I’ve been highly anticipating this year’s balloonfest (2021) in Panguitch.  Last year’s photos were super successful and I wanted another round.  However, this year was different from last year in many ways.  Still, I’m sharing my best photos with you.

Balloon Launch

This year, Balloonfest suffered from poor weather.  The first balloon flight planned was little more than an elevator ride as no wind blew.  The second flight was cancelled due to harsh conditions.  Only the third planned flight happened.  I took advantage of this flight for some more hot air balloon photos.

I also took the time for some panoramic photos of the hot air balloons.  If hot air balloons fly low enough and in groups or clusters, panoramas work well.  They also capture more balloons in frame than regular photos do.

Panoramas really capture more of the full view a hot air balloon launch offers.  I try for those photos when I can.

Balloon Glow

Last year, we enjoyed the first balloon glow in years.  Three hot air balloons inflated on Main Street rather than simply shooting off jets of propane fire called “candle-lighting.”  This year was VERY different.  Rather than three balloons inflating, we experienced all BUT three balloons inflating.  The streets were lined with lots of color as people enjoyed the exceptional light show.  I tried capturing several angles of multiple inflated balloons, however, none of those photos worked out as hoped.  Still, I did capture a couple shots worth showing off.

Conclusion

I really enjoy every time I experience the Panguitch Balloonfest in June.  I always come away with photos I love.  Shooting hot air balloon photos gives me a chance to try something different from my normal landscape photography.  Still, hot air balloon photos also make for beautiful landscape photos if done right.  I now look forward to Panguitch’s Balloonfest 2022.  Hope to see you there too.

Check out previous year’s hot air balloon photos using this link.

More Hot Air Balloon Photos