Slinningsbålet 2024: Wood, fire and water – a closer look at the world's largest annual bonfire

The Slinningsbålet 2024 will, as always, be a burning symbol of community, enthusiasts and a spectacular Norwegian summer tradition. Located at the far end of Slinningen in Ålesund, a bonfire is built every year that often exceeds 40 meters in height – and the Slinningsbålet 2024 promises to be just as impressive as previous years. For photographers, the event offers unique lighting conditions, great contrasts and strong visual expressions.

Construction, tradition and community

The Slinningsbål has its roots in the late 19th century, and it is the youth of Ålesund who are responsible for the enormous work of building the world's tallest Midsummer bonfire. Every summer they start collecting pallets and planks in early spring, and the construction technique has developed into an art form in its own right. Capturing this process on film can provide deep documentary impressions – both through detailed shots of the hands at work and wide-angle shots that show the impressive height.

As a photographer, it is a good idea to visit the construction site several times throughout the spring and early summer. It gives you the opportunity to capture developments over time and get in touch with the enthusiasts behind the fire. This not only creates stronger narratives in your images, but also opportunities for unique portraits and insight into a local phenomenon that lives on volunteerism and pride.

Light, contrasts and perfect times for photography

Bonfire day itself offers photographers a spectacular mix of natural evening light and intense heat from the flames. When the bonfire is lit, it usually happens around 9–10 p.m., and then the light is in the transition between golden hour and blue hour. This makes it possible to capture both warm and cool tones in the same image. Use a tripod, low ISO, and a longer shutter speed to bring out the movement in the flames without overexposing.

Shooting in RAW allows you to bring out details in both the shadows and highlights – which is important when working with strong light sources like fire. Feel free to use a telephoto lens to get close to the flames from a safe distance, and experiment with different framing to capture the crowd, reflections in the water, and the contrasts between the fire and the sea.

Documenting Slinningsbålet 2024 is not just about the flames themselves – but about the atmosphere around them. Small children sitting on shoulders, elderly people telling stories, the sound of crackling wood and the smell of salty sea and smoke. All of this can be transferred to a photo if you take the time to observe and be present in the moment.

🔗 Recommended links

• Slinningsbålet on Wikipedia (Norwegian)
  Get an overview of history and past records.

• Visit Ålesund – What's happening in June
  Official tourist site with updated information about the Slinningsbålet bonfire and other events.

• NRK – Reports about the Slinningsbålet bonfire
  See previous reports, videos and interviews from the campfire.

• Yr.no – Weather forecast for Slinningen
  Check the weather before taking photos!