http://www.denverpost.com/commented/ci_11406655?source=commented-newsCompany apologizes for photos of Vail skier in distress
By Tom McGhee
The Denver Post
Posted: 01/08/2009 10:35:18 AM MST
Updated: 01/08/2009 05:12:25 PM MST
The company that employs a photographer who shot embarrassing pictures of a half naked skier dangling from a Vail ski lift has suspended the shooter and issued a public apology.Since professional photographer Marty Odom shot the pictures of the unnamed skier, who hung upside down from the lift with his pants below his knees, they have made a splash on the Internet and numerous news programs.
"SharpShooter Imaging deeply regrets any embarrassment the unauthorized taking and subsequent release of this photograph may have caused to the guest involved and all other guests and employees of Vail Resort. It is our strict company policy to respect the privacy of all resort guests," the company's spokesman, David Peri, said in a written
* See "The Smoking Gun's" photos of the unfortunate skier. Note: Images may be inappropriate for some readers.
Odom breached company policy by releasing the photos he took while on duty without permission and could lose his job. The company is still investigating the incident.
On Wednesday, he said on a snowboarding website that the photos were "worth it." The shots represent his best work of the season, he said.