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NEVER stand at ground zero during a lightning storm. It is one of the most important safety rules that a storm chaser need obey. And, it is one of the rules most often broken in the adrenalin rush of the chase and capture. I admit that I have crossed the line of shooting at a safe distance from a storm to being so close that electrocution was possible. I have even gone so far as to make a promise that this season I would not do so.

However, my promise did not include the possibility of a storm developing over my head as I focused on shooting a cell over the Mule Mountains, 10 miles away. That is what happened yesterday. I became aware of the danger when, in the periphery of my vision, I saw a brilliant flash of light acknowledged to by an almost immediate roar of thunder. Looking up, I realized that a cell had traveled over the top of the Huachucas and was now just overhead. My choices were simple - bug out or hold my ground. I cannot, in any way other than foolish indulgence, justify the decision to hold my ground. It has been a slow monsoon season for me, with many of the better storms missed due to work responsibilities. A look on Radarscope showed the storm quickly moving away from my location, so I repositioned my cameras and started shooting.

I cannot lie. It was glorious! Like a vampire who has not fed in too long, I greedily consumed the many shocks of lightning. Well knowing I needed to exhibit prudent restraint, I was unable to pull myself away. By the time the storm had moved to a safe distance had sated my gluttonous longing. I packed up my gear and retreat home. Walking through the door, I was overcome with the same weariness experienced after consuming too big a meal. The image review would have to wait for morning.

I have are many images to go through, but this is my favorite so far. The capture of simultaneous strikes traveling in opposite directions, like two gargoyles facing descending from the heavens to face off to battle, bewitched my imagination. I hope it does the same for you.

I am blessed to witness to the glory of His creation. I remain His scribe.

The Dance 2019
©RGallucci Photography
www.rgallucci.com

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Shoot date: August 3, 2019
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
1.0 sec at f/8.0 Bias:0 EV
Lens: EF16-35mm f/4L IS USM
ISO: 50