Canberra’s Iconic Balloon Festival – My Most Loved Photograph

The Story Behind My Most Loved Photograph: A Journey Through Canberra's Balloon Festival

Canberra’s Balloon Festival 2011

Canberra’s Iconic Balloon Festival

In 2011, I received a gift voucher from my boyfriend at the time (now my husband) for Balloon Aloft in Canberra. My birthday is at the end of January, and I kept trying to book the ride. However, each attempt was thwarted by the weather. After weeks of trying, I decided to aim for Canberra Day during the long weekend in March. Luckily, I secured a spot.

The morning started early as we arrived at Parkes Place lawns in Canberra, nestled between Questacon and the National Gallery. The excitement was palpable.

You don’t realize how big the balloon basket is until you see it up close. The one we rode in had a massive basket—designed to carry guests comfortably.

As we climbed into the basket, I felt a twinge of anxiety. I thought I was on the wrong side. Being short and surrounded by so many people, I assumed there was no chance of getting the photo I wanted. I aimed to shoot towards the sunrise, not back towards the museum.

So, I decided to turn around, enjoy the view, and fly peacefully over Canberra.

As the balloon lifted off, my heart raced with excitement. Canberra stretched out beneath me like I had never seen before. The city’s quiet beauty took my breath away.

We started drifting towards the museum, and on a whim, I tried taking a few photos. Little did I know that this image would become my biggest seller, drawing crowds at every market I attend.

The ride was incredible. We floated over Lake Burley Griffin and eventually landed in what was then just a paddock—now part of the Rock Garden at the National Arboretum.

Back in 2011, no one was allowed on the lake, making this image a rare capture. Today, hundreds of people follow the balloons on the lake each year, but this photo preserves a moment in time that will never be the same again.

Camera & Settings

• Camera: Canon 7D

• Lens: 20mm

• Exposure: 1/250 sec

• Aperture: f/8

• ISO: 400

  
  

The Magic of Photography

What makes this photograph so special to me is not just the view, but the feeling of that morning—the quiet, the anticipation, and the sheer wonder of seeing Canberra from above. Every time I look at it, I am reminded of that magical moment and the joy of capturing something truly fleeting.

Photography allows us to freeze moments in time. It invites us to relive experiences and share them with others. This particular image tells a story, and every person who sees it seems to feel a little piece of that morning too.

The Impact of Nature on Art

Nature has a profound influence on art. It inspires creativity and evokes emotions. As an artist, I find that the landscapes around Canberra and the NSW coast provide endless inspiration. The vibrant colors, the changing seasons, and the unique light all play a role in shaping my work.

When I look at my photograph from the Balloon Festival, I see more than just a beautiful landscape. I see the connection between art and nature. It reminds me of the importance of capturing these fleeting moments, as they are often the most meaningful.

Engaging with the Community

As I share my work at local markets, I love connecting with others who appreciate art and nature. It’s heartwarming to hear stories from fellow enthusiasts about their experiences with photography or their own adventures in Canberra.

I believe that art should be accessible to everyone. That’s why I strive to create stunning landscape and drone photography prints that resonate with people. My goal is to become the go-to source for beautiful art that reflects the essence of Canberra and the NSW coast.

A Call to Action

If you’re interested in exploring the beauty of Canberra through photography, I invite you to join me on this journey. Whether you’re an art collector or simply someone who loves nature, there’s something for everyone to appreciate.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if you’d like to learn more about my work. I’m always excited to share my passion for photography and the stories behind each piece.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my most loved photograph is more than just an image. It encapsulates a moment filled with joy, wonder, and connection to nature. I hope it inspires you to seek out your own adventures and capture the beauty around you.

Let’s celebrate the art of photography together, and may we always find joy in the moments that take our breath away.

Canberra’s Iconic Balloon Festival.

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For more information about my photography and to view my collection, visit Nicole Kearns Photography.