A few observations:
- The mesh-work of shadows breaking up the light creates the illusion of movement where there is stillness.
- There are elements of a formal portrait here but this is clearly a candid moment.
- I love capturing moments like this.
—Peter.
Prosophos 
Such a wonderful photograph for all the reasons you describe.
-bijan
>
NAILED IT! ….congratulations, very nice indeed.
Thank you Bijan and thank you Jason.