Lunch on the porch Photo

Photographer’s Note

I met several of the monks while wandering through Wat Bo Langka, the largest working temple and monastery in Siem Reap. This guy and his friend were eating lunch on their porch and invited me to join them for some food. They spoke fairly good English and I found them to be intelligent and friendly. We found that virtually everyone we met in Cambodia was friendly.

Tourism is becoming increasingly important to the economy and many monasteries host foreign language schools. Some of the monks are teachers and many are language students that will spend a few years getting an education then move on to other things.

Yes, I know, his jet black hair disappears against the shadows in his doorway; his room has shutters, not glass windows.

ISO 50 used, cropped but otherwise "as is"

ChrisJ has marked this note useful

Critiques | Translate

devimeuxbe (55800) 2005-05-05 5:55

Hi Ian
I like your beautifull capture. This monk look happy to eat his simple rice.
Nice colors and light.
It's really well done
Bertrand

ngythanh (8492) 2005-05-05 6:08

Very well composed and colors. I wish the monk looks at you!

But this is a success anyway. Thanks for sharing, Ian!

Thanh

kevinos (6925) 2005-05-05 7:30

This is a great portrait, Ian,with a wonderully candid expression.It's well composed and framed very well.

RGatward (19737) 2005-05-05 12:19

Oh I see you changed your mind. I don't think the loss of head line matters much in this, you've caught great expression which appears to be him enjoying his food.

Friendliness of people in Siem Reap, is, indeed, very noteworthy. I was a bit suspicious at first, after the odd hustler out at the temples, but mostly they're interested in other people, and want to practice their English.

ChrisJ (69921) 2005-05-06 3:47

Hi Ian

A superb portrait, with excellent lighting, sharpness, dof, & graphism. Also a very good daily life shot. The 'bleeding' doesn't bother me here. Well done!

jajko (572) 2005-05-06 10:04