Vietnam Autumn Photo Tour & Workshop

After checking into the hotel and gathering for a brief orientation about the journey ahead, our photographic adventure begins with a captivating visit to the charming incense village — a location close to my heart. One of my photographs from this very village was featured in the June 2017 issue of National Geographic, bringing international recognition to its rich visual beauty.

We begin the day by capturing the busy streets along Hanoi’s iconic ceramic road — a massive mosaic mural that stretches for kilometers and was created to celebrate the 1,000th anniversary of this beautiful city. The vibrant artwork and constant movement of daily life provide an energetic setting for street photography, blending tradition with modern urban rhythm.

Throughout the day, our photography group transitions to the rich heritage of the soy sauce village, capturing the traditional craftsmanship and time-honored techniques that shape this culinary cornerstone. As we immerse ourselves in the village, the air becomes infused with the savory aroma of soy, enhancing the sensory experience and enriching our visual narrative.

Leaving the vibrant city of Hanoi behind, our photography group sets off on an immersive cultural and visual journey. Our first stop is the centuries-old village of Duong Lam, a well-preserved settlement that offers a glimpse into traditional northern Vietnamese architecture and way of life. The ancient houses, narrow alleyways, and local life here provide countless opportunities for capturing authentic moments and textures.

Early in the morning, our photography group rises to capture the serene beauty of Tam Coc valley, where limestone mountains cradle gentle waterways adorned with blooming waterlilies. The soft mist of dawn and reflections on the water create a magical atmosphere, perfect for evocative landscape shots. After breakfast, we begin our long but rewarding journey northwest toward Mu Cang Chai, one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations for landscape photography. Along the way, we witness the countryside shift from lowland paddies to dramatic mountain terrain, offering countless spontaneous photo opportunities.

The day begins at the breathtaking Mam Xoi viewpoint in Mu Cang Chai, where the sunrise bathes the rolling landscapes in a golden glow. We spend the day wandering through the stunning rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai, each vista revealing vibrant green fields framed by towering mountains. As afternoon unfolds, our journey leads us deeper into this scenic wonderland, with every step uncovering a new tapestry of natural splendor.

As our time in Mu Cang Chai nears its end, we rise early, eager to embrace the next chapter of our journey. Carrying cherished memories of the mesmerizing rice terraces, the warm hospitality of the H’Mong community, and the awe-inspiring landscapes, we say a heartfelt goodbye to this peaceful valley.

We begin the day early to capture the first light over the peaceful lagoon of Hue, where fishermen glide across still waters under soft morning skies — an ethereal setting perfect for serene landscape compositions. After sunrise, we visit the Thanh Tien paper flower village, where artisans craft vibrant blossoms by hand. The vivid colors and skilled hands at work provide a wonderful opportunity for both detail shots and environmental portraits. We also make a brief stop at the abandoned water park on the outskirts of Hue, an intriguing and surreal location offering striking contrast to the traditional scenes earlier in the day.

Our photographic adventure continues with lively glimpses of traditional grass mat-making, offering beautiful patterns and textures ideal for close-up shots. We then journey through the countryside for a scenic ride that leads us to the water’s edge, where iconic coracle boats float peacefully, ready to be framed against the warm tones of early morning light. Throughout the day, we also witness local fishermen sewing large fishing nets by hand—a unique cultural activity that makes for stunning environmental portraits and storytelling frames.

Begin your day with an unforgettable immersion, capturing the timeless artistry of local fishermen as they expertly cast their nets—a striking scene steeped in Vietnam’s cultural heritage. Engage with the treasured “Ro Cho” fishing tradition, handed down through generations, as we photograph the mastery of fisherman, a seasoned artisan with 46 years of experience.