Show Navigation

Search Results

Refine Search
Match all words
Match any word
Prints
Personal Use
Royalty-Free
Rights-Managed
(leave unchecked to
search all images)
{ 2775 images found }

Loading ()...

  • Two Mouchi ethnic minority women (sisters) sew traditional clothing outside their home in Ban Nam Sa, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR.  One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups.  These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0014198cc_1.jpg
  • Daw Mu Htan picking cotton and removing the seeds in the ethnic Kayan village of Lo Ka Na village, Panpet, Kayah State, Myanmar on 13th November 2016. Myanmar is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia with 135 different indigenous ethnic groups. There are over a dozen ethnic Karenni subgroups in the region including the Kayan who are perhaps the best known due to the traditional practice of the Kayan women extending their necks with brass rings . Myanmar is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia with 135 different indigenous ethnic groups. There are over a dozen ethnic Karenni subgroups in the region including the Kayan who are perhaps the best known due to the traditional practice of the Kayan women extending their necks with brass rings photo by Tessa Bunney/In Pictures via Getty Images
    A0034943cc_1.jpg
  • In the remote Akha Nuquie ethnic minority village of Ban Chakhampa, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR, women's first task of the day is to collect water using a gourd scoop and carry it back to the village in traditional bamboo water carriers. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    DSCF4668cc_1.jpg
  • Pheng prepares an indigo dye bath in traditional ceramic pots for dyeing cotton skeins in the Tai Lue village of Ban Viengkao, Sayaboury province, Lao PDR. Indigo dye is made from the fresh leaves and stem of the indigo plant which are fermented and then mixed with limestone to turn it the distinctive blue colour. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0029159cc_1.jpg
  • Meuay, a Iu Mien (Yao) ethnic minority woman laying cotton fabric dyed with indigo dye out in the sun to dry, Ban Hom Phan, Houaphan province, Lao PDR. Meuay buys the cotton fabric from a nearby Tai Deng village and after dyeing the fabric many times to build up the colour to a dark blue/black she sells to local Iu Mien women to make their traditional clothing. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0026985cc_1.jpg
  • Boiling indigo dyed cotton fabric in Mak Bao (a trailing forest fruit) to fix the colour in Ban Hom Phan, a Iu Mien village in Houaphan province, Lao PDR. The cotton fabric is purchased from a nearby Tai Deng village and after dyeing the fabric many times to build up the colour it is sold to local Iu Mien women to make their traditional clothing. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0026981cc_1.jpg
  • Meuay, a Iu Mien (Yao) ethnic minority woman removing a length of indigo dyed cotton fabric from a vat of Mak Bao (a trailing forest fruit) used to fix the colour, Ban Hom Phan, Houaphan province, Lao PDR. Meuay buys the cotton fabric from a nearby Tai Deng village and after dyeing the fabric many times to build up the colour she sells to local Iu Mien women to make their traditional clothing. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0026973cc_1.jpg
  • Meuay, a Iu Mien (Yao) ethnic minority woman boiling indigo dyed cotton fabric in Mak Bao (a trailing forest fruit) to fix the colour, Ban Hom Phan, Houaphan province, Lao PDR. Meuay buys the cotton fabric from a nearby Tai Deng village and after dyeing the fabric many times to build up the colour she sells to local Iu Mien women to make their traditional clothing. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0026965cc_1.jpg
  • Freshly caught catfish which the boatmen/fishermen caught by electric fishing in the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025998cc_1.jpg
  • Traditional Tai Lue ethnic minority weaving hanging outside a bamboo house in Ban Hathin, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The remote and roadless village of Ban Hathin is situated along the Nam Ou river (a tributary of the Mekong) and will be relocated due to the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 7. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025829cc_1.jpg
  • Phonekham (15) and Chom (15) studying at the lower secondary school in the Tai Lue village of Ban Hathin, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The remote and roadless village of Ban Hathin is situated along the Nam Ou river (a tributary of the Mekong) and will be relocated due to the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 7. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025818cc_1.jpg
  • A Laoseng minority woman prepares rice for cooking outside her home in the remote and roadless village of Ban Phouxoum, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. Ban Phouxoum is situated along the Nam Ou river (a tributary of the Mekong) and has been temporarily relocated due to the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 6. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025761cc_1.jpg
  • A Laoseng minority woman prepares rice for cooking outside her home in the remote and roadless village of Ban Phouxoum, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. Ban Phouxoum is situated along the Nam Ou river (a tributary of the Mekong) and has been temporarily relocated due to the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 6. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025756cc_1.jpg
  • A Laoseng minority woman smoking a homemade cigarette in her home in the remote and roadless village of Ban Phouxoum, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. Ban Phouxoum is situated along the Nam Ou river (a tributary of the Mekong) and has been temporarily relocated due to the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 6. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025726cc_1.jpg
  • A Laoseng minority woman rolling a cigarette in her home in the remote and roadless village of Ban Phouxoum, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. Ban Phouxoum is situated along the Nam Ou river (a tributary of the Mekong) and has been temporarily relocated due to the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 6. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025718cc_1.jpg
  • A Laoseng ethnic minority woman returns to the old village to collect firewood after her village of Ban Watai has been temporarily relocated away from the Nam Ou river, during the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 6, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. It is a place where children play and families bathe, where men fish and women wash their clothes. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into “the battery of Southeast Asia” by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0024675cc_1.jpg
  • A reel of hand spun cotton on a piece of rice straw, Ban Nam Lue, Luang Namtha province, Lao PDR. The Lanten or Yao Mun are a small but distinctive group of the Yao ethnic minority residing in northern Laos, Vietnam and China.  Maintaining a strong cultural identity, they are easily recognised by their hand woven, indigo dyed attire. Unlike many other ethnic groups who have relinquished their traditional dress, each Mun family still cultivates cotton and indigo for spinning, weaving, dyeing and sewing into clothing. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A 5734_1_1.jpg
  • A Lanten ethnic minority woman sews traditional clothing outside her home, Ban Nam Chang, Bokeo province, Lao PDR. The Lanten or Yao Mun are a small but distinctive group of the Yao ethnic minority residing in northern Laos, Vietnam and China.  Maintaining a strong cultural identity, they are easily recognised by their hand woven, indigo dyed attire. Unlike many other ethnic groups who have relinquished their traditional dress, each Mun family still cultivates cotton and indigo for spinning, weaving, dyeing and sewing into clothing. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    29-01_1_1.jpg
  • A married Ko Pala ethnic minority woman wears her traditional costume at home, Ban Honglerk, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR. The brightly coloured, flamboyant costumes of the young Pala women are in contrast to the more conservative clothing of their elders. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.  Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0019967cc_1.jpg
  • A portrait of Laep, a Tai Dam ethnic minority woman and her young son in her home in Ban Nam Bone village, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. Tai Dam married women are easily recognised by their topknots, affixed with a silver hairpin and their tight-fighting blouses which can be one of many different colours. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0015512cc_1.jpg
  • A Ko Pala ethnic minority woman sews traditional clothing at Pak Nam Noi market, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0015491cc_1.jpg
  • A group of Akha Cherpia women and their children wearing a mixture of traditional and modern clothing in Ban Nam Hin village, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR.  One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0014224cc_1.jpg
  • Portrait of a 15 year old married Akha Nuquie ethnic minority woman sewing outside her home in Ban Pang Hok Kao village, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR.  She is wearing the Akha Nuquie traditional costume made from hand woven cotton and dyed with indigo and decoarated with hand embroidery typical of the Akha Nuquie sub-group; the high headdress distinguishes her as a married women. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0013863cc_1.jpg
  • A Ko Pala woman weaves home grown, organic cotton fabric on a basic loom outside her home in Ban Lao Li, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR.  In some areas, Pala women still grow, gin and spin cotton into thread and set up their looms outdoors for weaving cotton. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0013668cc_1.jpg
  • Portrait of a Ko Pala ethnic minority woman wearing her traditional clothing at Pak Nam Noi market, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0013614cc_1.jpg
  • Freshly picked cotton dries outside on a plastic sheet in an Akha Pouli ethnic minority village in Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR. In some areas, Akha women still grow, gin and spin cotton into thread. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A_11215cc_1.jpg
  • The Mekong river during the dry season in Sayaboury province, Lao PDR. The Mekong is a trans-boundary river in Southeast Asia, the source is in the Tibetan plateau and it then flows through China's Yunnan province, Burma (Myanmar), Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. At around 4,350 km (2,703 miles) long, it is the world's 12th-longest river and the 7th-longest in Asia.
    DSCF4820cc_1.jpg
  • The Mekong river during the dry season in Sayaboury province, Lao PDR. The Mekong is a trans-boundary river in Southeast Asia, the source is in the Tibetan plateau and it then flows through China's Yunnan province, Burma (Myanmar), Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. At around 4,350 km (2,703 miles) long, it is the world's 12th-longest river and the 7th-longest in Asia.
    DSCF4818cc_1.jpg
  • Pheng dyeing homegrown cotton in an indigo dye bath in traditional ceramic pots in the Tai Lue village of Ban Viengkao, Sayaboury province, Lao PDR. Indigo dye is made from the fresh leaves and stem of the indigo plant which are fermented and then mixed with limestone to turn it the distinctive blue colour. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0029157cc_1.jpg
  • Pheng prepares an indigo dye bath in traditional ceramic pots for dyeing cotton fabric in the Tai Lue village of Ban Viengkao, Sayaboury province, Lao PDR. Indigo dye is made from the fresh leaves and stem of the indigo plant which are fermented and then mixed with limestone to turn it the distinctive blue colour. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0029154cc_1.jpg
  • A Tai Lue ethnic minority woman holds a skein of naturally coloured brown cotton, Ban Bimi, Sayaboury province, Lao PDR.  The Tai Lue are known as expert weavers particularly of cotton which they cultivate locally. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0029138cc_1.jpg
  • A portrait of an Akha Nuquie man in Ban Chalern, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Whilst Akha women still often wear their traditional clothing every day, men usually wear Western clothing.
    A0029015cc_1.jpg
  • In the remote Akha Nuquie ethnic minority village of Ban Peryenxangmai, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR, women's first task of the day is to collect water using a gourd scoop and carry it back to the village in traditional bamboo water carriers. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0028968cc_1.jpg
  • In the remote Akha Nuquie ethnic minority village of Ban Chakhampa, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR, women's first task of the day is to collect water and carry it back to the village in traditional bamboo water carriers. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0028936cc_1.jpg
  • Wearing her traditional clothing, Meuay, a Iu Mien (Yao) ethnic minority woman boils indigo dyed cotton fabric in Mak Bao (a trailing forest fruit) to fix the colour, Ban Hom Phan, Houaphan province, Lao PDR. Meuay buys the cotton fabric from a nearby Tai Deng village and after dyeing the fabric many times to build up the colour she sells to local Iu Mien women to make their traditional clothing. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0027015cc_1.jpg
  • Portrait of a Iu Mien (Yao) ethnic minority woman wearing her traditional clothing in Ban Hom Phan village, Houaphan province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0026991cc_1.jpg
  • Meuay, a Iu Mien (Yao) ethnic minority woman dyeing cotton fabric with indigo dye, Ban Hom Phan, Houaphan province, Lao PDR. Meuay buys the cotton fabric from a nearby Tai Deng village and after dyeing the fabric many times to build up the colour to a dark blue/black she sells it to local Iu Mien women to make their traditional clothing. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0026957cc_1.jpg
  • Meuay, a Iu Mien (Yao) ethnic minority woman boiling indigo dyed cotton fabric in Mak Bao (a trailing forest fruit) to fix the colour, Ban Hom Phan, Houaphan province, Lao PDR. Meuay buys the cotton fabric from a nearby Tai Deng village and after dyeing the fabric many times to build up the colour she sells it to local Iu Mien women to make their traditional clothing. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    A0026954cc_1.jpg
  • A 15 year old married Akha Nuquie ethnic minority woman sewing outside her home in Ban Pang Hok Kao village, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR.  She is wearing the Akha Nuquie traditional costume made from hand woven cotton and dyed with indigo and decoarated with hand embroidery typical of the Akha Nuquie sub-group; the high headdress distinguishes her as a married women. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0013871cc_1.jpg
  • Boatmen Sengkham and Savath navigate their boat up the rapids on the Nam Ou river during the dry season when the river level is low, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    L1080320cc_1.jpg
  • Boatmen Savath and Sengkham pull their boat up the rapids on the Nam Ou river during the dry season when the river level is low, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    L1080313cc_1.jpg
  • Boatmen Savath and Sengkham navigate their boat up the rapids using bamboo poles on the Nam Ou river during the dry season when the river level is low, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    L1080309cc_1.jpg
  • Boatmen Savath and Sengkham navigate their boat up the Nam Ou river using bamboo poles during the dry season when the river level is low, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0026025cc_1.jpg
  • Bamboo containers filled with fish by the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The fishermen will take them to the nearest village of Ban Tang to sell. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0026017cc_1.jpg
  • The boatmen/fishermen's lunch of sticky rice and freshly caught fish cooked over an open fire for lunch alongside the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0026015cc_1.jpg
  • Freshly caught fish cooking over an open fire which the boatmen/fishermen caught by electric fishing in the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0026013cc_1.jpg
  • Local boatman/fisherman, Savath prepares fish for cooking over an open fire which he has just caught by electric fishing in the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0026010cc_1.jpg
  • Local boatman/fisherman, Savath prepares fish for cooking over an open fire which he has just caught by electric fishing in the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0026009cc_1.jpg
  • Using the boat paddle as a chopping board, local boatman/fisherman, Savath prepares fish for cooking over an open fire which he has just caught by electric fishing in the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0026006cc_1.jpg
  • Using the boat paddle as a chopping board, local boatman/fisherman, Savath prepares fish for cooking over an open fire which he has just caught by electric fishing in the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0026000cc_1.jpg
  • Local boatman/fisherman, Savath cooks sticky rice for breakfast, the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025993cc_1.jpg
  • Boatmen Sengkham and Savath take a rest after pulling the boat up the rapids on the Nam Ou river during the dry season when the river level is low, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025983cc_1.jpg
  • Local boatmen/fishermen Savath and Sengkham prepare fish for cooking over an open fire which they have just caught by electric fishing in a small stream which flows into the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025962cc_1.jpg
  • Freshly caught fish which the boatmen/fishermen caught by electric fishing in a small stream flowing into the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025960cc_1.jpg
  • Traditional rice/maize milling equipment outside a house in the Hmong village of Ban Chalern, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The remote and roadless village of Ban Chalern is situated along the Nam Ou river (a tributary of the Mekong) and will be relocated due to the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 7. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025833cc_1.jpg
  • Tai Lue women weaving a bamboo mat, Ban Hathin, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The remote and roadless village of Ban Hathin is situated along the Nam Ou river (a tributary of the Mekong) and  will be relocated due to the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 7. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025823cc_1.jpg
  • Phonekham (15) and Chom (15) studying at the lower secondary school in the Tai Lue village of Ban Hathin, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The remote and roadless village of Ban Hathin is situated along the Nam Ou river (a tributary of the Mekong) and will be relocated due to the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 7. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025812cc_1.jpg
  • Boatman So checks the best route up the rapids on the Nam Ou river during the dry season when the river level is low, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025803cc_1.jpg
  • Boatman So's wife Boun prepares to throw her net into the Nam Ou river to catch fish, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025784cc_1.jpg
  • Local boatmen/fishermen cook wild deer meat and small fish which they have just caught by net in the Nam Ou river over an open fire, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025783cc_1.jpg
  • Boatman/fisherman So throws a small fishing net into the Nam Ou river to catch fish, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025781cc_1.jpg
  • Boatman So and his son Somvang push their boat through shallow rapids on the Nam Ou river during the dry season when the river level is low, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025776cc_1.jpg
  • Boatman So's son Sonmvang (18) takes a rest after pushing the boat up rapids on the Nam Ou river during the dry season when the river level is low, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025770cc_1.jpg
  • A Laoseng minority woman winnows rice outside her home in the remote and roadless village of Ban Phouxoum, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. Ban Phouxoum is situated along the Nam Ou river (a tributary of the Mekong) and has been temporarily relocated due to the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 6. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025759cc_1.jpg
  • A Laoseng minority woman in the doorway of her home in the remote and roadless village of Ban Phouxoum, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. Ban Phouxoum is situated along the Nam Ou river (a tributary of the Mekong) and has been temporarily relocated due to the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 6. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into ‘the battery of Southeast Asia’ by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0025758cc_1.jpg
  • A Laoseng ethnic minority man carries a bamboo house wall to the new village from the old village of Ban Phoumeuang  which is being temporarily relocated away from the Nam Ou river, during the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 6. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. It is a place where children play and families bathe, where men fish and women wash their clothes. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into “the battery of Southeast Asia” by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    L1080171cc_1.jpg
  • A Laoseng ethnic minority woman carries firewood in a traditional bamboo basket to the new village from the old village of Ban Phoumeuang  which is being temporarily relocated away from the Nam Ou river, during the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 6. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. It is a place where children play and families bathe, where men fish and women wash their clothes. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into “the battery of Southeast Asia” by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    L1080130cc_1.jpg
  • Afternoon at the Nam Ou riverside in the remote and roadless Laoseng minority village of Ban Phoumeuang, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river (a tributary of the Mekong) connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. It is a place where children play and families bathe, where men fish and women wash their clothes. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into “the battery of Southeast Asia” by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0024740cc_1.jpg
  • Local boatman/fisherman, Khamphao prepares fish for cooking over an open fire which he has just caught by dynamite fishing in the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. It is a place where children play and families bathe, where men fish and women wash their clothes. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into “the battery of Southeast Asia” by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0024735cc_1.jpg
  • Local boatman/fisherman, Khamphao prepares fish for cooking over an open fire which he has just caught by dynamite fishing in the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. It is a place where children play and families bathe, where men fish and women wash their clothes. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into “the battery of Southeast Asia” by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0024733cc_1.jpg
  • Two Laoseng ethnic minority boys, Sone (13) and Sengpheth (10) push a boat through a channel made by the local boatmen to assist navigation of the Nam Ou river during the dry season when the river level is low, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. It is a place where children play and families bathe, where men fish and women wash their clothes. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into “the battery of Southeast Asia” by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0024713cc_1.jpg
  • Two boys, Sone (13) and Sengpheth (10) push a boat to the edge of the Nam Ou river, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages, but this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into “the battery of Southeast Asia” by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0024711cc_1.jpg
  • A Laoseng ethnic minority woman returns to the old village to collect firewood after her village of Ban Watai has been temporarily relocated away from the Nam Ou river, during the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 6, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. It is a place where children play and families bathe, where men fish and women wash their clothes. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into “the battery of Southeast Asia” by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0024666cc_1.jpg
  • A Laoseng ethnic minority man carries a piece of metal roofing material through the old village to his village of Ban Watai has been temporarily relocated away from the Nam Ou river, during the construction of the Nam Ou Cascade Hydropower Project Dam 6, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. The Nam Ou river connects small riverside villages and provides the rural population with food for fishing. It is a place where children play and families bathe, where men fish and women wash their clothes. But this river and others like it, that are the lifeline of rural communities and local economies are being blocked, diverted and decimated by dams. The Lao government hopes to transform the country into “the battery of Southeast Asia” by exporting the power to Thailand and Vietnam.
    A0024588cc_1.jpg
  • Portrait of an elderly White Hmong woman wearing traditional clothing outside her home in Ban Phou Lang Chang village, Luang Prabang province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    40-09_1_1.jpg
  • A young Khmu mother washes her young baby in the traditional Khmu way by putting warm water in her mouth and 'spitting' it on the baby, Ban Chaleunsouk, Luang Namtha province, Lao PDR. The Khmu are the largest ethnic minority in Laos and belong to the Mon-Khmer sub-branch of the Austroasiatic ethnolinguistic family, who are considered the original inhabitants of Laos. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    38-06_1_1.jpg
  • A Lanten ethnic minority woman holds a reel of hand spun cotton, Ban Nam Lue, Luang Namtha province, Lao PDR. The Lanten or Yao Mun are a small but distinctive group of the Yao ethnic minority residing in northern Laos, Vietnam and China.  Maintaining a strong cultural identity, they are easily recognised by their hand woven, indigo dyed attire. Unlike many other ethnic groups who have relinquished their traditional dress, each Mun family still cultivates cotton and indigo for spinning, weaving, dyeing and sewing into clothing. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    22-05_1_1.jpg
  • An elderly Yao woman wearing her traditional clothing sew outside her home in Ban Nammy, Luang Namtha province, Lao PDR.  One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    19-10_1_1.jpg
  • An elderly Yao woman wearing her traditional clothing sews outside her home in Ban Nammy, Luang Namtha province, Lao PDR.  One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    18-05_1_1.jpg
  • A Tai Neua ethnic minority woman weaves colourful striped cotton fabric for make Sinhs (traditional Lao skirt) outside her home in Ban Si Li Houng, Luang Namtha province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    16-11_1_1.jpg
  • A Lanten woman wearing her traditional clothing makes prepares bamboo for making paper which is used during religious ceremonies. The Lanten or Yao Mun are a small but distinctive group of the Yao ethnic minority residing in northern Laos, Vietnam and China.  Maintaining a strong cultural identity, they are easily recognised by their hand woven, indigo dyed attire. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    06-04_1_1.jpg
  • A Lanten woman wearing her traditional clothing makes bamboo paper which is used during religious ceremonies. The Lanten or Yao Mun are a small but distinctive group of the Yao ethnic minority residing in northern Laos, Vietnam and China.  Maintaining a strong cultural identity, they are easily recognised by their hand woven, indigo dyed attire. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    05-09_1_1.jpg
  • A Lanten ethnic minority woman rolling cotton, Ban Nam Dee, Luang Namtha province, Lao PDR. The Lanten or Yao Mun are a small but distinctive group of the Yao ethnic minority residing in northern Laos, Vietnam and China.  Maintaining a strong cultural identity, they are easily recognised by their hand woven, indigo dyed attire. Unlike many other ethnic groups who have relinquished their traditional dress, each Mun family still cultivates cotton and indigo for spinning, weaving, dyeing and sewing into clothing. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals.
    04-10_1_1.jpg
  • A married Ko Pala ethnic minority woman wears her traditional costume at home, Ban Honglerk, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR. The brightly coloured, flamboyant costumes of the young Pala women are in contrast to the more conservative clothing of their elders. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0019965cc_1.jpg
  • Using a gourd scoop, an Akha Oma woman prepares an indigo dye bath for dyeing handwoven cotton for making into traditional clothing. The Oma are one of Laos’ smallest ethnic groups with only a few villages in Phongsaly Province. Cotton growers, indigo dyers and exquisite embroiderers result in traditional clothing being both colourful and unique. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0019289cc_1.jpg
  • Porpae, an unmarried Ko Pala ethnic minority girl sews her traditional costume at home, Ban Honglerk, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0019174cc_1.jpg
  • Portrait of Lo Mia, an young Akha Cherpia ethnic minority woman, Ban Nam Hin, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. She is wearing part of her tradition costume (headwear) and handwoven cotton indigo dyed mini-skirt along with a modern pink Mickey Mouse sweatshirt. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0019088cc_1.jpg
  • Porpae, an unmarried Ko Pala ethnic minority girl wears her traditional costume at home, Ban Honglerk, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR. The brightly coloured, flamboyant costumes of the young Pala women are in contrast to the more conservative clothing of their elders. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0019006cc_1.jpg
  • Portrait of Porpae, an unmarried Ko Pala ethnic minority girl wearing her traditional costume at home, Ban Honglerk, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR. The brightly coloured, flamboyant costumes of the young Pala women are in contrast to the more conservative clothing of their elders. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0019005cc_1.jpg
  • Portrait of Eupae, a married Ko Pala ethnic minority woman at home, Ban Honglerk, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR. The conservative clothing of the older Pala women is in contrast to the brightly coloured, flamboyant constumes of the young Pala women. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0018996cc_1.jpg
  • Wearing her traditional headdress and a modern t-shirt, a married Mouchi ethnic minority woman stands outside her wooden home in Ban Terka, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0018956cc_1.jpg
  • Wearing her traditional headscarf made from indigo dyed cotton, La, a Laopan ethnic minority woman stands outside her bamboo home in Ban Laopan, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0018936cc_1.jpg
  • A Mounteun ethnic minority woman sews her traditional clothing outside her home in Ban Mounteun, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0016739cc_1.jpg
  • A Phouxang ethnic minority woman sews her traditional clothing outside her home in Ban Phouxang, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0016601cc_1.jpg
  • A Ko Loma ethnic minority woman weaves ribbon on a loom outside her home which she will use to decorate her traditional clothing, Ban Lao Leo, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR.  In some areas, Loma women still grow, gin and spin cotton into thread and set up their looms outdoors for weaving cotton. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0015631cc_1.jpg
  • A Ko Loma ethnic minority woman sews traditional clothing in her home, Ban Lao Leo, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0015608cc_1.jpg
  • A Ko Loma ethnic minority woman weaves home grown, organic cotton fabric on a basic loom outside her home in Chalakao, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR.  In some areas, Loma women still grow, gin and spin cotton into thread and set up their looms outdoors for weaving cotton. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0015550cc_1.jpg
  • Portrait of a Ko Pala ethnic minority woman wearing a traditional headdress and Hello Kitty modern sweatshirt at Pak Nam Noi market, Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0015480cc_1.jpg
  • Portrait of an Akha Eupa ethnic minority woman breastfeeding her baby son in Ban Sa Nam Yang Pa village, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0014428rtcc_1.jpg
  • An Akha Cherpia ethnic minority woman prepares to begin weaving homegrown cotton on her loom outside her home in Ban Phi Mayai village, Phongsaly province, Lao PDR. One of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, Laos has 49 officially recognised ethnic groups although there are many more self-identified and sub groups. These groups are distinguished by their own customs, beliefs and rituals. Details down to the embroidery on a shirt, the colour of the trim and the type of skirt all help signify the wearer's ethnic and clan affiliations.
    A0014386cc_1.jpg
Next
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
x

In Pictures

  • About
  • Contact
  • Join In Pictures
  • Archive
    • All Galleries
    • Search
    • Cart
    • Lightbox
    • Client Area