In February 2004, Spanish photographer Jaime Rojo embarked on a journey that would span two decades. While hiking in Sierra Chincua, Mexico, a sanctuary for millions of migrating monarch butterflies, he encountered a breathtaking spectacle. A swarm of butterflies flew overhead, creating a faint breeze with their fluttering wings. This moment inspired Rojo to dedicate himself to capturing the beauty and chaos of monarch butterflies through his photography.
One of Rojo's most challenging shots took 20,000 attempts. He aimed to capture butterflies in flight against the backdrop of the deep green oyamel fir forest and the blue sky. The task was difficult; butterflies often landed on him, tangling in his hair and on his camera lens. Despite the challenges, Rojo persevered, believing this image best represented the monarchs' spirit, their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and sheer numbers.
Rojo's work extended beyond Mexico. He followed the monarchs' migration from Canada, documenting their lifecycle and the environments they inhabit. In Minnesota, his daughters helped him find a caterpillar under a milkweed leaf, resulting in a striking image that highlighted the impact of farmland on milkweed habitats. He also photographed the interplay between monarchs and humans, such as a PhD student studying the effects of cattle grazing on monarchs.
Over the years, Rojo experimented with various photographic techniques, though he often avoided close-ups. One of his rare macro images captured the translucence of a monarch's wings, showcasing the delicate beauty of these creatures. His dedication to capturing the perfect shot led him to spend hours tracking a single streak of sunlight through the forest, waiting for the ideal moment to photograph the butterflies.