Night Light on the MulesNight Light on the Mules
©RGallucci Photography
www.rgallucci.com
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Shoot Date: July 13, 2020
Canon EOS 5D Mark III | EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM | f/5.6 | 45.0 sec | ISO 125

Last night's southern Arizona high desert monsoon storm seemed to want to hug the Arizona New / Mexico border.  Knowing that the most I was likely to capture was some vast landscapes punctuated by intermittent strikes, I managed my expectations down. It was still great to be outside, smelling the unique mesquite and dust infused storm scent while enjoying the outflow breeze that drifted across the San Pedro valley.

But when the storm suddenly shifted direction to track along the Mule Mountains, I began to get excited. As the bolts drew closer and more abundant, I began to hope that I might get a close strike. Checking the radar, I learned that while the large cell with the great lightning was traveling across the mountains, another that had not begun to fire, was almost overhead. The odds of getting hit went up considerably. This is not a situation you want to be in. The once gentle outflow breeze notched up to strong winds, and then I was surrounded by ominous clouds overhead.

Meanwhile, the storm over the mountains shifted slightly towards me. I was clearly in the danger zone! The feeling evoked, that I love and dread, of being in the danger zone intensified, and I realized I had to make a decision.  As usual, I foolishly held my ground. Some day I may pay for these choices, but not on this night.

What happened over the next 40 minutes was pure storm chaser nirvana. As the heavens unleashed their mighty fury across the valley, my camera recorded strike after strike. When the storm finally blew itself out, the tension in my muscles relaxed. The sense of stress relief and joy was palpable, and I was once again reminded why this addiction is one of my greatest joys. 

The bolt in this image is my favorite of the evening. It is also my favorite of the season, and it may be one of my top five favorites of all time. From the cloud formation above, to the strike framed by the downpour, to the way the beautiful mountain range behind was lit up, to the natural vignette it created, this shot has it all. 

He gives me great gifts of creation daily to witness and share. For that, I am humbled and grateful. 

I remain his scribe. 

Night Light on the Mules
©RGallucci Photography
www.rgallucci.com
FB: RGallucciPhotography
IG: RGallucci
Sharing permitted, please give credit. Use as a screen saver or background permitted if you let me know. Downloading to print expressly prohibited! Prints available by request.  
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Shoot Date: July 13, 2020
Canon EOS 5D Mark III | EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM | f/5.6 | 45.0 sec | ISO 125