Balloons

A great action shot capturing the dramatic moments the frames are thrust into the seemingly flimsy balloon canopy, to prepare for lift-off. Composition works well, including the basket, the people, and just enough of the balloon to give context. I love the harmony of the subtle colours, allowing nothing to over-dominate the scene, instead allowing the eye of the viewer to casually wander around ths scene and enjoy all the details captured. Congratulations on your third place finish.

I love this bold display of colours, very bright and vivid, but not overdone. The subject is clear, but by shooting in close has given a semi-abstract look, which I really like. You have done especially well to show details within the surface of the balloons, from the puckers near the seams of the balloon on the left, and the gently undulating form of the right hand balloon. Great work, well done on your top ten placing.

I absolutely love this wide open landscape, capturing two low-flying balloons drifting over the temples. It could have been tempting to focus in closer, but the wide view brings a lovely mood of gentleness and calm. Any editing has been sympathetically done, with no harsh colours or contrasts in the land or the sky. It also adds harmony that the warm colour of the balloons mimic those of the buildings, which are all contrasted nicely against the cool greens of the grass and trees. Congratulations on your winning image.

There is certainly a story to be told here, with several "bunches" of balloons looking to have been abandoned. That they look to have been carefully secured to prevent their escape indicates maybe the balloon sellers are taking a quick break or siesta. It is certainly an unusual find, well captured, and reward for having your camera with you for a chance-shot. The colours of the balloons stand out nicely against the cream and browns of the wall and doorway. Well done on your top ten placing.

What a great shot, showing the frenzied activity at a dawn balloon flight. I love how the balloons in their varying degrees of preparedness seem to be jostling for space before rising serenely into the skies. Challenging lighting conditions, with a combination of low light and the emerging brightness of the sun. You have done a great job in capturing both the action and the mood. Congratulations on your second place finish.