The Little Merchant

The Hani people who sell eggs in Yuanyang were already out early in the morning. They bring their boiled eggs and their children to the shooting spot. As soon as they see people carrying tripods and cameras, they immediately jump on them and tell the children to sell eggs to the photographers or tourists.

"Uncle, buy an egg." In an almost pleading tone, this opening line has become a classic.

No matter how you answer, they always have a way of replying when they come your way.

If you perfunctorily say, "Later," they will remember. After a while, they will pester you again: "Uncle, you just said you would buy it later. Now it has been a while."

If your heart is soft and you buy some, they will not give up. They will continue trying to sell more.

You say, "I've bought it."

They will reply, "Buy another one then."

And so on, until you give up.

“Uncle, buy an egg.”

The eggs are from their own hens, which run around the village. They are very "organic" and taste good.

When they see you eating the eggs, they pounce on you again, saying the same thing: "Uncle, buy an egg."

These Hani children are so cute, and they make great photo subjects. The best solution is to buy eggs from them and then take the opportunity to photograph them. That way, they will not turn you away.

It is the best of both worlds.

Note: The little girl in the picture is only five years old. While some children in the city were learning to tie their shoelaces, this little girl had already tasted how difficult it is to earn a living.