Simulating Lightning

[Mike Finegan]

I would like to simulate lightning (thunderstorm) on a shoot this weekend and have been told the best rig is several atomic 3000.
Has anyone here done that? Or do you have other approaches?
Just looking to see actor appear to be in a thunderstorm with lightning flashes. Camera will never be pointed at the source of the light.
I would prefer not to have to use DMX controller, but just use Detonator and 3 lights. Posted in Martin forum, but may not be active enough to get a response.
I could use 3 photo flashes with manual trigger, but don't think it will be realistic enough.
All constructive input welcome.
Thanks in advance!!
Mike

Posted in Martin forum:
Does anyone know if you can use just a detonator and 3 Atomic 3000 to realistically simulate lightning (thunderstorm)?
I only see mention in the manual specific to DMX table - I am renting equipment and they don't provide DMX rentals (in LA).
Can someone tell me what components I might need and if I can set random delay so the 'trigger' causes the 3 lights to flash in sequence but with some variation?
I was hoping there would be a lighting note or example in the Martin documentation, but can't find any.

 

[Ethan Cooper]

I've seen it done with an arc welder up high. Just make sure the guy operating the welder has proper gear.

 

[Mike Finegan]

welding lightning

welding lightning

I've seen it done with an arc welder up high. Just make sure the guy operating the welder has proper gear.

I have done a variety of welding and guess if you just strike the arc at high current and immediately pull away you would get brief intense flash - never thought about lightning cause I always had mask / googles on.
But that has some safety concerns - cinders on people or flammables below and damage to eyes if people look at it too many times (I have sunburned my eyes welding - it hurts a lot for the next couple days
But next time I walk by construction site downtown I will be looking for the welders and thinking about lightning