Don Saunderson, Morning Melodies at Thai Vi Temple (PEOPLE 2025)

Captured in the gentle light of early morning at Thai Vi Temple, Ninh Binh, Vietnam, this portrait reveals an elderly musician immersed in his art. With deep concentration, he plays the Đàn hồ—a traditional Vietnamese bowed string instrument known for its expressive, resonant tones. His weathered hands and contemplative gaze, set against the textured bamboo and ancient temple backdrop, evoke the enduring spirit of Vietnamese culture.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.