The annual Red Rock Balloon Rally is the second largest balloon rally in the world, surpassed only by the much more famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This rally has been held every year since 1981, and this year’s event, December 6-8, 2013, is expected to draw over 200 hot air balloons to Red Rock Park just outside of Gallup, New Mexico.
One of the highlights of the rally is Dawn Patrol on Saturday morning. Pilots and their crews start inflating the balloons in the dark and begin their ascent just before sunrise. The balloons glow beautifully when the burners are fired up to fill the balloons with hot air.
The Red Rock Balloon Rally is especially great for photographers, not only because of the spectacular landscape of Red Rock Park, but also because there is easy access to the balloon launching area and to a variety of viewpoints. There is no admission charge for the event, and you might even be able to score a ride in one of the balloons. I had a thrilling ride aboard the balloon Aeolos, courtesy of pilot and owner Sam Tzamaloukas. Photographers need to note that space is extremely limited in the balloon baskets. You will not be able to bring a bag full of gear, and you won’t be able to move around much. My advice: one camera body with the widest lens you own and another body with a mid-range wide-to-tele zoom. Put a lens hood on each lens to prevent flare and to protect the lenses when they bang against the basket.
Here’s a link for more of my photos the Red Rock Balloon Rally.
Have you been to a hot air balloon festival? Been up in a balloon? On your bucket list?
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