Arizona Balloon Classic 2011

[Robinhood4x4]

This last weekend phoenix had a balloon festival, kinda like the new mexico one but on a smaller scale. Since we couldn't make it to new mexico this year, we decided to head out to this one since it was only 30 minutes away and I ended up going on Saturday night and then again on Sunday morning.

I've always wondered how they get them in the air without melting starting their balloon on fire. It turns out a big gas powered fan has enough power to mostly inflate a balloon, then they direct the propane burners into the balloon and let loose with the flame. There's enough room in there, that the flame is well away from the sides of the balloon, even when the balloon is on its side.

Anyway, here's the pictures.

http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff380/antinode4x4/Arizona%20Balloon%20Classic%202011/IMG_9891es.jpg

http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff380/antinode4x4/Arizona%20Balloon%20Classic%202011/IMG_0062es.jpg

http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff380/antinode4x4/Arizona%20Balloon%20Classic%202011/IMG_0376es.jpg

http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff380/antinode4x4/Arizona%20Balloon%20Classic%202011/IMG_0370_risecopys.jpg

[Robinhood4x4]

http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff380/antinode4x4/Arizona%20Balloon%20Classic%202011/IMG_0415es.jpg

http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff380/antinode4x4/Arizona%20Balloon%20Classic%202011/IMG_0459es.jpg

http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff380/antinode4x4/Arizona%20Balloon%20Classic%202011/IMG_0478es.jpg

http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff380/antinode4x4/Arizona%20Balloon%20Classic%202011/IMG_0492es.jpg

Here's the rest of the pictures:

http://s1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff380/antinode4x4/Arizona%20Balloon%20Classic%202011/

As always, photography tips and criticisms are always welcome.

[04 Rocko Taco]

Very cool pictures! Thanks for sharing!!

[flyfishexpert]

http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff380/antinode4x4/Arizona%20Balloon%20Classic%202011/IMG_9891es.jpg

This is a great shot! Very cool!