This is probably not the maneuver the balloon pilot expected. The balloon started to drift up normally during the morning launch at the Albuquerque Balloon Festival, but got caught in a sudden breeze and drifted into other balloons filling up. You can see the pilot is giving it gas trying for more lift which presents a tense moment. Fortunately, the balloon he ran into collapsed just enough to provide a cushion without displacing the basket too much. Nothing caught fire, and the pilot was able to pull free and continue the lift.
This really isn't "photojournalism" because I have applied some filters, but nothing has been moved or added.
Great capture, and interesting story. I'm glad nothing too serious eventuated. There was a balloon incident in Melbourne a few days ago. One was supposed to land on the beach, but dipped into the sea about 1.5 kilometers (nearly a mile) off shore. The passengers were rescued by police boat and the balloon towed to shore. A balloon ride is still something on my bucket list though.
I was there the year before this one. You were in the right position and ready when this happened. That's what I would call a "high pucker factor moment" for sure.
Ballooning is totally backward from flying in an airplane. You take off with the machine on fire, not knowing exactly where you are going or when you will be getting there, and usually land where there is no airport.
hey patsy .. a dramatic moment caught to perfection .. !
i've often wondered what would happen if there was a sudden or strong breeze before the balloon is fully in the air ... would the basket be dragged along the ground .. would ppl be injured .. would things catch fire .. etc etc .. i'd never heard of such things so i'd thought they were very safe .. but after reading your story i'm not so sure ..!!
loving the processing you've done on your photo .. its a great image .. :)
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