Majesty of the Alps

This panoramic photograph taken by helicopter immortalizes the most beautiful summits of the Zermatt region in the Swiss Alps. In the background rises the famous Matterhorn. Then comes the Weisshorn, the highest mountain in the imperial crown of Zinal. I was lucky enough to climb its magnificent ridges to reach summit. On the right, Bishorn is one of the easiest 4000-meter-high Alpine mountains to climb. Finally, in the foreground, the Brunegghorn rises to an altitude of 3,833 metres and still boasts its hanging glaciers.

I spent a long time studying the cartography of the region to find the location that would allow me to convey this feeling of timeless power through the work. I was fortunate that the conditions were right to achieve this exceptional panorama. As in life, the photographer must be able to capture the beauty of the moment, because every moment is unique and ephemeral. Here, I wanted to capture the spring light reflected on the summits mountains, freshly snowed in after a storm. Light and shadow respond to each other, giving the painting its extraordinary power. These contrasts of black and white are particularly appealing to me, while the last clouds sailing across the summits contribute to lifting them to the heavens.

The particularity of this photograph lies in the angle from which it is taken. Here, the Weisshorn stands out, gigantic and fascinating, while the majestic Matterhorn, usually in the spotlight, appears very small. The effect is disconcerting and all the more interesting for it. The inversion of proportions and the purity of the relief make this work a unique testimony to the treasures of the high mountains.