The ‘Most-Viewed’ Picture Ever

Chuck O’Rear, the photographer behind the world’s “most-viewed” picture, captured the iconic image by chance while on his way to visit his now-wife. This spontaneous moment occurred in January 1996 as O’Rear was driving from his home in St Helena to Marin County.

Unlike many photographers who spend extensive time and effort seeking the perfect shot, O’Rear’s renowned photograph, known as ‘Bliss,’ was a result of being in the right place at the right time. As an experienced photographer, O’Rear always carried his camera, believing that one should “always be prepared” because “you never know” when a picturesque moment might appear.

During his drive, O’Rear was captivated by the beautiful scenery and instinctively pulled over to capture the view. Reflecting on that journey, he shared, “I used to pull over often to take photos. The scenery there was so beautiful.”

The image, ‘Bliss,’ features rolling green hills bathed in light, with a smattering of clouds above—a simple yet timeless scene. For many, especially those who grew up using Microsoft products, this image is deeply familiar. It was the default background for PCs running Windows XP from 2001 to 2007, becoming a staple of office and computer room décor in the 2000s. The serene picture made powering up a computer a more peaceful experience.

Interestingly, despite its serene simplicity and widespread fame, many believed the image was altered or digitally enhanced. However, O’Rear’s ‘Bliss’ is entirely untouched, capturing nature’s beauty in its purest form. The photograph, viewed by over one billion people, remains a testament to the power of being prepared and the magic of spontaneous moments.