Two Gazes, One Story

Kawaza Village Zambia – Two Gazes, One Story Kawaza Village Zambia gave me one of those quiet encounters that remain in my memory long after the journey ends. I photographed these two children in the Luangwa Valley, near South Luangwa National Park. They stood close together and looked directly into my lens, yet each of them responded to the camera in a completely different way. One gaze is calm, serious and observant. The other arrives with a spontaneous smile and open curiosity. Together, their contrasting expressions create a single portrait—one built from trust, closeness and a moment of genuine human connection. Kawaza is a rural community associated with the Kunda people and everyday life in Zambia’s Luangwa Valley. During my visit, I wanted to photograph more than the surroundings. I wanted to remember the people who gave this place its character and made me feel welcome. I did not ask the children to pose or change their expressions. I simply waited until their attention met my camera. That directness is what makes this photograph important to me. There is no distance in their eyes, only curiosity passing in both directions. Two different gazes, one shared moment and a story that did not need any words.