Abstract: The present invention relates generally to both a system and method for visually (e.g., via a video-based system or some other visual system) monitoring one or more objects where such objects are obscured by a high intensity light source such as a plasma, flame, or welding arc. In one embodiment, a system in accordance with the present invention comprises a digital camera, at least one light emitting diode (LED) light source, and at least one filter. In another embodiment, a system in accordance with the present invention comprises a digital camera, at least one light emitting diode (LED) light source, and at least one filter selected from a notch filter, a neutral density filter, or combinations thereof. Additionally, the system of the present invention can further include software designed to process, interpret and/or collect various data captured by the visual monitoring, or, imaging, system of the present invention.