Sweep Lightning

[Graham_of_Rainham]

We had a tropical storm one night, so typically I thought I would try to photograph the drama. I took some videos and still shots but then thought I would try a sweep panorama.....

Just after I started, there was a ground strike that knocked out all the power.

As shown the lights on the left are on, then there’s a streak of the lightning and the rest is taken in semi darkness.

I know that sweep panoramas are made up from just a small line of cells on the sensor, but was surprised by how well this is depicted.

I’m also quite proud of the way I carried on shooting as the flash and bang was simultaneous. We found out the next day that it destroyed a palapa on the beach less than 200 yards away.

[Ian]

I would change your D&P service, Graham - nasty fogging in that one!

Seriously, though - was it frightening? Sometimes lightning can come with some very loud thunder!

Ian

[Garry]

Never seen anything like it. Very interesting.

[Graham_of_Rainham]

I knew it was a close strike as the bang was instantaneous and VERY loud

I have seen several different “effects” made with sweep panorama photography, but have not seen lightning caught during the exposure of one.

I’d love to think its unique, but I very much doubt it

[Ian]

I've never seen this before.