Hot Air Balloons, Cappadocia Photograph by Kani Polat, My Shot The success of a photograph almost always comes from planning, and luck definitely favors the prepared. In this shot of hot air balloons over ancient rock formations in Turkey, the photographer no doubt planned ahead to make sure he was in the right place at the right time. First, the cone-shaped rock formations complement the similarly shaped balloons. I especially love that one larger formation is included on the left. Not only is it a bold shape to have close to the camera, but it also has a curious, cave-like element and speaks to the geological history of the setting, giving the image that all-important sense of place. Second, the early-morning light raking in from the right is perfectly lovely, as are the soft clouds, which were a lucky element. Finally, the balloons are beautifully placed across the sky, but the red balloon in the upper left of the frame is the final, key element to the success of the image. Download Wallpaper (1600 x 1200 pixels)
Boy With Balloons, India Photograph by Kamala Kannan, My ShotBy photographing the shadow of the child running with balloons rather than the actual child, the photographer captured an image that immediately stops us in our tracks. Though the shadow is flat, it has so much movement and life. What is most surprising is how vibrant the colors are, and this is because the background is white/off-white. Download Wallpaper (1600 x 1200 pixels)
Art by Heritage Images/Corbis1783A taffeta hot-air balloon carries two men over Paris. Its inventors were said to be inspired by paper—or underwear—floating in a fire’s updraft.
Hot Air Ballooning, Turkey Photograph by Heather Thompson, Your ShotThe spectacular view from a hot air balloon at sunrise over the Cappadocia Valley in Turkey. The morning light over the valley made the view appear surreal.