A chance shot
O'Rear was driving to see his girlfriend when he noticed a fresh green hill after the winter rains. He stopped, took a few shots and drove on. A few years later Microsoft bought the photo.
For how much
Microsoft paid for the rights a sum the photographer is not allowed to disclose, but it is said to be one of the highest prices ever paid for a photograph. Courier companies refused to insure the original film, so O'Rear flew it to Microsoft in person.
Today
A vineyard now grows on the spot, so the hill no longer looks the same. Support for Windows XP ended in 2014, but Bliss has remained an icon that millions of people recognise.