What is an effective way to capture lightning on film

...and of course, a safe way.

The way that I have always done it, was to put the camera in film mode, then splice the images out later (I will try and remember to post some of these images after work today).

Is there a better way? (I have a Canon G10)

In manual exposure use the "BULB" mode for the shutter speed and set the f stop and ISO Speed to get the right exposure.

excellent, thank you! I will try that when the next storm rolls through here in Tokyo (and then will post some results)

Will Thompson said:

In manual exposure use the "BULB" mode for the shutter speed and set the f stop and ISO Speed to get the right exposure.

Click to expand...

Indeed, although motion blur from other elements may become an issue. Because of the unpredictability of lighting discharge, one might combine the long exposure technique with an automated exposure sequencing, e.g. with Canon's TC-80N3 Timer Remote Controller (for certain camera models).

However, the best solution for lightning photography is by using an optical flash trigger device.

And here are some more tips: http://www.weatherscapes.com/techniques.php?cat=lightning&page=lightning

Cheers,
Bart