Great portrait of this monk and I really like hearing what you did there. Excellent composition on this one. I like the chipping paint and the colors.

With those joysticks, sounds like you were at the controls of a far out game where monks are being attacked by evil westeners. I would say the berries were good in Thailand. The monk looks like he knows something. In reality this is a very good photo of a person who has given of his life to worship. Number on your prediction probably corresponds to the scores the cows have been giving. Good post Nigel.

:)Tick

It's sounds to me like you had a very cultural experience on your trip. This is a type of photo you would see in National Geographic, with a story that you could probably write for the magazine. Well, done, and thanks for the narative, also.

Jim

the monk makes a great subject, unfortunately the door is so bright and strong, it actually pulls the eye from him. Though I really love the detailing in the door, I'd be tempted to remove it to frame the monk better. Must have been a great trip and thanks for sharing.

Terrific clarity and focusing Nigel,wonderful shot indeed.
Hindu god along with Buddha images! I have never seen
before. Thanks for sharing.
Great work Nigel.

Peace in his own self!...He looks revered, don't he!...

Excellent use of camera work pal!..some fine stuff coming from you1

A fine shot, Nigel! The lighting seems perect despite the shadows behind your subject. His robe is is softly shadowed in the the folds. I tend to agree with the comment made about the brightness of the door, but the added color and texture may override.

I really like this Nigel! You can see the kindness in his face - you have captured his expression perfectly. I would not delete the door for obvious reasons.

A most excellent portrait Nigel. His face is so serene.
What I find most fascinating about this picture is his hands - they would make a wonderful study just by themselves.
I like the door - the contrast of its intricacy and the plain folds of the white robe is good.
Enjoyed your narrative too :)

Very impressive, Nigel. I love the look on his face and the lighting as well. Others have commented already on the composition of the door and such. There are very many interesting elements here that would all stand on their own, but together make an arresting photo.

I never realized you were so tall ;)

:)PJ

i love this shot, the look on his face, and the same as lyneve,i agree his hands would make a cool pic just on their own too, he looks wise and kind! i faved it. you captured his essense well.

A great human shot, Nigel with a fantastic narrative.

This image went to my favorites right after you posted it Nigel...even before I had a chance to comment! The monks face is a study in serenity. The simplicity of his robe and the peeling paint provide the perfect contrast for the silver leafed appearing door as well as the garish red paint. what a contrast in textures and colors this is duality all the way! Stunning image of yours my friend. I don't freely or often give out tens in the voting booth, but if this should appear in front of me, it would get it.
Love the composition here, colors already mentioned above, high quality and great clarity are visible.
I declare this a winner and expect to see it on the front page as a 'top new image'.
thank you so much for sharing your holiday with me. I am enjoying it as well ;=)

Pictures that have a religious theme and a story behind them are always a favorite for me, so of course I had to put this in my favorites. I agree that the red and the door take away from the man, but they are beautiful nonetheless.