Vietnam Summer Photography Workshop

After settling into the hotel and attending a brief orientation about the exciting journey ahead, our photographic adventure kicks off with a vibrant visit to a picturesque incense village — a place deeply meaningful to me. One of my photographs from this village was showcased in the June 2017 issue of National Geographic, earning global acclaim for its stunning visual allure.

We kick off the day by photographing the bustling streets along Hanoi’s iconic ceramic road — a vast mosaic mural spanning kilometers, crafted to commemorate the city’s 1,000th anniversary. The vivid artwork and dynamic pulse of daily life create an electrifying setting for street photography, weaving together tradition and modern urban vibrancy.

We start our morning photographing the vibrant waterlilies in full bloom, their delicate petals set against the dramatic limestone karsts and serene waterways, bathed in the gentle glow of dawn. After a hearty breakfast, we journey to the historic Duong Lam ancient village, a living testament to traditional Vietnamese rural life, where we capture candid moments of locals engaged in their daily routines amidst ancient houses and winding alleys steeped in cultural heritage.

Departing Viet Tri early in the morning, we head to the scenic Long Coc tea hills, arriving in time to capture the stunning sunrise as golden light bathes the rolling green slopes, enveloping the misty landscape in a magical glow. After photographing this tranquil scene, we travel to the breathtaking Tu Le valley, famous for its sprawling rice terraces that cascade down the mountainsides like natural staircases, providing countless opportunities to capture the intricate patterns and vibrant colors of rural Vietnam.

The day starts at the stunning Mam Xoi viewpoint in Mu Cang Chai, where the sunrise casts a golden glow over the rolling landscapes. We spend the day exploring the breathtaking rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai, each scene showcasing vibrant green fields framed by majestic mountains.

As the day draws to a close, we bask in the warm hues of sunset illuminating the “Horse-shoe” rice terraces, capturing the final rays of light as they sweep across the graceful curves of this agricultural wonder. Each photograph crafts a visual masterpiece, intertwining the brilliance of sunrise, the rich heritage of H’Mong traditions, and the timeless allure of the rice terraces—creating a day filled with the vibrant spirit of nature and culture in this captivating corner of Vietnam.

As our time in Mu Cang Chai draws to a close, we rise early, excited to embark on the next leg of our adventure. Carrying treasured memories of the stunning rice terraces, the warm hospitality of the H’Mong community, and the breathtaking landscapes, we bid a heartfelt farewell to this tranquil valley.

Experience a vibrant day in Hue on our Vietnam summer photo tour, beginning with a breathtaking sunrise over the lagoon just outside the city. Then, explore the majestic Imperial City alongside Vietnamese models in traditional attire, adding authenticity and cultural richness to every shot.

We start the day early to photograph the first light over Hue’s tranquil lagoon, where fishermen drift across calm waters beneath gentle morning skies — a dreamy setting ideal for serene landscape compositions. After sunrise, we visit the Thanh Tien paper flower village, where artisans handcraft vibrant blossoms. The vivid colors and skilled craftsmanship offer excellent opportunities for detailed close-ups and environmental portraits. We also make a short stop at the abandoned water park on Hue’s outskirts, a haunting and surreal location providing a striking contrast to the traditional scenes from earlier.

Start your day with a captivating immersion, photographing the timeless skill of local fishermen as they masterfully cast their nets—a vivid scene rooted in Vietnam's rich cultural legacy. Engage with the cherished “Ro Cho” fishing tradition, passed down through generations, as we capture the expertise of fisherman, a veteran artisan with 46 years of experience.

Later, we enjoy a portrait session with madam Song, the woman renowned as the “most beautiful elderly lady of Vietnam”. We continue our day with a visit to a sewing net village, and a hidden spot where workers gather colorful sedges to craft sleeping mats.

On the final day of our summer adventure, our photography expedition continues to capture the red-shanked douc langur, often called the "Queen of Primates" for its vibrant, multicolored appearance, including red lower legs, white forearms, a silver crown, red cheek hair, and a white tail. This critically endangered species, native to Indochina (Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia), is known for its unique, costume-like fur..