4 years. This is how long it took to gather and coordinate the four Kamchatka photoshoot essentials: The best local team, four world-class kiteboarders, logistics (visas, permits, tickets, boat, tents, vehicles...), two photographers and a cameraman with unwavering dedication.

After all these years, I had this bad feeling that I was expecting too much, that only disappointment awaited me. The same feeling you get before a New Year's party full of false resolutions. So, it was with a heart full of passion and fear that I began this trip into the depths of Russia.

Located in the far east of Russia, Kamchatka is a huge volcanic peninsula covering 270,000 km². It was classified as an "ultra-secret" military zone at the end of the Second World War; the peninsula was therefore closed to visitors until the 90s. This has preserved the authenticity of the place and nature there has remained almost intact. Special permits are needed to venture from the capital and there is little to no infrastructure to get around. The Pacific coast receives swells and winds, and it was there that we would be hanging out.

Starring: Mallory de la VILLEMARQUE, Paul SERIN, Camille DELANNOY, Maxime CHABLOZ.
Edit/Cinematography: Petole prod - Olivier SAUTET.
Photography: Robin CHRISTOL / Matt GEORGES.

Music in order of appearance:
Les Chœurs de l'Armée Rouge - Kalinka
The Palms - Push off
Henry the Archer - War
Emerson Lake and Palmer - From the Beginning
Les Chœurs de l'Armée Rouge - Bruit des Vagues

Special thanks to Kristina, Eugeny, Nikolay, Sergey, Peleken agency.