I require the inspiration and challenge of pursuing color filled scenics, and being able to combine them with nature's fastest phenomena is an exciting plus. I'm almost jaded these days though, because it seems that the most spectacular landscapes have already been exquisitely captured. I'm not saying they're not beautiful, just that I, like most people need to feel the spark of creativity from my photography. I'm in search of the right composition as I drive along a gravel road paralleling the storm. There's not a lot of time.
Thunderstorms are dynamic.
Their life cycle of cloud building, generating rain and lightning then dissipating can happen before you can find the right setting to take the photograph. Always photograph lightning from inside a vehicle or a house. You can shoot hand held or with a tripod from within a safe location. There are several great sources for lightning safety tips that I always adhere to. The image I'm searching for will provide a sense of place, non-intimidating, that will help complement the awesome spectacle of nature.