Ok, we know you love taking those awesome storm photos, the ones with the lightning bolt crashing into the viewfinder that makes all your friends drool. We know this because we love to take these photos too! In fact if you haven’t noticed, they’re some of our favorite captures.
With the love for these photos acknowledged, we must take note of the behind the scenes risk we all endure when we take these amazing photos. You know what risk I’m talking about, that big one…it’s the fact that when we take these photos we risk being struck by lightning. Most of us stay far enough away to stay safe but sometimes storms move quickly and we all have been known to misjudge from time to time. Let’s face it, we’re totally nuts, every single one of us, and we love it!
So crazies, we’re going to give you the run down on how to stay safe when taking awesome photos of lightning strikes. Keep reading for 5 must know tips for staying safe in a storm.
1. Knowing the Distance Between Lightning and You
Light travels much faster than sound, so you will always see the flash of the lightning bolt(s) before you hear the clap of thunder. Here’s the important tidbit you’ll want to remember, the closer the sound of thunder is combined with seeing the lightning bolt, the closer that bolt is to you! Basically, the greater risk you have of being struck.
Many experts say that when the delay between the two is about 4 seconds long, you should start moving to a safer area to shoot.
2. Find a Safe Place
DO NOT take shots under a tree or any kind of pole. Those are basically lightning rods, so let’s just avoid that situation.
Second tidbit: Your car is actually considered a pretty safe place to be in a lightning storm, unless it has a soft top (like a convertible). We suggest taking shots through your car window. You can even install a clamp on the window which can be used as your tripod.
3. Urban Legends: Don’t Fall for Them
Many have told me that using a non-metallic tri-pod or even wearing thick rubber soled shoes will provide the safety I need in a lightning storm. This is simply not true. The average amount of electricity in a single 1,000 foot-long lightning bolt is one billion volts; I don’t think your sneakers are going to save the day!
4. Have Help Close By
Having someone around in the case of an emergency is always a god idea. CPR can definitely save your life if something were to go wrong while taking lightning photos. Often those who are struck do not survive due to the stoppage of breath or the heartbeat. Having a CPR buddy is never a bad idea. Plus, taking a friend with you on a shoot is always fun.
5. Have Patience!
We all want that amazing shot, but with lightening you need to have patience. How does this fit into a safety article? Well, we don’t want you pushing your luck. Sometimes a great lightning shot takes chasing multiple storms. Be patient, be safe and keep shooting! Happy trails fellow photo geeks!
