Only a True Marksman Can Spot the Hidden Sniper in This Photo

If you recall the fun of searching for Waldo in those classic “Where’s Waldo” books, you might like this too. A photographer has gained recognition for capturing images of military snipers—or at least trying to. He approaches the snipers and asks them to put on their best camouflage and remain as concealed as possible. The challenge? To spot the hidden sniper in the photo.

The photographer

In the military, snipers hold one of the stealthiest and most challenging roles. It takes serious skill in hide-and-seek, along with immense patience, to stay concealed for long stretches of time. Photographer Simon Menner has turned this skill into a visual game by capturing marksmen in action. At first glance, many of his photos look like ordinary, even dull, landscape shots.

But the real challenge lies in spotting the sniper hidden within the frame. Viewers are often amazed at how expertly these soldiers blend into their surroundings. People pore over the images, carefully examining every detail with their eyes. Yet in real life, you wouldn’t have the luxury to do this — by the time you notice, it might already be too late, as danger silently waits just out of sight.

Hidden in Plain Sight: The Sniper Challenge

It all began between 2010 and 2013 when Simon Menner sought permission to photograph the German military, focusing specifically on the marksmen. Then, in 2022, he traveled to Lithuania and Latvia to capture images of these snipers as they concealed themselves out of sight. The soldiers’ camouflage skills were so impressive that the photos quickly went viral online. Many viewers were stunned at how they couldn’t find the hidden marksman — a clear sign that these soldiers were excelling at their craft.

The snipers photographed weren’t actively engaged in battle during the shoot. Although Simon Menner staged the sessions, that didn’t mean they lacked effort or authenticity. In fact, the soldiers gave their all to remain perfectly concealed from his camera. “Even though it was staged, the snipers were determined to be truly hidden. For them, it was a matter of pride,” Simon explained.

Now, Simon is eager to photograph more snipers dressed in their camouflage, hiding in plain sight. He finds the entire project incredibly captivating. He’s even reached out, hoping to collaborate with the US military next. “If anyone from the US military is reading this, please get in touch,” he said. “People look at the photos, think they’ve found the sniper, then start doubting themselves. I find that fascinating.”

Examples

The internet is buzzing over these brain-teasing images. We’ve picked out a few of the most mind-boggling examples that left us truly stumped. Take a look at the photo below — can you spot the sniper hidden in plain sight?

Spotted him yet? Don’t worry if you haven’t — this sniper is exceptionally skilled at what he does. Take a closer look at the building in the image. On the second floor, hidden in the doorway, is where the sniper is positioned. He’s expertly blended into the background using camouflage, making him nearly impossible to detect at a glance.

In a real-world scenario, someone passing by wouldn’t have a chance to notice him before it was already too late.