Today did not go as planned. After getting up way before dawn and driving out to the Gregg County Airport in order to catch the pilot’s accuracy competition, we learned that the event was canceled because of the weather. We were bummed, but these things happen and safety must come first. So we headed back home to make it back for the evening festivities of the balloon glow. Since this was a night event, there aren’t many photos, but here are three to share.

At the end of the Star Spangled Banner, all of the pilots ignited their flames in what is called a candle burn. It was pretty amazing, especially for those of us who weren’t expecting it. I’m glad I thought to pull the camera up and snap a few shot while the flames were still going.

Then, once all of the balloons were inflated, they all ignited again for what is called the “glow”. Again, an amazing sight which a single still doesn’t really do justice.

And that was about it for us. That was what we had come to see. But while we were leaving, a felt a dark presence in that place. A feeling I have not felt since…

This huge balloon of Darth Vader, right next to the one I had shot yesterday of Yoda. They were just hanging out with their heads floating around together like old friends.  🙂

So that’s it for the balloon festival this year. Maybe we’ll have better luck with the weather next year.

All words and photos copyright 2018 MHampton Photography 
Equipment used: Canon 1DX Mark II, Canon 16-35L 4.0