Photographer Application

Official Photographer Application

Each year, Balloon Fiesta works with photographers from across the globe to capture its nine days of magic. Our volunteer photographers capture high-quality photos and videos of the entire event, from balloons to vendors, for use throughout the year in marketing and promotional materials, training and documentation for pilots and staff, merchendise, and more. Photographers may see their footage across web and print.

While photographers have ample creative freedom, Balloon Fiesta does have some requirements for the official photography team:

• Photographers must capture all aspects of Balloon Fiesta, including people, vendors, RVs and parking, non-ballooning events, and more.
• Photos must be post-processed and at least 300 PPI and videos 1080p or higher in a combination of portrait and landscape orientations. No RAW files will be accepted.
• Photographers retain copyright while granting non-exclusive, unlimited usage rights to Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Inc.
  • Photos and videos may be used in promotional materials including social media, website, advertisements, and print materials.
  • Photos and videos may be used in merchandise products such as calendars, photo books, and magnets.
  • Photos and videos may be used in promotional and training videos published worldwide.

Expectations

• Official photographers must work a minimum of five sessions.
• Photographers must provide a minimum of 20 photos/vidoes of each assignment per session assigned.
• Photo and video files must follow Balloon Fiesta’s naming convention.
• All photos and videos must be uploaded to Balloon Fiesta’s cloud-based systems within 30 days of the event (no later than November 12, 2026).
• Photographers are expected to upload a small selection of photos/videos each day worked for use on official Balloon Fiesta social channels.

By submitting an application you certify that you have the ability to meet these expectations.

Other Considerations

• Official photographers represent Balloon Fiesta and are expected to conduct all activities in a safe, legal, and professional manner. This includes following direction from pilots and officials.
• Balloon Fiesta is a weather dependent event that requires early mornings and quite a bit of walking. Photographers assigned to morning sessions are required to arrive on the field before 5:00 am.
• Daily “newsworthy” photos/videos are highly encouraged and should be shared within 1-3 hours of capture.
• Photographers are responsible for all travel, lodging, and other expenses. Lodging should be booked immediately upon acceptance to the team.
• Preference will be given to those with availability all nine days.

2026 Photographer Application

Sorry, we are not accepting applications at this time. Applications are accepted from March 1 to April 1 each year.