When people think of Cappadocia, the first image that comes to mind is the sky filled with colorful hot air balloons. In wedding photography, balloons offer a backdrop you won't find anywhere else in the world.
How Do You Shoot with the Balloons?
There are two different approaches:
1. Shooting from the Ground with Balloons in the Background
The most common and practical method. The shoot takes place from Göreme's high points during the morning hours when the balloons take flight. You're in the foreground while the balloons decorate the sky behind you.
Advantages:
- No extra cost (no balloon tour fee required)
- More time for the shoot
- More pose and angle options
- The photographer is at the same level as you
2. Shooting Inside the Balloon
The shoot takes place inside the balloon's basket. It's a more intimate, exclusive experience, but comes with some limitations.
Advantages:
- A one-of-a-kind experience
- Romantic shots against the sky
- Seeing Cappadocia from a bird's-eye view
Disadvantages:
- Limited space in the basket
- Other passengers may be present (unless it's a private balloon)
- Limited room for the photographer to move
- Risk of cancellation depending on weather conditions
When Do the Balloons Fly?
Balloons only fly in the early morning — usually just before sunrise, around 5:00–6:00 AM. The flight lasts about an hour.
Important: Balloon flights depend on weather conditions. In wind, fog, or rain, flights are cancelled. Balloon flights operate on roughly 250 days a year in Cappadocia — the best period is between April and November.
Prices (2025 current)
- Standard balloon tour: €150–250 per person
- Private balloon: €1,500–3,000 (just 2 people + pilot)
- Ground shoot: No extra cost (included in your shoot package)
Fairylight Studio's Recommendation
We generally recommend a "ground shoot with balloons in the background." It offers both more shoot time and more pose options. But if you also want the balloon experience itself, the best combination is booking the balloon tour on a separate day and doing the ground shoot the same morning while the balloons are up.
Tips
- Check the balloon flight calendar in advance
- Plan an alternative date for your shoot day
- Go to bed early so you're ready before dawn
- Prepare your outfits ahead of time — don't rush in the morning
- Bring a shawl or cape for cold mornings
Ready for Your Shoot?
Get in touch with Fairylight Studio for unforgettable shots in Cappadocia.
