The Flying Monk received third prize in The Independent Photographer’s competition, judged by Michael Yamashita.
Made at Shaolin Monastery in China, the photograph holds a fleeting moment within a highly disciplined space. Three monks appear across the frame: one stretching, one seemingly walking above the younger monks below, and one almost concealed at the far edge.
The editors’ response
The Independent Photographer editors praised the way the composition leads the eye from left to right. They highlighted the worn red wall, patterned stone roof, green trees and yellow robes, describing the result as richly textured and painterly, and the passing moment as perfectly preserved.
My thanks to Michael Yamashita, the jury and the editors of The Independent Photographer for recognising the work.
