Brazilian photographer Sebastião Salgado, known for his powerful and moving images of social and environmental issues, passed away on May 23, 2025 at the age of 81. His death marks the end of an era in the world of photography and leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Born in 1944 in Aimorés, Brazil, Salgado began his career as an economist before turning to photography in the 1970s. He quickly gained recognition for his stunning black and white images that captured the human condition in all its rawness and beauty. His work often focused on marginalized communities and the impact of globalization on their lives.

Throughout his career, Salgado traveled to over 100 countries, documenting the struggles and triumphs of people from all walks of life. He was a master of capturing the essence of humanity in his photographs, whether it was the resilience of refugees, the strength of indigenous communities, or the struggles of workers in the face of industrialization.

Salgado’s photographs were not just aesthetically pleasing, they also had a powerful message behind them. He used his camera as a tool for social change, shining a light on issues that were often overlooked or ignored by the mainstream media. His images were a call to action, urging viewers to take notice and make a difference.

In 1994, Salgado and his wife Lélia founded the Instituto Terra, a non-profit organization dedicated to the restoration and preservation of the Atlantic Forest in Brazil. The couple’s passion for environmental conservation was reflected in Salgado’s later works, which focused on the devastating effects of deforestation and climate change.

Salgado’s impact on the world of photography cannot be overstated. He was a master storyteller, using his lens to capture the human experience in all its complexities. His images were not just photographs, they were windows into the lives of people and communities that many of us may never have had the chance to see.

His work has been featured in numerous exhibitions and publications, and he has received countless awards and accolades throughout his career. In 2019, he was awarded the prestigious Peace Prize of the German Book Trade for his contribution to social justice and peace through his photography.

Salgado’s passing has left a void in the world of photography, but his legacy will continue to live on through his powerful images and the impact they have had on the world. He will be remembered not just as a talented photographer, but also as a humanitarian and activist who used his art to make a difference.

As we mourn the loss of this great artist, let us also celebrate his life and the incredible body of work he has left behind. Let us be inspired by his passion, his dedication, and his unwavering commitment to using his art for the greater good.

In episode 43 of Stories of Resistance, we bid farewell to Sebastião Salgado, a true legend in the world of photography. His images will continue to serve as a reminder of the power of art to create change and inspire us to be agents of positive change in our own communities. Rest in peace, Sebastião Salgado, your legacy will live on forever.