Here, waiting patiently for their lunchtime portion of white rice, are the pink- clad nuns at a monastery school near Yangon. They range in age from 6 to 18. The little nun in the middle caught everyone's attention. Not only was she one of the smallest and prettiest in line, she had the best facial expressions. I loved the position of her hands in this shot.
It's amazing to see the young women (children in some cases) lined up like this, so comfortable about being photographed. Were they used to visitors? Or did someone pave the way for you to photograph them.
Wonderful capture! You didn't have to wake up at the crack of dawn for this, did you?! We waited for the monks to come out for their morning alms in Laos in the middle of the night wrapped up in blankets trying to stay warm! This looks like a more reasonable time!
Apologies Elizabeth - only just catching up on your trip. It looks totally amazing. What do you make of Thailand? We were there in June. Which country do you prefer?
Such expressive faces! Each one's individuality shines through despite the sameness of their dress, shaved heads, and flip flops. Your portrait work has been a treat. I've really been enjoying the images from your fabulous trip!
@stownsend Yes. Many children in Burma spend time in the monastery schools but they always have the option to go home to their families. Some go in and out several times, get their education, then leave when they're teens. It's not compulsory to stay in forever.
@net We had a wonderful few days in Bangkok but spent most of our trip in Burma. Burma was unique and less developed than the huge modern city of Bangkok. I liked them both.
@taffy I think the children may have had other visitors with cameras but I found that all the people we encountered were comfortable, almost nonchalant about being photographed. Not self-conscious at all.
Delightful capture...and you are right about the little one in the middle. Do they commit to being nuns at such a young age, or is that decision not theirs? This is such a wonderful shot Elizabeth. What a fabulous adventure you are having.
