Bad Weather Photography – Shooting in Stormy Conditions
Wednesday, August 20, 2008 @ 20:20
If you want to get that perfect shot of a bolt of lightning streaking across the sky, you will definitely need a very long shutter speed. In fact, many experienced photographers will only attempt to capture lightning by using the "bulb" option on their shutter speed, which, in other words, means just manually holding the shutter open for as long as it is necessary until the bolt of lightning moves across the sky. At that precise moment, the photographer will close the shutter, right after the lightning has passed, so that it is as bright as possible for the time it remains in the frame.
Some photographers love taking these types of photos so much that they've developed the reputation of being "storm chasers;" that is, trying to shoot in even more challenging weather conditions, such as in hurricanes and tornadoes. Of course, this type of photography can be very challenging, and should only be attempted by those who know what they are doing. Extreme storm photographs can bring in some very high prices on the open market, since they are the only opportunity most people have of viewing the awesome power of Mother Nature at its fiercest.
Storm photography not only requires the highest degree of skill on the part of the photographer, but it also requires some pretty durable equipment. The techniques will be far different from normal photography as well.
Of course, at the very least, you will need to have lens covers and cleaners that can be used to protect lenses, as well as clean them, quickly – right out in the field. Of course, you will also need a tripod for your camera since in some conditions it is wise to run for cover yourself, and just operate the camera remotely from a safe perch.
If you want to take photographs in bad weather, it is always wise to proceed slowly and carefully. Get the proper training and mentoring from someone far more experienced, and don't take any unnecessary chances with your expensive equipment, not to mention your life.
