Author(s): Gisele Bundchen

Photography

Super Mario does marvelous Rio. Inspired by the girls from Copacabana. Mario Testino is one of the most successful fashion and portrait photographers alive, whose iconic images of the world's most famous women - including Diana, Princess of Wales, Kate Moss, and Madonna - are noted for their freshness and intimacy. Though born in Lima, Peru, Testino has always been fascinated by Rio de Janeiro, where he spent his earliest summer vactions. The easy sensuality, sexual freedom and lust for life left a deep impression. 'When I was 14, on holiday, and going from my house to the beach and seeing everyone walk everywhere in their tiny bathing suits - the girls were so sexy and carefree and wild - I just could not believe it'. Testino has been going back to Rio ever since - for work and fun - and has compiled an unrivaled photographic archive depicting the people, places and passion of the Brazilian metropolis. Rio de Janeiro is his tribute to one of the world's most extraordinary and beautiful cities and its citizens.
From Copacabana's beaches to Ipanema's baixos, from penthouse to favela via the world's most famous carnival parade - this is Testino's love poem to the city that captured his teenage heart, and never let go.