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Photographer Regrets Windows XP 'Bliss' Deal Worth $100K

4/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In January 1996, while cruising through California, photographer Chuck O'Rear snapped the breathtaking 'Bliss,' a vibrant image of rolling green hills beneath a brilliant blue sky. This stunning shot became the beloved backdrop of Windows XP, yet O'Rear wishes he had negotiated a better deal with Microsoft, who purchased it for over $100,000.

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Story summary

In January 1996, while cruising through California, photographer Chuck O'Rear snapped the breathtaking 'Bliss,' a vibrant image of rolling green hills beneath a brilliant blue sky. This stunning shot became the beloved backdrop of Windows XP, yet O'Rear wishes he had negotiated a better deal with Microsoft, who purchased it for over $100,000.