I should have done this earlier in the year, but I put together a gallery of lightning images for you shutterbugs. Keep an eye on the weather and have have a tripod handy. Clouds and landmarks can add dramatic interest, but being in the right place at the right time is important. Getting too close to lightning is not only dangerous, but often does not help the photo. Use common sense.
Matthew Fortner has been at The News & Observer since 2002. He has a passion for gadgets, cutting-edge technology and all things geek.