Emilio Morenatti, a renowned photographer from Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, and a two-time Pulitzer Prize recipient, has built an impressive portfolio over his 30-year career, spanning more than 50 countries. He recently shared his insights about capturing the vibrant tradition of “Castells,” which takes place in his homeland.

The “Castells,” a grand competition of human towers, stands as one of Catalonia’s most significant cultural traditions. This exhilarating event is hosted in a historic bullring located in Tarragona, where various “collas,” or teams, compete over the weekend to construct the tallest and most impressive human towers. Some of these towering structures soar to heights exceeding 16 meters (approximately 52.5 feet), requiring the coordinated efforts of over 1,000 participants moving in precise formation to achieve stability.

Morenatti explained the technique behind his striking photograph; contrary to appearing as if taken with a drone, it was actually shot from a narrow catwalk suspended approximately 30 meters (98 feet) above the ground. He utilized a 17mm wide-angle lens mounted on a Sony Alpha 1 camera. Working at such heights necessitates wearing a safety harness and possessing a strong resolve to confront any fears associated with heights. Adding to the challenge, Morenatti has struggled with vertigo since losing a leg in a Taliban attack in Afghanistan; thus, navigating the unstable catwalk demanded even greater focus and composure.

The impact of the photograph can largely be attributed to the dynamic interplay of light and shadow. Morenatti noted that a beam of sunlight uniquely illuminated the apex of the human tower, setting it apart from the darker surroundings. This effect was not accidental; he had been keenly observing the gradual emergence of sunlight entering the arena throughout the morning. It was a matter of timing and patience to capture the moment when one of the towers would align perfectly with the light. As the tower ascended, it drew closer to the beam, and by the time the final participant—a young girl of six—lifted her arm in triumph, Morenatti recognized it was the precise moment he had been anticipating.

Through the combination of strategic planning, timing, and an understanding of visual storytelling, Morenatti successfully captured a striking image that embodies the spirit of this cherished Catalan tradition.