Omani photographer’s shot of child with sandal paste draws acclaim

Muscat: Omani sandal paste has inspired one photographer to capture a mesmerising image.
Hamood Ahmed Al Naamani's photograph entitled:'Sandal' captures the beauty of a six-year-old Omani boy, with paste on his face.
"The sandal on his face and his childish features are what inspired me to take the photo," said the 23-year old Al Naamani.
Sandal or sandalwood, as it is also known, comes from the wood and roots of the sandalwood tree, which is one of the most valuable trees in the world. "I started taking photos professionally in 2013; I took this photo last year in Mahout in a place called Wadi Alsail," Al Naamani said.
"Firstly, I had to take permission from the child's parents, once they agreed, I went to their house.
It took about 30 minutes to get the perfect shot," he added.
Al Naamani's photo was displayed during the Al Mouj photography exhibit last week, which revealed the top 50 photos of its Al Mouj Muscat Photography Competition.
Al Mouj Muscat, in collaboration with the Oman Photography Society, had organised the first Al Mouj Muscat Photography Competition to mark Oman's 47th Renaissance Day celebrations.