Cloud-to-ground lightning (w-508-05)

In gallery: Photos of the month (2003)
Related photos: Lightning Lightning (2003) May 23, 2003

A brilliant lightning discharge jumps out of a New Mexico storm and strikes the desert floor. Although the months May and June see several small thunderstorms, the official monsoon of New Mexico doesn't start until early July.

Nikon FE with 50mm/1.4 Nikkor lens set at f/11; Fuji Provia 100F, approximately 10 seconds exposed during twilight. The photo was actually taken portrait style, due to the predictability of the lightning. Photo was taken near Socorro, New Mexico, USA.