Murad Osmann

Murad Osmann (born Murad Yusupovich Osmanov on May 15, 1985) is a Russian photographer, film producer, and digital content creator best known as the co-creator of the viral #FollowMeTo travel photo series. Raised in Moscow after early childhood in Dagestan, Osmann initially studied civil engineering in England before establishing a career in visual media. Alongside his wife, Natalia Zakharova, Osmann transformed a spontaneous vacation picture into one of the most recognized lifestyle photography franchises on social media.

Early Life and Education

Osmann was born in Dagestan, Russia, and moved with his family to Moscow in 1990 at the age of five. Developing a keen interest in visual storytelling during his youth, he experimented with photography and digital arts. In 2001, he relocated to the United Kingdom to attend Imperial College London, graduating with a degree in civil engineering. Despite his technical background, Osmann chose to pursue his creative passion, returning to film production and commercial photography after completing his university studies.

The #FollowMeTo Breakthrough

Osmann achieved global prominence in 2011 during a trip to Barcelona with his then-girlfriend Natalia. Annoyed by his constant photo stops, Natalia grabbed his hand to pull him forward, prompting Osmann to capture a photograph from his perspective of her leading him by the hand. This signature pose became the foundation of the #FollowMeTo project. The visually rich series features Natalia guiding Osmann through picturesque international destinations, creating a distinctive aesthetic that captivated millions of social media users worldwide.

Production Career and Media Expansion

Beyond his social media presence, Osmann co-founded Hype Production, a Moscow-based production house where he works as an executive producer overseeing commercial campaigns, music videos, and cinematic projects. The success of #FollowMeTo allowed Osmann and his wife to expand their brand into published travel books, a television series on Channel One Russia, and brand collaborations with global luxury labels. Recognized by Forbes as top international travel influencers, the couple continues to share destination content across Instagram and YouTube.

Personal Life

Osmann married journalist and blogger Natalia Zakharova in June 2015, holding wedding celebrations in Moscow and Dagestan. Based in Moscow, Russia, the couple continues to travel globally while producing creative projects together.