I’ve been obsessed with hot air balloon photography ever since my first festival visit back in December. There’s something magical about capturing those colorful giants floating gracefully against the sky that keeps me coming back year after year. After shooting at countless festivals and spending thousands of hours perfecting my technique, I’ve discovered that amazing balloon photography isn’t just about having expensive gear—it’s about knowing the right techniques, timing, and creative approaches.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to capture your first balloon festival or an experienced photographer wanting to elevate your aerial photography game, these 10 tips will transform your hot air balloon photos from good to absolutely breathtaking. I’ve learned these lessons the hard way—through early mornings, changing weather conditions, and countless missed shots—so you don’t have to.
Let me share with you the exact techniques I use to capture those stunning balloon images that make people stop scrolling and take notice. From gear selection to post-processing magic, these are the secrets that will make your balloon photography stand out in 2025.
Tip 1: Master Your Gear Selection
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen photographers show up at balloon festivals with the wrong gear and miss incredible shots. After years of trial and error, I’ve discovered that having the right equipment is half the battle in hot air balloon photography.
Essential Camera Setup: I always bring at least two camera bodies to balloon festivals. My main setup includes a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls—this gives me the flexibility to adjust settings quickly as lighting conditions change. I learned this lesson the hard way when my primary camera failed during a mass ascension, and I missed dozens of incredible shots.
Lens Selection Strategy: For balloon photography, I rely on three key lenses that cover every possible scenario:
- Wide-angle lens (16-35mm): Perfect for capturing the grandeur of balloon festivals and expansive sky scenes. I use this when I want to include multiple balloons in the frame or capture the inflation process up close.
- Standard zoom (24-70mm): My workhorse lens that handles about 60% of my balloon shots. It’s versatile enough for most situations and gives me the flexibility to compose quickly without changing lenses.
- Telephoto zoom (70-200mm or longer): Essential for capturing details and compressing distant balloons. I’ve found that a 70-300mm gives me even more reach for those shots where balloons are far across the field.
Must-Have Accessories: I never shoot balloon festivals without these essentials:
- A polarizing filter to make colors pop and reduce glare
- Extra batteries and memory cards (I always bring at least double what I think I’ll need)
- A monopod for stability during low-light conditions
- A camera bag that allows quick access to gear
Pro Tip: I discovered that using a photo vest or camera sling system is a game-changer at balloon festivals. It lets me carry two cameras comfortably and switch between them instantly when the action heats up.
Tip 2: Arrive Early and Scout Your Location
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from shooting dozens of balloon festivals, it’s that the early bird truly does get the best shots. I make it a point to arrive at least 2-3 hours before the scheduled launch time, and let me tell you—it’s made all the difference in my photography.
Why Early Arrival Matters: The best balloon photography opportunities often happen before most photographers even arrive. I’ve captured some of my most stunning images during the setup and inflation process when the light is soft and the crews are preparing the balloons. These behind-the-scenes shots tell a story that most people miss entirely.
Location Scouting Strategy: When I arrive at a new festival location, I immediately start scouting for the best vantage points. Here’s my systematic approach:
- Walk the entire launch field: I take at least 30 minutes to walk around the perimeter, noting where the sun will rise and how it will illuminate the balloons during launch.
- Identify foreground elements: I look for interesting foreground elements that can add depth to my shots—trees, buildings, water features, or even crowd barriers can work well.
- Check wind direction: I talk to the ground crews or officials to understand the expected wind direction. This helps me predict where the balloons will drift and position myself accordingly.
- Find elevated positions: I look for any elevated areas—hills, bleachers, or even the roof of my car (safely, of course)—that can give me a better perspective.
My Pre-Shot Checklist: Before the first balloon even starts inflating, I’ve already:
- Tested my camera settings in the available light
- Identified my primary and backup shooting positions
- Checked the weather forecast one last time
- Introduced myself to festival officials (sometimes this leads to special access!)
- Positioned my gear for quick access
Real-Life Example: At the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta last year, I arrived at 4:30 AM for a 6:00 AM launch. While most photographers were still in their cars, I captured incredible shots of the “Dawn Patrol” balloons silhouetted against the pre-dawn sky. Those images ended up being some of my best-selling shots of the year.
Tip 3: Perfect Your Camera Settings
I’ll be honest—when I first started shooting hot air balloons, I relied heavily on auto mode and hoped for the best. My results were… inconsistent, to say the least. After countless festivals and thousands of shots, I’ve developed a foolproof approach to camera settings that consistently delivers stunning results.
The Golden Settings for Balloon Photography: Here are the exact settings I use for 90% of my balloon shots:
Aperture: I typically shoot between f/8 and f/11 for balloon photography. This sweet spot gives me enough depth of field to keep both the balloon and background elements sharp, while still allowing enough light for fast shutter speeds. When I’m shooting balloons against a plain sky, I might open up to f/5.6 to slightly blur the background and make the balloon pop.
Shutter Speed: This is where many photographers get it wrong. Balloons move faster than you think, especially during launch and landing. I never shoot below 1/250 second, and for action shots like launches or when there’s wind, I bump it up to 1/500 or even 1/1000 second. I learned this lesson when I captured a perfect composition of a balloon launch, only to find it slightly blurred because I shot at 1/125 second.
ISO Management: I start with ISO 100-200 during bright conditions and gradually increase it as light fades. During early morning launches, I’m often at ISO 800-1600. Modern cameras handle higher ISOs remarkably well, so don’t be afraid to push it to 3200 if needed—better to have a slightly noisy shot than a blurry one.
Shooting Mode: I shoot exclusively in manual mode for balloon photography. It gives me complete control over the exposure, which is crucial when dealing with rapidly changing light conditions. However, if you’re not comfortable with manual yet, aperture priority mode can work well—just keep an eye on your shutter speed.
White Balance: I usually set my white balance to “Daylight” or “Cloudy” depending on conditions, but I shoot in RAW so I can fine-tune it later. Auto white balance can get confused by the colorful balloons and changing light, so I prefer to set it manually.
My Go-To Settings by Time of Day:
- Pre-dawn/Dawn: ISO 800-1600, f/8, 1/250-1/500 sec
- Golden Hour: ISO 200-400, f/8-f/11, 1/250-1/500 sec
- Midday: ISO 100-200, f/8-f/11, 1/500-1/1000 sec
- Evening Glow: ISO 800-1600, f/4-f/5.6, 1/60-1/125 sec (with tripod)
Pro Tip: I use exposure compensation (+/- 1 stop) to slightly underexpose my shots. This makes the balloon colors more vibrant and prevents the bright sky from blowing out. It’s easier to recover shadows in post-processing than it is to fix blown-out highlights.
Tip 4: Master Composition Techniques
I used to think that pointing my camera at a colorful balloon was enough to get a great shot. Boy, was I wrong! After studying composition principles and analyzing thousands of balloon photos, I’ve discovered that intentional composition is what separates good balloon photography from great balloon photography.
The Rule of Thirds is Your Best Friend: I place balloons along the rule of thirds lines in about 80% of my shots. Instead of centering every balloon, I position it at the intersection points for a more dynamic composition. When shooting multiple balloons, I use the rule of thirds to create balance and visual flow across the frame.
Include Foreground Elements for Depth: One of my favorite techniques is to include interesting foreground elements that add context and depth to balloon shots. This could be:
- Trees or buildings framing the balloon
- Festival attendees looking up at the balloons
- Other balloons in the distance creating layers
- Launch equipment or crew members
I captured one of my award-winning shots by positioning myself so that a line of trees framed a single balloon ascending at sunrise. The foreground elements made the image much more compelling than a simple balloon-in-sky shot.
Shoot from Unique Angles: I’m always looking for unusual perspectives that most photographers miss. Some of my favorite angles include:
- Low angle: Shooting up from ground level to make balloons appear larger than life
- High angle: Shooting down from hills or elevated positions
- Dutch tilt: Angling the camera for a dynamic, unconventional look
- Through objects: Shooting through trees, fences, or other elements for framing
Leading Lines and Patterns: I actively look for leading lines that draw the viewer’s eye to the balloon. This could be roads, fences, rivers, or even lines of people. At festivals, I also look for patterns in the balloon arrangements—rows of balloons being inflated, geometric shapes formed by multiple balloons, or repeating colors and designs.
The Power of Negative Space: Sometimes, less is more. I’ve discovered that giving balloons room to breathe in the frame creates powerful, minimalist images. A single small balloon in a vast sky can be incredibly striking, especially when the balloon is positioned according to the rule of thirds.
My Composition Checklist: Before pressing the shutter, I ask myself:
- Where is the balloon positioned in the frame?
- What foreground or background elements add interest?
- Are there leading lines drawing attention to the balloon?
- Is the horizon level (unless I’m intentionally tilting)?
- Does the composition tell a story or evoke emotion?
Real-Life Success Story: At a festival last year, I noticed a row of colorful balloons being inflated in perfect alignment. Instead of shooting them straight on, I positioned myself at an angle to create diagonal leading lines that drew the viewer’s eye through the frame. That composition ended up winning a local photography competition and taught me the power of intentional composition.
Tip 5: Capture the Inflation Process
I’ll let you in on a little secret: some of the most dramatic and colorful balloon photography happens before the balloons even leave the ground. The inflation process is a goldmine of photographic opportunities that most photographers completely overlook.
Why Inflation Shots are Magical: There’s something incredibly photogenic about watching a massive balloon transform from a colorful pile of fabric on the ground to a majestic airborne vessel. The process involves intense colors, dramatic lighting, and human elements that tell a complete story.
The Two Phases of Inflation: I’ve learned that balloon inflation happens in two distinct phases, each offering unique photographic opportunities:
Phase 1: Cold Inflation This is when crews use large fans to fill the balloon with ambient air. During this phase:
- The balloon lies on its side, creating interesting shapes and angles
- Crew members work together, adding human interest
- The fabric shows beautiful textures and patterns
- You can get incredibly close for detail shots
Phase 2: Hot Inflation This is when the burners fire up to heat the air inside the balloon. This phase offers:
- Dramatic flame shots against the colorful fabric
- The balloon slowly rising to an upright position
- Silhouette opportunities against the dawn sky
- Intense colors as the fabric glows from within
My Inflation Photography Strategy: Here’s exactly how I approach shooting the inflation process:
- Circle the Balloon: I move around each balloon to find the best angle, looking for interesting backgrounds and lighting.
- Shoot Details First: I start with close-up shots of the fabric patterns, crew members working, and equipment details.
- Capture the Process: I use burst mode to capture the sequence of the balloon rising from horizontal to vertical.
- Include Human Elements: I make sure to include the crew members in my shots—they add scale and tell the story of the teamwork involved.
- Look for Unique Perspectives: I shoot from low angles, through the basket, or even from inside partially inflated balloons (when safe and permitted).
Camera Settings for Inflation Shots: During inflation, I adjust my settings to capture the dynamic range of the scene:
- Aperture: f/8-f/11 for maximum depth of field
- Shutter Speed: 1/250-1/500 second to freeze action
- ISO: 400-800 (adjusting for available light)
- Focus: Continuous autofocus to track moving elements
Safety First: I always maintain a safe distance from the inflation process. Balloon crews are focused on their work, and getting too close can be dangerous. I’ve found that a respectful distance of 20-30 feet usually gives me the best perspective while keeping everyone safe.
My Favorite Inflation Shot: Last year, I captured an incredible shot during the hot inflation phase. The sun was rising behind the balloon, creating a silhouette effect, while the burner flames illuminated the colorful fabric from within. The combination of the dark silhouette, vibrant colors, and dramatic flames made for one of my most popular images ever.
Tip 6: Master Different Lighting Conditions
I used to think that bright, sunny days were best for balloon photography. I couldn’t have been more wrong! After shooting balloons in every possible lighting condition, I’ve discovered that each type of light offers unique opportunities for stunning images.
Golden Hour Magic: The hour after sunrise and before sunset is absolute gold for balloon photography. Here’s why I love shooting during these times:
- Soft, directional light creates beautiful shadows and highlights on the balloon fabric
- Warm color tones make the balloons look even more vibrant
- Long shadows add depth and dimension to the scene
- Dramatic skies often provide stunning backgrounds
During golden hour, I slightly underexpose my shots by about 1 stop to make the colors really pop. I also use a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and reduce glare on the balloon fabric.
Blue Hour Opportunities: The period just before sunrise and after sunset offers completely different creative possibilities:
- Cool, moody tones create a different emotional feel
- City lights can add interesting elements to urban balloon festivals
- Long exposure possibilities for creative motion blur effects
- Silhouette opportunities against the bright sky
For blue hour shooting, I use a tripod and longer exposures (1/30 second or slower). I also increase my ISO to 800-1600 to maintain proper exposure.
Overcast Day Surprises: Don’t pack up your camera when clouds roll in! Overcast conditions offer unique advantages:
- Soft, even light eliminates harsh shadows and highlights
- Colors appear more saturated without direct sunlight
- No blown-out highlights on white or light-colored balloon sections
- Consistent lighting makes exposure easier to manage
On overcast days, I increase my exposure by about +0.5 stops to compensate for the flat light and keep colors vibrant.
Backlighting Drama: Shooting with the sun behind the balloon creates incredible silhouette effects and rim lighting. This technique works especially well during sunrise and sunset:
- Silhouettes emphasize the balloon’s distinctive shape
- Rim lighting creates a glowing edge around the balloon
- Dramatic skies provide stunning backgrounds
- Creative flare opportunities can add artistic elements
For backlit shots, I meter for the brightest part of the sky and let the balloon go dark, creating the silhouette effect. I sometimes use a lens hood to prevent excessive flare.
Night Glow Photography: Many balloon festivals feature “night glows” where tethered balloons are illuminated from within. These events offer completely unique photographic opportunities:
- Internal illumination creates a lantern-like effect
- Crowd reactions add human interest and scale
- Long exposure possibilities for creative light painting
- Colorful patterns stand out against the dark sky
For night glows, I use:
- Tripod for stability during long exposures
- ISO 800-1600 to capture enough light
- Aperture f/4-f/5.6 to balance depth of field and light gathering
- Shutter speeds 1/15-1/60 second (adjusting based on conditions)
My Lighting Strategy: I now check the weather forecast and sun times before every balloon festival, planning my shooting schedule around the optimal lighting conditions. I’ve found that having a lighting plan helps me make the most of every photographic opportunity.
Tip 7: Try Photography FROM the Balloon
I’ll admit it—I was terrified the first time I took a camera up in a hot air balloon. The idea of being hundreds of feet in the air with expensive equipment made me nervous, but it turned out to be one of the most incredible photography experiences of my life. Photography from a balloon offers a completely different perspective that you simply cannot get from the ground.
Preparing for Aerial Photography: Before you even step into the basket, there are crucial preparations to make:
Gear Selection: I’ve learned that less is more when shooting from a balloon. My aerial photography kit includes:
- One camera body (I leave the second on the ground to save weight and space)
- A versatile zoom lens (24-70mm or 28-300mm works best)
- Extra battery and memory cards (kept in a secure pocket)
- Camera strap (worn around my neck at all times)
Safety First: The pilot’s instructions are law when you’re in the basket. I always:
- Listen carefully to the safety briefing
- Secure my camera with a neck strap at all times
- Keep equipment away from the basket edges
- Follow the pilot’s directions about when it’s safe to shoot
Shooting Techniques from the Air: Photography from a moving balloon requires different techniques than ground-based shooting:
Composition from Above: The aerial perspective completely changes how I approach composition:
- Look for patterns in the landscape below
- Include the basket in some shots for scale and context
- Shoot both horizontally and vertically for variety
- Use the balloon’s shadow as an interesting compositional element
Camera Settings for Aerial Shots: The conditions change rapidly when you’re airborne, so I adjust my settings accordingly:
- Shutter Speed: 1/500 second or faster to counteract movement
- Aperture: f/8-f/11 for good depth of field
- ISO: 200-400 (adjusting for light conditions)
- Focus Mode: Continuous autofocus to handle movement
Unique Aerial Opportunities: Being in the balloon opens up photographic possibilities you simply can’t get from the ground:
Other Balloons in Flight: I love capturing other balloons from the air—they create incredible scale and perspective shots. The sight of dozens of balloons floating below you is absolutely breathtaking.
Landscape Perspectives: The aerial view transforms familiar landscapes into abstract patterns. I look for:
- Interesting geometric shapes in fields and roads
- Water features that reflect the sky
- Urban landscapes with their grid patterns
- Mountain ranges showing their true scale
Sunrise and Sunset Magic: If you’re airborne during golden hour, the lighting is absolutely incredible. The way the light hits the landscape and other balloons creates images that are simply impossible to capture from the ground.
My Aerial Photography Experience: During a balloon festival in Cappadocia, Turkey, I had the opportunity to shoot from a balloon at sunrise. The combination of the other balloons, the unique rock formations below, and the perfect golden light created some of the most memorable images of my career. The experience taught me that sometimes you need to step out of your comfort zone (literally, in this case) to capture truly unique photographs.
Post-Flight Considerations: After landing, I immediately:
- Back up my images to a second device
- Check my equipment for any damage
- Review my shots while the experience is fresh
- Note what worked well and what I’d change next time
Photography from a balloon is a completely different challenge, but the unique perspective and incredible images make it absolutely worth the effort.
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Tip 8: Capture Action and Movement
I used to think hot air balloons were slow, gentle subjects that were easy to photograph. I couldn’t have been more wrong! Balloons can move surprisingly quickly, especially during launch, landing, and when caught in wind currents. Learning to capture this action and movement has taken my balloon photography to a whole new level.
Freezing the Action: When I want to freeze balloon movement completely, I use specific techniques:
Fast Shutter Speeds: I never shoot below 1/500 second when trying to freeze action, and for fast-moving situations, I bump it up to 1/1000 or even 1/2000 second. This is especially important during:
- Launch sequences when balloons rise quickly
- Wind conditions when balloons are moving rapidly
- Landing approaches when movement can be unpredictable
- Festival competitions when balloons perform maneuvers
Burst Mode is Your Friend: I’ve learned that single shots often miss the peak action moment. I use burst mode (continuous shooting) to capture sequences of:
- Balloons lifting off the ground
- Burners firing during inflation
- Balloons passing by landmarks or other balloons
- Crew members working quickly during setup
Panning for Motion Blur: Sometimes, freezing the action isn’t the best approach. I’ve discovered that intentional motion blur can create incredibly dynamic images:
Panning Technique: To create beautiful motion blur while keeping the balloon sharp:
- Set a slower shutter speed (1/30 to 1/125 second)
- Follow the balloon’s movement with smooth, consistent motion
- Continue panning after pressing the shutter (follow-through)
- Practice the technique before the main event
Creative Motion Effects: I love experimenting with different motion effects:
- Zoom blur during exposure for a dynamic, explosive look
- Intentional camera movement for abstract, artistic results
- Long exposures of multiple balloons creating light trails
Capturing Human Action: Don’t forget about the human element! The crews and pilots provide incredible action photography opportunities:
Crew Dynamics: I focus on capturing:
- Teams working together during inflation
- Quick movements during launch and landing
- Communication between crew members
- The intensity and focus on their faces
Pilot Actions: Pilots provide great action shots when:
- Operating burners with dramatic flame effects
- Making quick decisions during flight
- Communicating with ground crews
- Performing precision maneuvers
Weather-Related Action: Different weather conditions create unique action opportunities:
Windy Conditions: While strong winds can cancel flights, moderate winds create interesting:
- Balloon movement and drift patterns
- Crew reactions to changing conditions
- Dynamic fabric movement on the balloons
- Exciting launch and landing sequences
Thermal Activity: On warm days, thermals can cause:
- Balloons to rise and fall unexpectedly
- Interesting flight patterns and movements
- Pilot reactions to changing conditions
- Unique compositional opportunities
My Action Photography Setup: For action shots, I use specific gear and settings:
- Fast memory cards to handle burst mode shooting
- Image stabilization to help with panning techniques
- Continuous autofocus to track moving subjects
- Higher ISO settings to enable faster shutter speeds
Real-Life Success Story: During a particularly windy festival, I captured an incredible sequence of a balloon making a rapid descent to avoid changing wind conditions. Using burst mode at 1/1000 second, I froze the action perfectly, showing the pilot’s intense focus, the burner firing, and the balloon’s rapid movement. That series ended up winning a sports photography award, proving that balloon photography can be just as action-packed as any other genre.
Tip 9: Post-Processing Magic
I’ll be honest—when I first started shooting balloons, I thought my work was done when I pressed the shutter. I couldn’t have been more wrong! Post-processing is where good balloon photos become great ones. After years of experimenting with different editing techniques, I’ve developed a workflow that consistently brings out the best in my balloon images.
The Power of RAW: I always shoot in RAW format, and here’s why you should too:
- Maximum flexibility in post-processing
- Better recovery of highlights and shadows
- More control over colors and contrast
- Higher quality final images
My Post-Processing Workflow: Here’s exactly how I edit my balloon photos from start to finish:
Step 1: Initial Culling and Selection I start by quickly reviewing my images and selecting the best ones. I look for:
- Sharp focus and proper exposure
- Interesting composition and perspective
- Emotional impact and storytelling potential
- Technical quality (no blown highlights or lost shadows)
Step 2: Basic Adjustments In Lightroom or Camera Raw, I make these foundational adjustments:
- Exposure: I usually increase exposure by +0.3 to +0.7 stops to brighten the image
- Contrast: A slight boost (+10-15) to add pop
- Highlights: I reduce highlights (-15 to -30) to recover detail in bright areas
- Shadows: I increase shadows (+20 to +40) to bring out detail in dark areas
- Whites and Blacks: I adjust these to set the proper tonal range
Step 3: Color Enhancement Balloon photography is all about vibrant colors, so I pay special attention to color adjustments:
- Vibrance: I increase vibrance (+15 to +25) to make colors pop without looking unnatural
- Saturation: A slight boost (+5 to +10) for overall color intensity
- HSL Panel: I fine-tune individual colors, especially the reds, blues, and yellows in balloon designs
- White Balance: I adjust temperature and tint to achieve the desired mood
Step 4: Local Adjustments This is where I really make my images stand out:
- Radial Filter: I use this to brighten the balloon and slightly darken the edges, creating a vignette effect
- Graduated Filter: Perfect for balancing exposure between sky and ground
- Adjustment Brush: I use this for specific areas that need special attention
Step 5: Sharpening and Noise Reduction I apply sharpening and noise reduction based on the image:
- Sharpening: I apply moderate sharpening (amount 40-60, radius 1.0-1.5)
- Noise Reduction: I adjust this based on ISO—more for high ISO images, less for low ISO
- Masking: I use masking to apply sharpening only to edges and not to smooth areas like sky
Step 6: Final Touches For that extra polish, I sometimes add:
- Vignette: A subtle vignette to draw attention to the balloon
- Grain: A touch of film grain for a more organic look
- Lens Corrections: To fix any distortion or chromatic aberration
Advanced Techniques for Special Effects: Sometimes I like to get creative with more advanced processing:
HDR for High Contrast Scenes: For scenes with extreme dynamic range (like sunrise balloons), I sometimes use HDR techniques:
- Bracketed exposures (3-5 shots at different exposures)
- HDR merging in Lightroom or specialized software
- Natural-looking results that avoid the “HDR look”
Panorama Stitching: For wide balloon festival scenes, I often create panoramas:
- Overlapping shots (30-40% overlap between frames)
- Consistent exposure across all shots
- Stitching software like Lightroom’s panorama tool
Creative Color Grading: For artistic effect, I sometimes apply color grading:
- Split toning for creative color effects
- Color lookup tables for specific moods
- Gradient maps for dramatic color transformations
My Favorite Presets: Over the years, I’ve developed several Lightroom presets specifically for balloon photography:
- Golden Hour Glow: Enhances warm tones and adds a soft, dreamy quality
- Vibrant Fiesta: Boosts colors for maximum impact
- Dramatic Sky: Emphasizes cloud formations and sky detail
- Vintage Balloon: Adds a nostalgic, film-like quality
Export Settings for Different Uses: I export my images with different settings depending on their use:
- Web/Social Media: JPEG, sRGB, 2048 pixels on the long edge, quality 80
- Print: TIFF or high-quality JPEG, Adobe RGB, full resolution
- Stock Photography: JPEG, sRGB, high resolution, minimal compression
Post-Processing Philosophy: I’ve learned that the best post-processing enhances the image without making it look unnatural. My goal is always to create images that represent what I saw and felt when I took the photograph, just with a little extra polish and impact.
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Tip 10: Safety, Etiquette, and Professionalism
I’ve saved what might be the most important tip for last. After attending dozens of balloon festivals and working with professional balloonists, I’ve learned that safety, etiquette, and professionalism aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re essential for successful balloon photography and for being welcomed back to events.
Safety First, Always: Hot air balloons are incredible, but they’re also serious aircraft that demand respect. Here’s how I prioritize safety:
Maintain Safe Distances: I always keep a respectful distance from balloons and equipment:
- At least 50 feet from inflating balloons
- Never walk under balloon envelopes or equipment
- Stay clear of launch and landing zones
- Follow all barriers and marked safety zones
Weather Awareness: I’ve learned to take weather conditions seriously:
- Wind conditions over 10 mph usually mean no flights
- Rain or storms can cancel events quickly
- Temperature changes affect balloon performance
- I always check the forecast and event updates
Equipment Safety: I’m careful with my gear around balloons:
- Secure straps on all cameras and equipment
- No loose items that could fall into the balloon basket
- Be aware of moving parts and equipment
- Protect gear from dust, debris, and weather
Professional Etiquette: How you conduct yourself at balloon festivals can make or break your photography opportunities:
Respect the Crews: Balloon crews work hard and deserve respect:
- Never interfere with their work
- Ask permission before getting close for shots
- Thank them for their patience and cooperation
- Follow their instructions without question
Be Considerate of Other Photographers: Festivals can get crowded with photographers:
- Don’t block others’ shots
- Share prime locations when possible
- Be mindful of your equipment and movement
- Help others when you can (holding equipment, etc.)
Know the Rules: Every festival has its own rules and guidelines:
- Read the guidelines before attending
- Respect restricted areas and photography policies
- Follow check-in procedures for media or special access
- Comply with all requests from event staff
Building Professional Relationships: I’ve discovered that being professional and respectful opens doors:
Network with Officials: I make it a point to:
- Introduce myself to festival organizers
- Share my work (when appropriate)
- Offer to provide images for festival use
- Build relationships for future access
Work with Balloonists: Many balloon pilots love photography:
- Connect with pilots on social media before events
- Show interest in their craft and balloons
- Offer prints of your best shots
- Respect their time and privacy
Give Back to the Community: I believe in contributing to the balloon photography community:
- Share knowledge with other photographers
- Credit balloonists when posting images
- Support festivals through attendance and promotion
- Mentor newcomers to balloon photography
My Professional Approach: Here’s how I conduct myself at balloon festivals:
Before the Event:
- Research the festival thoroughly
- Contact organizers if seeking special access
- Prepare my gear and plan my shots
- Arrive early and check in properly
During the Event:
- Dress appropriately for conditions
- Carry identification and press credentials (if applicable)
- Be patient and wait for the right moments
- Help others when possible
After the Event:
- Thank organizers and officials
- Share select images with balloonists and crews
- Post responsibly on social media
- Plan improvements for next time
The Benefits of Professionalism: I’ve found that being professional and respectful leads to:
- Better access to prime shooting locations
- Special opportunities like media flights or behind-the-scenes access
- Invitations to exclusive events and festivals
- Lasting relationships with balloonists and other photographers
Final Thought: Remember that balloon photography isn’t just about getting great shots—it’s about being part of a wonderful community of aviation enthusiasts. The more respect and professionalism you show, the more opportunities you’ll have to capture those incredible balloon images that inspire us all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best camera for hot air balloon photography?
I’ve shot balloon festivals with everything from smartphones to professional DSLRs, and honestly, the best camera is the one you have with you. That said, I recommend a camera with manual controls, good low-light performance, and the ability to shoot in RAW format. Modern mirrorless cameras are excellent because they’re lightweight and have great electronic viewfinders that help with composition in bright sunlight.
Do I need expensive lenses for balloon photography?
Not at all! While I use professional lenses, I’ve gotten amazing shots with basic kit lenses. A versatile zoom lens (18-55mm or 24-70mm) will cover most situations. The key is understanding how to use whatever lens you have effectively. Focus on composition and timing rather than worrying about having the most expensive gear.
What time of day is best for balloon photography?
Early morning (dawn to about 9 AM) and late afternoon (4 PM to sunset) are absolutely magical for balloon photography. The light is softer, colors are more vibrant, and you’ll avoid the harsh midday sun. Plus, most balloon launches happen during these times because winds are typically calmer.
How do I deal with crowds at balloon festivals?
Crowds can be challenging, but I’ve learned to work with them rather than against them. Arrive early to get prime spots, look for elevated positions, and don’t be afraid to move around. Sometimes including the crowd in your shots can add scale and human interest to your balloon photos.
What camera settings should I use for balloon photography?
I typically shoot in aperture priority or manual mode with settings around f/8-f/11 for good depth of field, shutter speeds of 1/250 second or faster to freeze movement, and ISO adjusted for lighting conditions (100-400 in bright light, 800-1600 in low light). But don’t be afraid to experiment—different situations call for different approaches.
How can I get permission for special access at balloon festivals?
Building relationships is key. I’ve found that being professional, respectful, and sometimes offering to share your photos with the festival or balloonists can open doors. Contact festival organizers in advance, introduce yourself, and explain what you’re hoping to achieve. Many festivals have media days or special access for photographers.
What’s the biggest mistake beginners make in balloon photography?
From my experience, the biggest mistake is not arriving early enough. So many incredible shots happen during setup and inflation before most photographers even arrive. Also, many beginners stick to one spot instead of moving around to find different angles and perspectives.
How do I handle changing weather conditions?
Weather is unpredictable, so I always check the forecast and have backup plans. If flights are canceled due to wind, focus on ground activities, crew preparations, or festival atmosphere. Sometimes the most interesting shots happen when things don’t go according to plan.
Should I shoot in RAW or JPEG?
I always shoot in RAW because it gives me so much more flexibility in post-processing. RAW files capture more detail and allow me to recover highlights and shadows that would be lost in JPEG. The extra file size is worth it for the quality and editing options.
How can I make my balloon photos stand out on social media?
Focus on unique perspectives, interesting compositions, and storytelling. Instead of just posting a balloon in the sky, try including human elements, shooting from unusual angles, or capturing the behind-the-scenes action. Also, take time with your post-processing—well-edited images with vibrant colors and good contrast tend to perform better.
Conclusion
After countless balloon festivals, thousands of shots, and more early mornings than I can count, I’ve learned that amazing hot air balloon photography is about much more than just pointing your camera at colorful objects in the sky. It’s about understanding light, mastering composition, being prepared, and most importantly, respecting the incredible aviation community that makes these events possible.
The 10 tips I’ve shared with you represent years of trial and error, missed opportunities, and breakthrough moments. From arriving early to capture the inflation process to mastering post-processing techniques that make your colors pop, each tip builds on the others to create a comprehensive approach to balloon photography.
I encourage you to start implementing these techniques at your next balloon festival. Don’t try to master everything at once—pick one or two tips that resonate with you and focus on those. As you become more comfortable, gradually incorporate more techniques into your photography workflow.
Remember that balloon photography is a journey, not a destination. Every festival offers new opportunities to learn and grow as a photographer. The more you shoot, the more you’ll develop your own unique style and vision.
I’d love to see your balloon photography journey unfold. Feel free to share your experiences, ask questions, and connect with fellow balloon photography enthusiasts. Together, we can continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in this incredible genre of photography.
Now grab your camera, check those festival schedules, and get ready to capture some absolutely stunning hot air balloon images in 2025. The sky’s the limit!