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, an opening line that has become a classic.

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

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

If one’s heart is soft, and bought some, they will not give up; they will continue to try to sell more.

You say: “I’ve bought it.”

They will reply: “Buy another one then.”

And so on, until you give up.

The eggs are from their own hens, which run around the village and 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, 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 won’t turn you away.

It’s the best of both worlds!

Note: The little girl in the picture is only 5 years old. While some kids in the city were learning to tie shoe laces, the little girl already got a taste of how difficult it is to earn a living.