There are few things more inspiring than photographs of powerful weather. A shot of a forming super cell or the frosting effects of a cold snap can evoke wonder, waves of fear, and everything in between. Whether it be a lightning strike on the Kansas planes or a white-out blizzard in Siberia, the raw power of nature can be condensed to a single moment, captured and displayed to be appreciated by everyone who sees it. Professional photographers run directly into life threatening situations expecting to catch the sky at its most furious temperaments.

Captured by Timothy Poulton. More pictures here.

Many of these venturers are patient hunters, sometimes waiting years for the perfect conditions that will produce the perfect photograph. Others are life-long devotees to the maniac craft of storm chasing, choosing to charge in, head first to allow us a glimpse of mother nature’s anger, face-to-face.

But neither of these extremes are necessary for the average photographer to enjoy the simple pleasure of capturing the sky’s natural beauty and form.

Here are some helpful blogs on photographing in different lights during different times of the day and in different conditions.

Cotton Cuolson is a contributing photographer to National Geographic summarizes the joy of weather photography in his article on pro weather tips:

“There’s nothing I like more than shooting in what you might call “real weather.” I always seem to be running out on the ship’s deck or onto the street in the rain, sleet, and wind when everyone else is running for cover. Why? Because I know from years of experience that this is when the light really gets dramatic and the skies might open up with shafts of sunlight and dramatic clouds, giving me the opportunity to create photos with emotion and energy. Wind, snow, rain, fog — I love all the weather elements.”

Captured by Nathan McCreery. More pictures here.

Seeing something as powerful as the changing sky helps us understand our place in the world and reminds us of how important and dangerous nature can be. So even if it’s just from your front porch or a brisk walk in the woods, get out there and snap some shots.