mariemcgrath_3190
FollowTaken during a fantastic storm in southern New Mexico. This was a 30 second exposure.
Taken during a fantastic storm in southern New Mexico. This was a 30 second exposure.
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Awards
Action Award
Chatter Award
Runner Up in Crazy Storms Photo Contest
Zenith Award
Top Shot Award 21
Legendary Award
Featured
Contest Finalist in World At Night Photo Contest
Staff Winter Selection 2015
Peer Award
Superb Composition
Top Choice
Absolute Masterpiece
Outstanding Creativity
Magnificent Capture
Superior Skill
All Star
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Behind The Lens
Location
I took this photo from about 3/4 of the way up Picacho Peak on the outskirts of Las Cruces, New Mexico.Time
This was a fantastic night. The storm hit around 9pm and by 10:30 - 11 this is what I was getting! This was the best monsoon season in 17 years that I have lived here.Lighting
Lightning is the BEST kind of lighting! This is one photo, not a composite, so you have to be careful to not blow the sensor.Equipment
This was shot with a Canon Rebel T4i with a 28-300 lens, tripod and shutter extension. F8, ISO 200, 30 second exposure.Inspiration
Some people are scared of storms and run from them, stormy nights are my best nights. Storms are raw beauty, mesmerizing, energizing, and scary (when you get to close).Editing
One of the wonderful things about lightning is very little post processing is needed. I use Photoshop; all this photo needed was a little contrast and levels. This is one photo, not a composite, with 4 lightning bolts so it was a little hot before processing.In my camera bag
I always have my EOS 1Ds Mark III and my old Rebel as a back up along with a shutter extension, fisheye, and my 28-300 5.6 lens. I keep a tripod in the trunk.Feedback
Be patient and do not get to close to the storm, you can get struck. Try to stay out of the rain band and shoot into the storm.