November, 2013


25
Nov 13

New Mexico–Balloon Fiesta Dawn Patrol

Photograph of a Hot Air Balloon ascending before dawn at the Albuequerque Balloon FiestaBefore the main body of balloons can ascend, the Dawn Patrol goes up to examine the wind and weather conditions to determine whether it is safe to lift off. Again, these lighted balloons rising against the dark sky are beautiful and dramatic.


18
Nov 13

New Mexico–Balloon Fiesta 2

Photograph of a Hot Air Balloon Inflating before dawn at the Albuequerque Balloon FiestaThe Balloon Fiesta, also known as the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, is the world’s largest hot air ballooning event. It is said to be the world’s most photographed event. When the propane burners fire up and the balloons are illuminated against the night sky, the effect is dramatic.


11
Nov 13

New Mexico–Balloon Fiesta

Photograph of a Hot Air Balloon Inflating before dawn at the Albuequerque Balloon FiestaI recently spent eight days in New Mexico, photographing in and around Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Taos. My first morning in Albuequerque coincided with the first Sunday of the Balloon Fiesta. I hadn’t planned to shoot hot air balloons, but this was an opportunity not to be missed. I arrived at the grounds two hours before dawn. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I brought 2 cameras and 3 lenses. The first balloons began to inflate in complete darkness. When the burners would start, the balloons would suddenly begin to glow. The bursts of color would last only for a few seconds so it was tricky to get a shot. This shot was 1/50th of a second at f/1.8 and ISO 800.

 

 


4
Nov 13

San Francisco Zoo–Chilean Flamingo

Photograph of a Chilean Flamingo at the San Francisco Zoo in San Francisco, CaliforniaThere is a large group of flamingos across from the Zoo’s Leaping Lemur Cafe. Their long graceful necks and the color and texture of their plumage make them fun to photograph. This is one of my favorite shots from the zoo trip.