Photo tours
Catching light in the land of dragons
What it is and why
Photography in Vietnam is a hunt for golden hour, when morning fog lies in valleys of the North or evening sun paints fishing boats in the bay. Each region offers its unique visual code: northern mountains are ideal for landscapes and ethno-portraits, central coast — for architectural shooting, and Mekong — for atmospheric street photography.
We help plan routes so that to be in the right place at the right time. Vietnamese culture is very open to shooting, if you are polite, however it is important to know local features of lighting and timings of market work to get frames without crowds of tourists.
Where to do it in Vietnam
Points on the map are real places where this activity can be done. Numbers in the list match the markers.
- Mu Cang Chai (rice terraces)Yen Bai
Peak of photogenicity in early October, when rice turns yellow.
- Ancient town of Hoi AnQuang Nam
Lanterns, yellow walls and ancient architecture. Better to shoot early morning.
- Tam Coc / Trang AnNinh Binh
Karst hills among water. Ideal for shooting from boat.
- Red and white dunesBinh Thuan
Minimalism, sand and contrasting light at dawn.
Tips
- Use a polarizing filter — it is indispensable when shooting azure water and wet greenery of jungles.
- Golden hour in Vietnam is short: sun sets quickly, plan location 40 minutes before sunset.
- For street photography in markets ask permission with gesture, smile and a couple of bought fruits open any doors.
- Always have a waterproof case for equipment with you — humidity of tropics and sudden rains can be dangerous for lenses.
Caution
- Be careful when shooting military objects and port zones, this can cause questions from police.
- Do not enter private rice fields without permission, if farmers work on them — better to ask, smile and show respect.