Photo of the Day

monks lighting floating lanterns in Thailand
February 21, 2013

Monks, Thailand

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"All things must pass away. Strive for your own salvation with diligence," said the Buddha, his last words. Here, 1,127 monks are lighting floating lanterns at the temple of Song Pee Nong (literally means two brothers) as part of their pilgrimage. Suphan Buri Province, Thailand.

(This photo and caption were submitted to My Shot.)

What Makes This a Photo of the Day? It’s no surprise that a scene as photogenic as this one is a favorite of photographers—the dark sky contrasted with the orange robes of the monks and the glowing lanterns is warm and pleasing. What makes this frame special for me is that it is shot from below, which emphasizes the outstretched arms of the monks releasing the lanterns into the sky. I also like the small detail of the exploding fireworks in the background, echoing the shape of the lanterns. —Alexa Keefe, Photo of the Day editor


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Photograph by Paramit Supadulchai, My Shot

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