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Old 08-25-2007, 12:47 PM
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NaturesPixel NaturesPixel is offline
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Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Aussie In Ontario
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Default How to Capture lightning, A mini how to.

Ok this is just a mini how to.. putting down what i learnt over the last few nights...

First things you will need..
  • Camera that can be set on Bulb (tho i admire those people like my auntie that can capture lighting with P&S cameras , If i can find the photo i have of hers ill post it )
  • Tripod
  • Remote/cable release
  • Raincoat/Umbrella
  • Big plastic garbage bag
Set you Aperture to f11/f16 and Shutter to Bulb with camera on tripod
set you lens to infinity its best to use a wide angle lens.. i use my 18-70mm be careful of your foreground... make sure your composition is pleasing...

Open up your shutter using your remote/cable i found out last night if i leave it open for a few seconds after the lighting strikes i get a pretty good shot dont leave your shutter long than 2 mins... if you havn't had a strike...

reset and start again...

the big plastic bag is to throw over the camera and tripod before you make a run for cover storms generally if moving fast will catch you unaware like they did to me last night...lol

my first attempt at this

with S. 35sec and A. set to f16 ISO 100



To night if it comes again.. ill go over to the grave yard next door to get away from our street lights... This is also just trial and error.. I will also post any findings I come across back here ^.^
I was quiet surprised how easy it is if the lightning is coming in hard and fast with plenty of opportunities
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Leisa

Nikon D80 | Sigma 50-500mm EX DG HSM | Sigma APO 70-300 | Sigma 50mm macro | Nikon 50mm 1.8 | Nikkor 18-70mm | Lensbaby 2.0 | SB-800 Speedlight | Black Macbook C2D
Little pixels from my world . Flickr

Last edited by NaturesPixel; 08-25-2007 at 12:54 PM.
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