Renowned Brazilian photographer Sebastiao Salgado dies at 81

Brazilian photographer Sebastiao Salgado, known for his impactful black-and-white images capturing human suffering and environmental destruction, passed away at the age of 81 on Friday. The non-profit organization Instituto Terra, which he co-founded with his wife Lelia Wanick Salgado, confirmed his death, highlighting his significant contributions beyond just photography. Salgado’s work spanned over five decades and included powerful images from more than 130 countries, often shedding light on the plight of the less fortunate. His recent focus on the Amazon rainforest in his book “Amazonia” aimed to showcase its beauty and diversity while also raising awareness about the threats it faces. Salgado’s legacy extends beyond his photography, as he actively participated in environmental restoration efforts, planting millions of trees on his family farm in Minas Gerais. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva paid tribute to Salgado, recognizing his work as a poignant reminder for humanity to act responsibly towards the planet. Born in rural Brazil, Salgado’s journey from an economist to a renowned photographer reflects his deep commitment to social and environmental causes.