A vertiginous portrait of the Cime de l'Est, a magnificent mountain in the Valais Alps, Switzerland. The easternmost spur of the Dents du Midi massif reaches an altitude of 3179 metres. Often mistaken for the Matterhorn, summit is rarely seen from this angle. This vertical panoramic photograph highlights the infinite grandeur of the Cime de l'Est. A sentinel guarding the entrance to the Rhône valley, it introduces people to the splendour of the high mountains that abound in the region.

I took this black-and-white photograph at dawn, when the stormy winds had just blanketed summit with snow. I'd had this photograph in mind for so many years! I spent a long time studying the effects of the sun on the wall. The play of light and shadow, drawing the edges to convey a sense of depth and verticality. The ideal angle of view to highlight the mountain's incredible charisma. I visualized this portrait, obsessed by its beauty, and it had to come to life. I knew this day would come. In the early morning, as night retreated, the Cime de l'Est was lost in the clouds. But I sensed that nature was ready to grant my wish. So I waited, my heart confident and my soul feverish. Then, as the minutes ticked by, the mist parted, gradually giving way to the sun. With the eastern face of the mountain thus illuminated, I could finally realize the picture I'd been dreaming of. The Cime de l'Est, like a sharp arrow piercing the clouds and reaching for the sky.