Tony's Takes Photography

Wildlife, landscape and weather photography

Colorado’s Rocky Mountains and a Centennial State balloon

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A hot air balloon decorated like the flag of Colorado flies in front of the Rocky Mountains. (© Tony’s Takes)
Kind of a fun image I captured this past weekend. I was wrapping up my photo drive when I saw a number of hot air balloons descending in the north Denver metro area. Unfortunately this guy was coming down pretty quickly so I couldn’t get myself closer and in a better position. Nevertheless, it makes for a cool capture even if not the best quality.

Sights of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

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From 2004 to 2006 I spent the first week of October in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the annual Balloon Fiesta. The event is absolutely amazing and one that you truly have to see to appreciate. Hundreds of balloons take flight soon after dawn each morning (weather permitting) in a beautiful display of colors and designs.

Here are some of the pics from the times I was down there – including a couple from when I had the opportunity to fly in one of the balloons. The annual event is going on right now so if you can make it there, I would highly recommend it. ?

Scroll down to view the complete gallery of images.

A mass ascension at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. (© Tony’s Takes)
A mass ascension at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. (© Tony’s Takes)

Light ‘em up!

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After my parents retired they volunteered at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta for a number of years.  Three years in a row I went down and spent a few days watching as these beautiful craft took to the skies.

If you ever get a chance to go, I would highly recommend it.  It is held the first full week of October each year so it is coming up soon.

The main image below was taken in 2004 as the balloonists readied for the mass ascension.  Scroll down to view some of the images I took the times I attended the event.

Hot air balloons are illuminated with the flame from their burners just before pre-dawn at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. (© Tony’s Takes)
Hot air balloons are illuminated with the flame from their burners just before pre-dawn at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. (© Tony’s Takes)