Ethiopian shepherd

This young lady was tending her family's sheep in the high mountains above Lalibela.

I was travelling the region with a group of my friends, and we were walking an ancient road used by the villagers and farmers to travel to the town of Lalibela, where they would trade their produce (which they carried on their backs).

This shepherd was too shy to approach our group, but I was alone, trailing several minutes behind, taking photos of everything that caught my eye, and - as I passed - she held my gaze long enough to indicate a willingness to interact. I'd been doling out cash all day to those willing to pose for portraits, and I think she was the second-last beneficiary before I found nothing but fluff and lint remaining in my pocket!

I took a number of images, mostly full-body portraits, but it was her unwavering gaze and the trinkets around her neck (inc. crucifix - Ethiopia is a VERY religious country!), as well as the single sun-induced tear rolling down her cheek (you have to look hard for it) that I chose to focus on. She made a wonderful subject and this is undoubtedly my favourite portrait from the whole visit to this amazing place.
Read less