Did you know?
The most famous picture in the world is known as Bliss, which was the default wallpaper for Microsoft’s Windows XP operating system from 2001 to 2007.
The scene of this iconic location has changed dramatically over the years, becoming a thriving vineyard after it was taken. The breathtaking view of undulating green hills, a brilliant blue sky, and a lone hilltop tree was photographed in Sonoma, California, in 1996 by National Geographic photographer Charles O'Rear, with a medium format Mamiya RZ67. O'Rear was travelling to see his now-wife at the time. More than a billion Windows XP computers have this understated yet alluring wallpaper set as their default.
Over time, Bliss has developed into a symbol of peace and nature’s beauty, surpassing its use as a simple desktop wallpaper. Its universal recognition and nostalgic resonance have cemented its place in history. Even while the scene itself no longer exists, people’s memories of this image are here to stay. This is especially true for those who grew up using Windows computers in the early ‘00s.
The picture was taken on film, but for years, many people believed it had been Photoshopped– and that is possibly its most amazing feature. Not only was it shot on film, but it was also developed precisely as it looks on a desktop; the picture wasn’t edited at all.
In 1998, O'Rear sent the picture to the stock photo website Westlight. Microsoft later acquired the website for an undisclosed low six-figure amount above $100,000 (about $187,183 / £146,410 / AU$284,291 in current currency). O'Rear quipped in an interview that when he leaves this world, his tombstone would read ‘Photographer of Bliss’. The image has followed O'Rear throughout his life.
Even in this day of rapid technological development, Bliss is ageless. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that Microsoft, a business that was rooted in the digital world, chose to use an analogue background for what is likely to be its most well-known and profitable operating system to date.
Image source: Geekwire, IBN live, Flickr, News18, People