In the realm of photography, there are moments that require not only skill and precision but also a dash of luck. One such extraordinary moment has recently made waves across the globe, as photographer Leonardo Sens finally succeeded in capturing an awe-inspiring image of Christ The Redeemer seemingly ‘holding’ the moon with both hands. This remarkable shot comes after three years of dedicated attempts that ended in frustration, making the triumph all the more sweet.
Christ The Redeemer, an iconic masterpiece of architecture nestled in Brazil, has long been a subject of fascination for photographers and tourists alike. Constructed over a nine-year period between 1922 and 1931, the statue stands an impressive 30 meters (98 feet) tall, not accounting for its 8-meter (26-foot) pedestal. With arms outstretched to a wingspan of 92 feet, this breathtaking monument is crafted from a combination of reinforced concrete and soapstone, serving as a symbol of both religious devotion and artistic brilliance.
From the 1930s onwards, photographers spanning the globe have aimed their lenses at this monumental structure, capturing it from countless angles and perspectives. Earlier this year, a photograph of Christ The Redeemer struck by a bolt of lightning during the night went viral, mesmerizing online audiences with its perfectly timed beauty. The image, skillfully taken by Fernando Braga on February 10, captivated millions, becoming a testament to the power of nature’s spectacle and the human eye behind the lens.
Adding to the visual chronicle of Christ The Redeemer’s captivating presence, a recent photograph has gained immense popularity for its unique portrayal of the statue alongside the moon’s descent. In a captivating display of persistence and meticulous planning, Leonardo Sens managed to frame an image that conveys the illusion of the statue ‘holding’ the moon with its extended arms. This elusive shot, captured on May 4 from Icaraí Beach in the Rio de Janeiro municipality of Niterói – a good seven miles away from the statue – stands as a testament to the photographer’s patience and unwavering dedication.
The brilliance of Sens’ photograph lies not only in the convergence of two celestial bodies but in the calculated positioning that creates the illusion. The moon, seemingly perched directly above the statue, aligns perfectly with the outstretched arms, forming an otherworldly tableau that defies belief. The photographer, speaking to Brazilian news outlet G1, revealed the process behind the image. “In the end, everything went well and I was able to register the long-awaited photo,” he expressed, echoing the satisfaction that comes from conquering a challenge long in the making.
Sens’ connection with photography and the Rio de Janeiro region dates back to 2005, marking nearly two decades of capturing moments both mundane and extraordinary. For this particular shot, his careful preparation and meticulous study of the moon’s trajectory were key to achieving the desired alignment. With dedication that spans years and the precision of a true artist, he recounted his experience, stating, “I went early at the planned time. All I had to do was adjust the tripod and wait for the moon to align.”
In the world of photography, the interplay between technical prowess, artistic vision, and the unpredictable nature of the subjects can culminate in masterpieces that captivate the world. Leonardo Sens’ triumphant image of Christ The Redeemer embracing the moon showcases not only his skills but also the enduring allure of the natural and man-made wonders that surround us. It serves as a reminder that with dedication, patience, and the lens of a visionary, even the most elusive and breathtaking moments can be forever etched in time.