In this engaging conversation, Lori Grace Bailey and Donna Ruthruff explore the world of storm chasing and photography, particularly focusing on the beauty and challenges of capturing lightning in the Arizona monsoon. They discuss their personal journeys, the emotional connections to storm chasing, and the importance of community and perseverance in this unique pursuit. Donna shares her experiences, including the Bighorn fire, and offers advice for newcomers to the storm chasing community. The conversation highlights the passion that drives storm chasers and the beauty found in nature's storms.

takeaways

• Storm chasing is a unique blend of passion and adventure.
• The Arizona monsoon offers incredible opportunities for lightning photography.
• Community support is vital for storm chasers, especially for newcomers.
• Every storm chaser faces challenges and setbacks, but perseverance is key.
• Capturing lightning requires both skill and the right equipment.
• The emotional connection to nature can be healing and transformative.
• Monsoon Con is a great way to connect with fellow storm chasers.
• It's never too late to pursue a new passion, regardless of age.
• Storm chasing can be a solitary or communal experience, depending on personal preference.
• The beauty of nature can be found in both storms and sunsets.

keywords

storm chasing, photography, lightning, Arizona monsoon, community, perseverance, Bighorn fire, Monsoon Con, emotional connection, advice for beginners

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Storm Chasing and Photography

03:01
The Journey of a Storm Photographer

05:56
The Impact of the Monsoon Season

08:56
The Bighorn Fire Experience

11:53
Finding Community in Storm Chasing

14:57
Learning and Growing as a Photographer

17:53
The Thrill of Adventure and Risk

21:09
The Healing Power of Nature and Storms

29:47
The Beauty of the Desert at Sunset

31:51
Finding Perspective Through Storm Chasing

32:33
The Reality of Storm Chasing: Triumphs and Defeats

34:49
Perseverance in the Face of Challenges

36:03
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Techniques and Experiences

51:24
Overcoming Setbacks in the Journey of Storm Chasing

55:42
The Journey of a Storm Chaser

01:01:09
Passion for Lightning and Tornadoes

01:03:30
Advice for New Storm Chasers

01:06:35
Empowering Women in Storm Chasing

01:14:29
Overcoming Challenges in Pursuit of Passion

In Episode 6, I interview Bolt Hunter developer Jeff Boyce about this exciting new tool for storm chasers and photographers. Jeff is releasing the Bolt Hunter ( bolthunter.io ) via Kickstarter, and he shares how this passion project of his was designed and tested by storm chasers over many seasons to help them capture more lightning photos than ever before.

keywords

lightning photography, storm chasing, Bolt Hunter, photography equipment, weather photography, monsoon storms, photography tips, storm photography community, lightning capture technology, Jeff Boyce

summary

In this episode of the Storm Before the Calm podcast, host Lori Grace Bailey interviews lightning photographer Jeff Boyce about his innovative device, the Bolt Hunter, designed to capture lightning strikes more effectively. They discuss the challenges faced by storm chasers, the technical aspects of the Bolt Hunter, and the importance of community feedback in its development. Jeff shares insights on safety while storm chasing, the future of the device, and the excitement surrounding its upcoming launch.

takeaways

• Jeff Boyce has been storm chasing for over 15 years.
• The Bolt Hunter device aims to improve lightning photography.
• Common issues in lightning photography include missed shots and equipment failures.
• User feedback is crucial for improving photography devices.
• Pre-capture technology has limitations in capturing lightning.
• Safety is paramount when storm chasing; staying inside a vehicle is recommended.
• The storm photography community is supportive and collaborative.
• The Bolt Hunter is designed specifically for lightning, unlike other triggers.
• The device will be available for backing on Kickstarter soon.
• Jeff emphasizes the importance of location in capturing great storm shots.

titles

• Capturing Lightning: The Bolt Hunter Revolution
• Overcoming Challenges in Lightning Photography

Sound Bites

• "I broke your device."
• "This isn't just another trigger."
• "It's all about location."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Lightning Photography and New Innovations

04:07
Challenges in Lightning Photography

10:56
Introducing the Bolt Hunter Device

15:29
Understanding Lightning and Trigger Technology

20:56
The Importance of Shutter Lag

26:34
Real-World Testing and Feedback

29:17
Chasing Haboobs: A Surprising Encounter

30:36
The Science of Lightning Photography

31:28
Pre-Capture Technology: A Game Changer?

35:26
Innovations in Camera Gear: The Evolution of Bolt Hunter

38:26
Designing for Durability: The Importance of Tough Gear

39:03
Battery Life and Charging Solutions for Photographers

46:39
The Excitement of New Technology in Storm Chasing

46:58
The Unique Features of the Bolt Hunter Trigger

49:00
The Importance of Reliability in Storm Photography

49:40
Testing the Device in Monsoon Conditions

51:13
Community Feedback and Improvement

52:58
The Role of Passion in Storm Chasing

55:02
Availability and Launch Plans for the Device

56:19
Innovative Features of the Bolt Hunter

59:41
Safety Considerations for Storm Chasers

01:01:15
The Personal Journey of a Storm Chaser

Storm Chaser and OU Meteorology Student Conner Stines shares about his passion for weather and recaps his experience of being directly impacted by the Valley View, Texas tornado on May 25, 2024.

Summary
In this episode of the Storm Before the Calm podcast, host Lori Grace Bailey interviews Connor Stines, a young meteorology student and storm chaser. They discuss Connor's journey into meteorology, his experiences with tornadoes, and a harrowing incident where he and his sister were caught in a tornado while seeking shelter. The conversation delves into the emotional aftermath of the event, the importance of safety in storm chasing, and Connor's aspirations for the future. Throughout the episode, they explore the beauty and danger of storms, the personal growth that comes from chasing them, and the impact of severe weather on communities.

Takeaways

Connor's passion for storms began in childhood.
He switched from nursing to meteorology after a tornado experience.
Safety is paramount when storm chasing.
The tornado incident was a life-changing experience for Connor and his sister.
There were no serious injuries during the tornado incident, thanks to quick thinking.
Connor feels a mix of guilt and gratitude after the tornado incident.
The impact of tornadoes on communities is profound and tragic.
Connor is interested in studying historical perspectives on weather phenomena.
He aims to contribute to meteorology through research and education.
The importance of personal growth and resilience in the face of adversity.
titles
Chasing Storms: A Journey into Meteorology
Caught in the Storm: A Tornado Experience
Sound Bites

"I definitely do carry baggage with that."
"I feel like we were meant to be there."

Summary

In this conversation, Lori Grace Bailey interviews Jennifer Brindley Ubl, a professional studio portrait photographer and well-known storm chaser. They discuss Jennifer's journey into storm chasing, her passion for photography, and the challenges and burnout that can come with the pursuit. Jennifer shares her experiences and insights, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and giving oneself permission to take breaks and pursue other interests. They also touch on the need for open conversations about the realities and struggles of storm chasing. In this part of the conversation, Jennifer and Lori discuss their love for storm chasing and their favorite tornado videos. They also touch on the topic of safety in storm chasing and the need for responsible chasing practices. Jennifer shares that she is not a thrill seeker and is more interested in capturing the beauty and awe of tornadoes. They also talk about the impact of the El Reno tornado and the importance of learning from past mistakes. They end the conversation by sharing prints they have purchased from other photographers and celebrating the work of fellow storm chasers. In this conversation, Jennifer Brindley Ubl and Lori Grace discuss their experiences with storm chasing and the passion that drives them. They talk about the number of tornadoes they have seen and the different approaches to counting them. They also discuss the importance of finding a balance between chasing storms and taking care of other aspects of life. Jennifer shares her favorite tornado experiences and offers advice for new storm chasers. They also mention their involvement as extras in the upcoming movie 'Twisters' and their excitement for its release. Overall, the conversation highlights the love for storm chasing and the importance of finding joy and peace in life.

Keywords

storm chasing, photography, passion, burnout, self-reflection, challenges, storm chasing, tornado videos, safety, responsible chasing, El Reno tornado, beauty of tornadoes, learning from mistakes, prints from other photographers, celebrating fellow storm chasers, storm chasing, tornadoes, passion, balance, movie 'Twisters', advice

Takeaways

• Storm chasing can be a passion that lasts for years, but it's important to acknowledge and address burnout when it arises.
• Taking breaks and pursuing other interests can help maintain passion and prevent burnout in storm chasing.
• Failures and challenges in storm chasing are opportunities for growth and learning.
• Open conversations about the realities and struggles of storm chasing are important for fostering understanding and support within the community. Storm chasing is a thrilling activity that allows people to capture the beauty and awe of tornadoes.
• Safety should always be a top priority in storm chasing, and it is important to learn from past mistakes and practice responsible chasing.
• Not all storm chasers are thrill seekers, and some are more interested in capturing the spectacle and beauty of storms.
• The El Reno tornado was a turning point in storm chasing, and it highlighted the need for increased awareness and caution.
• It is important to celebrate and support the work of fellow storm chasers and photographers. Storm chasing is a passion that drives many people, and the number of tornadoes seen can vary among individuals.
• Finding a balance between storm chasing and other aspects of life, such as paying bills and taking care of mental health, is important.
• It's okay to take breaks from storm chasing and focus on other priorities.
• Talking to loved ones and trusted individuals can provide clarity and support during times of uncertainty or burnout.
• There are many resources available for learning about storm chasing, such as Girls Who Chase, Skip Talbot's educational videos, and TitanU.
• Being

In this conversation, Storm Chaser, Engineer and Educator Seth Price discusses his experience with storm chasing and his involvement in a high school storm chasing program. He shares the impact of storm chasing on high school students and the challenges of coordinating trips. Seth also talks about his choice of vehicle for storm chasing and the use of ham radio in communication. He reflects on the changes in storm chasing technology over the years. This conversation covers the importance of storm chasing tools, the upside and downside of storm chasing tools, the experience of storm chasing, early interest in weather and storm chasing, childhood fascination with storms, choosing a career path, personal setbacks and motivation, chasing in different regions, challenges of chasing in wooded areas, memorable chasing experiences, personal setbacks and pursuing storm chasing, challenges in the field of meteorology, and teaching and inspiring students. In this conversation, Seth Price shares his experiences as a storm chaser and the impact it has had on his personal growth. He discusses the educational opportunities he provides to students through field trips and the importance of exposing them to real-life experiences. Seth also reflects on how storm chasing has changed his perspective on fear of missing out and the concept of success. He emphasizes the value of embracing the journey and finding joy in the process rather than focusing solely on the end result. Seth also addresses imposter syndrome and the importance of celebrating personal accomplishments. He concludes by discussing his bucket list and the continuous learning that comes with storm chasing.

Takeaways

• Storm chasing can have a profound impact on high school students, exposing them to new experiences and broadening their horizons.
• Choosing the right vehicle for storm chasing is important, considering factors such as trunk space, power supply, and durability.
• Ham radio can be a valuable tool for communication during storm chasing, allowing for local and long-distance communication.
• Advancements in technology have greatly enhanced the capabilities of storm chasers, providing real-time radar and satellite data. Storm chasing tools have become essential for making informed decisions and staying safe during storm chasing.
• While storm chasing tools provide valuable information, it is important to understand their limitations and not rely solely on technology.
• The experience of storm chasing is a combination of knowledge, intuition, and learning from past experiences.
• Early interest in weather and storms can shape a person's passion for storm chasing.
• Personal setbacks can sometimes lead to new opportunities and a change in career path.
• Chasing storms in different regions presents unique challenges and considerations.
• Chasing storms in wooded areas can be particularly challenging due to limited visibility and road networks.
• Memorable chasing experiences include witnessing significant tornadoes and experiencing successful chase days.
• Personal setbacks can sometimes hinder the pursuit of storm chasing, but resilience and adaptability are key.
• The field of meteorology can be competitive, and job opportunities may require perseverance and flexibility.
• Teaching and inspiring students about storm chasing can broaden their horizons and expose them to new experiences. Field trips and real-life experiences can provide valuable educational opportunities for students.
• Storm chasing can lead to personal growth and a shift in perspective.
• Embracing the journey and finding joy in the process is more important than focusing solely on the end result.
• Imposter syndrome can be overcome by recognizing and celebrating personal accomplishments.
• Continuous learning and exploration are key components of storm chasing.

Summary

In this podcast episode, Lori Grace Bailey discusses her experience with lightning capturing devices for photographers. She talks about the frustration of trying to capture lightning with DSLR or mirrorless cameras and shares her verdict on three devices: the Lightning Trigger LT4, the Lightning Bug Plus from MK Controls, and the MIOPS Lightning Trigger. She praises the Lightning Bug Plus for its reliability and success rate in capturing daytime lightning shots. She also mentions the responsiveness of the MK Controls company. Overall, she recommends the Lightning Bug Plus as the top choice for lightning capturing.

Takeaways

• Capturing lightning with DSLR or mirrorless cameras can be frustrating without the right devices.
• The Lightning Bug Plus from MK Controls is highly recommended for its reliability and success rate in capturing daytime lightning shots.
• The Lightning Trigger LT4 is also a good option, but it has some drawbacks such as easily broken hot shoe connectors.
• The MIOPS Lightning Trigger is another device to consider, but it may have a lower success rate compared to the other two.
• It's important to communicate with the device manufacturers if you're experiencing issues to see if they can help resolve them.
• Using intervalometer mode and longer shutter speeds can be effective for capturing lightning during the evening or sunset hours.
• ND filters can be used to capture lightning during the daytime, but it's not recommended to use very dark filters.
• Lori Grace Bailey is passionate about capturing lightning and encourages others to pursue their interests in extreme weather and sports.

Sound Bites

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Storm Season

01:00
Frustrations of Capturing Lightning

06:04
The Real Lightning Trigger

11:40
Review of Lightning Bug Plus

16:44
Miops

22:22
Review of Strike Finder Two

25:00
MK Controls Lightning Bug Plus as the Top Choice

28:03
Using Lightning Capturing Devices during the Daytime

29:58
Conclusion and Invitation

n this conversation, storm chaser Hunter Fowkes shares his journey and passion for storm chasing. He discusses his early fascination with weather, particularly dust storms and monsoons in Arizona. Hunter explains how his love for storms grew and eventually led him to become a storm chaser. He also opens up about the challenges of constantly moving and maintaining friendships, and how storm chasing became a source of purpose and stability in his life. Hunter also discusses the emotional impact of storm chasing and the responsibility he feels to help others in severe weather situations. In this part of the conversation, Hunter Fowkes discusses the role of faith and family in grounding him and shaping his values. He emphasizes the importance of blending science and religion to find purpose and make a positive impact on the world. Hunter also shares his most exhilarating moment of storm chasing, where he witnessed a massive tornado up close. He talks about upcoming projects and his excitement for life after graduation. Lastly, he highlights the support he receives from his partner, Lucia, and the ways they navigate his dangerous passion together. In this conversation, Hunter Fowkes shares his experiences and insights as a storm chaser. He discusses his passion for storm chasing, the different approaches to chasing storms, and his favorite weather phenomenon. Hunter also emphasizes the importance of appreciating loved ones and the feeling of relief when conquering a challenge. The conversation concludes with a discussion on sunrise vs sunset and Hunter's top item on his bucket list.

Takeaways
Early experiences with dust storms and monsoons in Arizona sparked Hunter's fascination with weather.
Moving frequently as a child made it challenging for Hunter to maintain friendships, but storm chasing became a constant source of purpose and stability in his life.
Hunter emphasizes the importance of pursuing what brings you joy and not letting others' opinions deter you.
Storm chasing can have an emotional impact, and storm chasers often grapple with the responsibility of helping others in severe weather situations. Appreciate and cherish your loved ones.
There are different approaches to storm chasing, and each person has their own preferences.
Conquering a challenge brings a feeling of relief and satisfaction.
Sunrise and sunset offer different experiences and beauty.



Hunter Fowkes is a storm chaser and soon to be a meteorologist. He currently lives in Ames, Iowa finishing his Bachelor's degree in Meteorology from Iowa State University in 2024. He is married to his wife, Lucia Fowkes, and have been married for 5 years in September. He has lived across much of the western/central US including Arizona, Colorado, Texas, Nevada, Idaho, and Iowa. His greatest passion stemmed from watching dust storms and monsoons in Arizona. This led to a hobby of chasing storms which began in 2009 where, with his family, he saw his first tornado, a EF-1 tornado in northeast Iowa. 15 storm seasons have passed and he has chased well over 100 tornadoes and hundreds of other storms. He had the opportunity to run a couple successful private chase tours over the 2022 and 2023 seasons. His interests expanded towards chasing a hurricane for the first time in 2020 (Hurricane Delta) and is looking to chase storms for the rest of his life. He enjoys photographing not only storms and tornadoes but also capturing the northern lights for 2 years across mid-latitudes in the US. He enjoys spending time outside and going on adventure whether it be mountain biking, hiking, skiing, etc. In his time not spent in college or storm chasing, he is involved in his church, and involved in the local AMS (American Meteorological Society) and Center Iowa NWA chapters.