about the work

This panoramic photograph takes us closer to the imperial crown of Zinal. Taken from a helicopter, it highlights the exceptional summits that stand in the heart of the Valais Alps, in Switzerland. The work reveals the power and grandeur of the Zinalrothorn, theThe Obergabelhorn, the Matterhorn and the The Dent d'Hérens. In the background, the Italian Alps come into view.

I took this aerial view on a spring morning, after the passage of a snow storm. The first rays of the sun illuminate the summits just covered by a thick snowy coat. Such a beautiful sight is only visible once or twice a year. It requires very specific conditions of snow, humidity and wind. Even when these conditions are met, each photograph is a unique work because the way the faces are lit by the sun varies throughout the year. This is the difficulty of the mountain photographer's art. I have been studying these meteorological factors for the last ten years to better understand and apprehend them. In spite of this, there is always a part of chance in the success of a photograph.

After spending many years in the mountains capturing the infinite beauty of nature, my search is now more focused, more demanding. I seek to immortalize the exceptional. On this impressive panorama, the mythical summits of the Swiss Alps appear gigantic. Here, the mountains play the leading role and their visual impact is important. The photography, very graphic, highlights this succession of prestigious peaks by a very interesting play of forms. The summits seem to overlap, forming an impassable rocky barrier in the heart of the Swiss Alps. The play of light and shadow intensifies this sensation, offering the mountain the possibility to display its strength and charisma.