Russian photographer becomes Internet sensation by following his dream
Here at Shoot The Centerfold, we believe that following your dreams is one of the best ways to reach your goals. Russian photographer Vadim Makhorov did just that and was able to capture images of a lifetime. Not many others (if any) can say the same. While this is a completely different category than we would usually discuss here at the STC, the concept of following your dreams and being successful at it is what STC is all about. Two thumbs up for Vadim Makhorov! We do not recommend that photographers go and break the law as Vadim did, but for the sake of some unforgettable, compelling, vertigo-inducing (not to mention highly dangerous) images, let’s just say we have all done quite a few crazy things in our careers.
By Frances Cha CNN
An Internet sensation was touched off this week by Russian photographer Vadim Makhorov and a group of his friends — the group ignored regulations prohibiting the public from climbing on the Pyramids at Giza, Egypt, and came away with spectacular photos.
Taken on top of the Pyramids from positions clearly taken to avoid detection by guards, the photos have incited reactions ranging from envy and awe to indignation and concern for the preservation of the ancient wonders.
In an email to CNN, Makhorov now explains his reasons for flaunting the regulations, and issues an apology to Egypt and the world.
Vadim Makhorov’s email to CNN
“I’ve always been drawn to Egypt. For as long as I can remember my dream was to get to the top of the Great Pyramid of Giza.
“When my friends and I arrived in Cairo the first thing we decided to do was to go and see the pyramids. We got there in the evening, just in time to witness the laser show.
“No words can express the fascination I felt when seeing my childhood dream come alive. Probably this very feeling made us climb onto the top of the Pyramid and see the the panorama of the whole complex, the desert and Cairo itself.
“It was already pitch black and nobody paid us any attention. We started climbing as fast and as soundless as we could. You have to be quite strong and agile to climb onto a meter-high block covered with dust.
“It was exhausting, but the thought that we were going to witness something spectacular pushed us forward.
“It took us around 20 minutes to get to the top. We were taken breathless by the view.
“What we saw from up there was the seventh wonder of the world. We tried to capture the beauty of the scenery in the photos, so that the others could also see this magnificent panorama.
“We, of course, were not the first who dared to climb the pyramid.
“The pyramid’s peak was filled with different inscriptions in many languages, some of them being hundreds years old.
“After enjoying the view for some time we started the descent. It turned out to be harder then climbing up. We were very lucky not to get [caught]. We would have been in serious trouble if we did.
“That’s why I would like to apologize for this ascension. We didn’t want to insult anyone. We were just following the dream.”
