A stunning photograph of children at play, captured on a OnePlus 13, has secured a prestigious win at the 2025 Turkey Mobile Photo Awards. The image, titled 'Childhood, 2025', was shot by Moe Wai, a tuk-tuk driver and mobile photographer from Myin Ka Par village in Myanmar.
From Tuk-Tuk Driver to Award-Winning Photographer
Moe Wai credits his profession for sharpening the observational and interpersonal skills crucial to his photography. Living and working in his village, he developed a passion for mobile photography several years ago. For this winning shot, he turned his lens on a group of local children as they made their way home from school, transforming a simple beach scene into a vibrant tableau.
Creating a Scene of Colourful Play
Wai did not simply document a moment; he helped create it. Noticing the children playing with their own plastic bottles on a sandbank, he introduced props he had prepared: bottles and hoops painted in a variety of bright colours, including a striking neon pink. "The children were happy to let me replace theirs with my own colourful ones for the purpose of this photo," Wai recalled. After taking the shot, he applied minor edits using the Lightroom app to perfect the image.
Evoking Universal Childhood Memories
The photographer described his village as a close-knit, relatively safe community where outdoor play is a daily ritual. While he didn't play on that specific beach, the scene stirred memories of his own youth. "We used whatever materials were at hand to invent new ways to play," he said, noting the image captures the carefree imagination shared by children everywhere.
The reaction from his eight young subjects—three girls and five boys—was the most rewarding part. "They were delighted, laughing, pointing, and excited to recognise themselves in such bright colours," Wai said, highlighting the powerful connection forged through the image. This award-winning photograph stands as a testament to how accessible mobile technology can be used to create profound and joyful art.
