photo tours vietnam

Vietnam photo tours leading by An Bui

ORGANIZING AND LEADING PHOTO TOUR

Travel in right season for photography tour.

My name is An Bui, I have a strong passion of photography. With more than 20-year experience in tourism field, I lead myself every Vietnam Photo Tours which I organize. 

I think a successful Vietnam photo tours needs to go in the right season, right time, right place and off course with the support of weather. Find your free information with our photography blog .

SUPPORT OF PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS

Our Vietnam photo tours have a strong support of professional photographer to create art photography. Join with us to experience interesting photography tour in Vietnam . 

Travel in Vietnam in style of photographer

Photography tour vietnam.

Vietnam is an ideal country for photographer who love landscape, people culture and bird photography. The Vietnam Photo Tours are designed base for photographers with easy access and comfort travel.

Vietnam Photography Tour

Travel in vietnam in style of photographer.

• Vietnam Art Photo Tour
• Destination : Southern highland, southern coastal and central of Vietnam.
• Departures: 23 Feb - 6 Mar 2024
• Departures : 08 - 22 Feb 2025
• Private departures: Jan to Jul
• Fitness level : Moderate.
• Small group photo tour : maximum 6 Guests.
• Photography opportunity : Landscape with great light of the year, people culture photography along the beach from south to central Vietnam.
• Best Vietnam Photo Tour
• Destination : Mekong delta and northern hills of rice terrace Vietnam.
• Departures : 30 Aug - 13 Sep 2024
• Departures : 13 - 27 Aug 2025
• Private departures: Aug to Sep
• Photography opportunity : Landscape of yellow rice terrace hill once per year, minority, people culture photography in Mekong Delta and Northern Vietnam.

Vietnam Cultural Photo Tour

• Destination : Mekong delta, southern coastal and northern hills of Vietnam. 
• Departures : 11 - 25 Oct 2024
• Departures : 2 - 16 Dec 2024
• Departures : 6 - 20 Dec 2025
• Photography opportunity : Landscape of amazing northern hills, minority, people culture photography in Mekong Delta and Northern Vietnam.

Southern Coastal Photo Tour

• Destination : Southern coastal Vietnam.
• Private departures: Year round.
• Photography opportunity : Landscape, minority, people culture with the handicraft village.

Private Photography Tour

• Destination : Whole Vietnam. 
• Departures period: Year round.
• Photography opportunity : Landscape, minority, people culture with the handicraft village, portrait of models and bird photography.
• Vietnam Bird Photo Tour
• Destination : Mekong delta and central highland of Vietnam.
• Departures : 4-11 Jan 2025
• Private departures: Dec to Apr.
• Small group photo tour : maximum 4 Guests.
• Photography opportunity : Bird photography in the bird hide, from the boat or short hike to the national park.

Contact me for more information or request a private Vietnam Photo Tours.

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The only photographer you should compare yourself to is the photographer you used to be.

• Vietnam Photo Tours
• Cultural Photo Tour
• Private Photo Tour
• Hoi An Photo Tour
• Mekong Photo Tour
• Southern Coastal Tour
• Vietnam Landscape Tour
• Rice Terrace Photo Tour
• Craft Village Photo Tour
• Ao Dai Photography Tour
• Dong Nai Bird Photo Tour
• Mekong Bird Photo Tour
• Photo Collection
• Photography Blog
• About An Bui Photo Tour
• Tour Report
• Testimonials
• Terms and Conditions

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With these offer, we have build our reputation!

The Best Tours in Vietnam for Photographer

It's simple awesome and you won't believe it!

Welcome to Vietnam! Vietnam Photography Tours and Adventure will bring you to the best guideline photography sites throughout the country. Our photo tours will take you the opportunity to hunt the less-known regions in Vietnam which seeker wish to travel to. Also get the chance to share experience with local inhabitants, to touch mysteries covered by morning fog. Especially from vast the mountains over deep valleys to view the colorful terrace fields filled in hillsides as picturesque. Get closer for homeland of hill tribe people in remote regions where you can experience authentic encounters.

Please refer our best private Vietnam photo trip package that to choose the right trip for you. If you do not find any suitable trips, please contact us to customize a tour to meet your needs.

Tailored Made Vietnam Photography Tours

All of our Vietnam photo tours can be CUSTOMIZED to suit!

Photography Tour In Tra Que Village

Hoi An always on top Vietnam vacation spot. There are so many interesting place to take picture. But this tour we would introduce to photographer

Tam Giang Lagoon Tour

Tam Giang Lagoon tour with us. You’ll have opportunity to take fantastic pictures of the wonderful tranquil view during learning fishing of Tam Giang Lagoon,

The Untouched Gems Of Northwest Vietnam 7 Days

Mu Cang Chai and Sa Pa are very famous for its picturesque scenery with lush mountains, green valleys, traditional villages of ethnic minorities, bamboo forests

Mu Cang Chai Photography Tour

What are you expected for Mu Cang Chai photography trip? It is the truly photogenic destination where offers the stunning landscapes. You can touch and

North Vietnam Photography Trip

North Vietnam photography trip 12 days will lead you passing mountainous area in North Vietnam to discover its unique and different beauties in each sites.

Vietnam In Focus

Best Vietnam in focus Photography trip lengthen you from South to North Vietnam within 16 days. This is the opportunity to discover the colorful the

This hiking and sightseeing trip will offer you the peaceful and attractive spots in Northern mountainous Vietnam. Amazing Mu Cang Chai terrace fields on hillside

Hunting Terraced Rice Fields & Hill Tribes

Are you photographer hunter? So Mu Cang Chai and Ha Giang will give you the wonderful journey to romantic and amazing scenery to take the

Halong Bay Photography Tour

Halong Bay photography tour for 2 days is a great way to see the spectacular island in Halong Bay. It’s time for relaxing on a

Best Vietnam Photo Trip

Mu Cang Chai in North Vietnam is the spectacular site with amazing terrace fields. Mu Cang Chai and Bai Tu Long Bay will give you

North Of Vietnam Landscape Photography Tour

North of Vietnam Landscape Photography tour 14 days package where you will have chance to take most beautiful photos of terraced rice field in  Mu

Northeast Vietnam Beauty

Get ready for some more fun! This package is designed to discover the amazing highlights of northeast Vietnam. There is honestly no any better way

Trekking Vietnam Adventure

Do you love adventure? Well, it’s time to get a taste of adventure as you discover the diverse regions with amazing sights. You will just

Ban Gioc Waterfall Tour Package

Ban Gioc Waterfall Tour Package: Enjoy the stunning view of Northeast Vietnam This travel throughout the north east of Vietnam emphasizes the immense beauty of

Northwest Vietnam Tour Adventure

Want to live an adventurous life while enjoying the amazing beauty of Vietnam? Origin Vietnam offers the bets trip to adventure the northwest Vietnam where

Stunning View Of Sapa Plus Mu Cang Chai

Nestled at the foot of the beautiful and majestic Hoang Lien Son chain Mountain, Mu Cang Chai in Yen Bai province possesses the wild landscapes

Unforgettable Trekking Vietnam

Jam packed with one of a kind and super exciting places. This adventure tour takes highlights including a cruise and also spending a dreamy night

Ms. Angela & Ms. Lucy is our experts for this itinerary and as seasoned travellers she has the inside track on the most memorable adventures.

All are tailor-made tour from Origin Travel Team

This itinerary is to give you the flavor experience we can do in Vietnam!

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Welcome to Vietnam's most creative and bespoke photography experience！

Covering a range of photographic subjects, from spectacular terraced rice fields to colorful hill tribes portraits, to traditional lifestyles, or bustling cities, vietnam-photo tours offer fantastic opportunities to explore vietnam., vietnam-photo tours runs several group and private photography tours each year for photographers as well as several fixed departure photography tours that operate throughout the year. each photography tour is led by our professional photographer nguyen vu phuoc and accompanied by deeply knowledgeable local guides and fixers., join us for a wonderful photography journey in vietnam., viet nam photo tours and photography workshops, photo tour north – central – south vietnam, photo tour binh lieu – cat ba, photo tour hoi an – hue, unique photography tour “recreating the traditional wedding in the southern vietnamese villages”., photo tour – mekong 여정 (한국 사진작사를 위함), photo tour – the mekong delta, phan rang – nha trang – hon khoi, we have some more photo tours and workshops as well., photo tours completed, a series of aerial photographs showcasing the spiritual architecture of the “eternal homes” during the nguyen dynasty era in vietnam, photo day tours, saigon – aerial drone tour, hoi an  – ancient and peaceful, saigon – photography day tour, featured blog posts about viet nam, what’s so special about vietnam-photo tours with nguyen vu phuoc, 100-year-old christian vestige finds refuge in volcano’s shadow, tour of the month, phan rang – nha trang – hon khoi.

Characteristics of Cham culture are from words, scripts, from the art and techniques of shaping earthen towers, stone statues, to embroidered fabrics, knitting, brocade weaving, or pottery and utensils for daily life. Cham people are always proud of ancient Cham towers built with terracotta. The image of ancient Cham dancers was carved into the temples, in which the Tra Kieu women's sculpture was one of the masterpieces. As part of the national culture, Cham folk architecture also has a long history and tradition. The hands and the creative mind of the Cham people clarify the richness, diversity and help us see the cultural exchange, the process of development of the people. Brocade is a traditional Cham profession. When the girls are to the age of marrying, they all know how to weave. Scarves, robes are considered as a measure of the resourcefulness of the Cham girls.

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Vietnam Photo Tours & workshops

Bountiful photo opportunities, photo tours and workshops in the stunning beauty of vietnam.

Join me for an unforgettable Vietnam photography tour and workshop. I run various photo tours throughout the year in this stunning south-east Asian country which normally start in Hanoi.

Vietnam is a country full of culture, breathtaking landscapes as well as a captivating history. It’s no wonder it is fast become one of the most sought-after destinations for photographers around the world. 

Whether you’re looking to capture the bustling streets of Hanoi; the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay or stunning rice terraces, my Vietnam photo tours and workshops will help you get the best out of the country. So join me on an unforgettable journey through this stunning country as we explore its hidden gems and hone our travel photography skills along the way!

Tour details

Basic information.

Various from 13 to 15 days

5495€ to 6995€

Fitness Level

Low to Medium

4 star hotels and homestays

Golden terraced fields

During the early part of September, the photo opportunities in Vietnam are bountiful. The rice terraces turn a golden yellow and are transformed into a stunning backdrop to the hillsides and deep valleys. But it’s not just rice terraces that await us.

The bustling streets of Hanoi with its famous Train Street; Mu Cang Chai with its stunning rice terraces and also the bustling port town of Hoi An. The latter is a town I know exceptionally well having spent the best part of two months there in 2019.

Vibrant life

We will endeavour to make the very best of the morning and evening light during the photography tour. You will be taken to some of the very best photo locations and also lead you to explore lesser-known spots, so you can photograph a wide array of classic landscape imagery, from breathtaking landscapes and vineyards to lifestyle and close-up photography.

Accommodation

Our stays on these Vietnam photo tours are based in a mixture of hotels and homestays. Homestays are the Vietnamese equivalent of a bed and breakfast and these will be used in and around Mu Cang Chai. Double rooms are provided with breakfast and a 3-course dinner included where we can (drinks excluded).

Photography techniques covered during the workshop

• Out in the field
• Exposure and understanding of how to get the best out of the light
• Composition techniques to create balanced images
• Lens choice and focal length. Typically people head for the wide-angle in a landscape but up in the mountains telephoto lenses are also heavily used.
• Panoramic photography. How to best compose the beautiful panoramas that we’ll see during the photography tour
• Using Adobe Lightroom or Camera Raw to process our images
• Using luminosity masks in Adobe Photoshop
• Colour correction
• Stitching panoramic images

Upcoming Vietnam Photography Tours

Vietnam Photography Tour and Workshop | 15 June - 29 June 2024

Vietnam Photography Tour and Workshop | 31 August - 14 September 2024

Vietnam Photography Tour and Workshop | 9 February - 21 February 2025

Vietnam Photography Tour and Workshop | 14 June - 28 June 2025

Vietnam photography tour and workshop | 13 - 27 september 2025, vietnam photography tour and workshop | 8 february - 20 february 2026, get an insight into vietnam, signup to my newsletter.

• Fantastic photography day tours
• Featured Tours
• Cultural Adventures

Photography Day Tours in Vietnam

Discover real local life while improving your portfolio and skills on one of our acclaimed photography day tours. 

We made our name creating unique experiences for people who love photography and authentic adventure.  We were the first to bring people to Hanoi’s ‘train street’, on our Hanoi On the Tracks tour . We were also the first to even think of taking guests to Long Bien Market at four in the morning to experience the market in full swing. We pioneered photography at iconic Quang Phu Cau Incense Village – long before it hit Instagram. And we’ve continued the Vietnam in Focus way with photography experiences like Danang On the Waterfront , Hai Van Pass Horizons and Saigon’s Railway Village , all of them firsts in their respective areas.  On a photo tour with us, expect to get off the beaten track, mix it with the locals, learn new photography skills and come away with pictures to make you proud. 

Our professional photographer guides are experts in their local areas, meaning we can tailor the tour to your interests and conditions on the day. As well as enhancing your composition and use of various settings, you’ll become a better storyteller with your camera.

We are officially licensed to run photography tours and workshops, with accreditation from the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism. 

Please note which tours are private, and which are small group join-in tours.  All our photo tours can be combined and customized to suit your travel plans. Contact us directly for a tailormade itinerary.

Our Award-Winning Photo Tours are Available throughout Vietnam

Hanoi photography tours.

• Ninh Binh Explorer
• Private Experience

Discover soaring mountains, authentic craft villages, and timeless country life

• Hanoi by Night
• Group Experience

Explore the excitement of Hanoi in low-light

• Ultimate Hanoi

Capture the best of Hanoi in a single action-packed day

• Ultimate Quang Phu Cau Photography Experience

Document real life at Vietnam’s most colorful craft village

• Into the Thieves Market

Venture into Hanoi’s most photogenic street market

• Long Bien Sunrise

Capture the action at Hanoi's wildest market

• Hanoi Explorer

Encounter the authentic Old Quarter

• Craft Village Colors

Enjoy a fascinating encounter with the people and handiwork of Hanoi's outlying areas

• Tho Ha Traditions

Follow the rice paper trail on the banks of the Red River

• On the Tracks

Get off the beaten tracks on Hanoi's lesser-known train street

Ho Chi Minh City Photography Tours

• Sundown in the Colony – Saigon Photo Tour

Explore inner city living in an atmospheric area of Saigon

• Ultimate Saigon Photo Experience

Capture the best of Saigon in a single thrilling day

• Railway Village – Saigon Photo Tour

Capture the action beside Saigon's tracks as trains roll in from the north

• The River’s Edge – Saigon Photo Tour

Delve into real daily life along Saigon's canals

Danang & Hoi An Photography Tours

• Hoi An River Life Photo Tour

Escape the tourists into Hoi An’s Thu Bon river delta

• Hai Van Pass Horizons – Danang Photo Tour

Cross the coastal mountain pass, before exploring life at Lang Co Lagoon

• Danang on the Waterfront Photo Tour

Explore the city’s bustling waterfront as it wakes for the new day

• Danang Riverside by Night Photo Tour

Discover. Engage. Enjoy

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• Vietnam in Focus
• Days of the Dragon
• Gods of the Sea
• Ultimate Vietnam Photography Adventure
• Journey to the West
• Vietnam by Rail
• Golden Harvest
• Miracles of the Mekong
• On the Opium Trail
• Lychee Harvest Season
• Mang Thit and the Magic Mekong
• Coastal Traditions – Northern Vietnam
• Moc Chau Love Market Photo Tour
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• Photography tours & Workshops 2024

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Vietnam photo tour.

During the Vietnam photo tour , we will photograph the Golden Paddies  in northern Vietnam . But also we will photograph the ancient traditions in a large workshop around the full country exploring traditional cities & villages. During our travel, we will be able to capture amazing portraits of the fishermen, salt & rice fields workers, and water lily flower pickers… all prepared with local models to capture the best portraits.

To capture these portraits, we will be visiting the famous landscapes all around Vietnam. From South Vietnam with the beautiful Mekong Delta to the north rice fields . Visiting also the seascapes & waterfalls of central Vietnam will be some of our spots for landscape lovers. But also the rich architecture such as the ancient city Hoi An or Hanoi , and small villages to capture the Vietnamese people.

Details of the Vietnam Photo Tour

Definitely a complete tour around Vietnam , to enjoy the photography at one of the most impressive countries of Indochina. And that thanks to our local services we will be ready to capture the essence of the country in each of the locations we will be visiting. During this tour, we will enjoy the best season for rice fields and also comfortable weather.

A workshop designed for all levels of photographers , where you will be learning on the field during all days. We will have time between our road trips and flights (included in the price) to have some edition lessons at our comfortable hotels.

If you wish to visit other areas such as Halong Bay, Tam Cốc-Bích Động, Cu Chi tunnels from the Vietnam war  or spend more days in the north of Vietnam to visit more rice fields, please write us to prepare an extension of this trip.

Day 1 Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Our Vietnam Photo Tour will start at the Tan San Nhat Airport (SGN), in Ho Chi Mihn, also known as Saigon. There we will be waiting for you with our local guides. From here we will transfer to Long An in the Mekong delta. Once in Long An, we will have dinner together at a local restaurant and go to rest at our hotel.

Day 2 Long An - Phan Thiet

After breakfast, we will meet with our guides and models to photograph the beautiful water lily flowers at the Mekong river . We will spend here all morning capturing amazing photographs in this area before moving to Phan Thiet.

We will have a long drive today (6 hours), with a stop for sunset in the seascapes of Kê Gà. This night we will be sleeping at Phan Thiet, already on our way to Central Vietnam.

Day 3 Phan Thiet - Phan Rang

Today we will enjoy the sunrise in the fishing village of Phan Thiet. Once the sun gives us the best moment of light, we will continue our route from Central Vietnam to Phan Rang.

Already in the village, we will enjoy doing portrait photography of the elderly Cham people during the afternoon. For sunset, we will share time on the sheep farm with the local people, to photograph the last lights of the day in the landscapes of Phan Rang.

Day 4 Phan Rang - Doc Let

We will enjoy the sunrise in the sand dunes with the Cham people with our models. After that, we will move to a pottery village to continue our portrait photography of Cham people during his lifestyle.

After lunch and some rest, we will depart to Doc Let. In Doc Let, we will visit the fishing port where fishermen usually are mending the fishing nets. Our sunset session will be in another amazing location: The salt fields. There we will have again models to pose for us during the last lights of the day.

Day 5 Phan Rang - Phu Yen

Today we will enjoy the sunrise again in the sand dunes with the Cham people with different concepts as yesterday. After that, we will drive to Phu Yen stopping on the way at Dai Lanh Lighthouse and Nghinh Phong tower.

In the afternoon, we will visit a local handicraft village in Phu Yen where we will sleep this night.

Day 6 Phu Yen - Qui Nhon

Today we will have the possibility to enjoy the sunrise in the Ganh Da Dia reef at Phu Yen. The landscapes of Ganh Da Dia will surprise us with the rock dark lava columns of different shapes. This night we will sleep in the village of Qui Nhon.

After that, we will transfer to Qui Nhon. For sunset, we will move to the landscapes of Eo Gio.

Day 7 Qui Nhon - Hoi An

Today we will enjoy the sunrise at another iconic seascape as the Egg Rock in Qui Nhon. After that, we will move to our last destination in the north of central Vietnam: Hoi An. Once in this old village, we will enjoy walking and photographing the architecture of the village and nightlife.

Day 8 Hoi An

We will have the full day to explore and photograph the daily life in Hoi An ancient town. As most of the days before, we will be accompanied by models to take fabulous pictures in this village.

Day 9 Hoi An - Hue

Today we will share the sunrise with the fishermen in Hoi An river. After breakfast, we will transfer to Hue with a photo stop in Hai Van Pass.

In the afternoon we will arrive to Hue, where we will enjoy the sunset in Chuon Lagoon.

We will awake early for sunrise at Lap An lagoon. Today we will enjoy the company of models, that will pose for us in the different locations we will be visiting. This morning, we will be photographing the Citadel of Hue with a model. After that, in the afternoon, we will have the possibility to capture more amazing photographs at the river with models dressed with Ao Dai and a floating red lantern.

Day 11 Hue - Hanoi

Today we will take a flight to Hano to start our last stop of the tour. Once in Hanoi, we will transfer to the incense village to photograph the women working in the village. As soon as we finish, we will come back to Hanoi to visit according to the time the Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi old quarters before enjoying sunset photography at Tran Quoc pagoda.

Day 12 Hanoi - Mu Cang Chai

In the morning we will depart to Mu Cang Chai area, where we will find the best rice terrace fields in all Vietnam. Also, we will have time to photograph the lifestyle of the people and the small traditional villages of this part of Vietnam.

Our sunset session will be in the rice terraces of Tu Le, where we will capture one of the most iconic pictures of the trip.

Day 13 Mu Cang Chai

We will enjoy another amazing session for sunrise at Mu Cang Chai. Today, we also will have time to visit Hmong village during the day. Of course, for sunset, we will enjoy these amazing landscapes of rice terrace fields in the region.

Day 14 Hanoi

Our last day in the area will start with another nice view of the rice fields. After that, we will have breakfast at our hotel and come back to Hanoi. Once there, we will have free time before a farewell dinner.

Day 15 End of the trip

After breakfast, we will have some free time until transfer to the Hanoi airport, where we will finish our Vietnam Photo Tour.

If you wish to visit other areas as Halong Bay, Tam Cốc-Bích Động or spend more days in the north of Vietnam to visit more rice fields, please write us to prepare an extension of this trip.

• Photographer Guide(s)

Eduardo Fuster

Spanish photographer & teacher, diplomate in Art & specialized in Video & Photography. His photos were published in magazines such as National Geographic, Vogue, El Pais, Washington Post … Also worked in Real Estate photography for large luxury companies in the USA. He has also been working for the last 20 years in video design, collaborating on ads campaigns for Nike, Carrefour, Nivea, Hiberdrola, Tourism of Spain… His photographs were recognized in different international conquests. As an example the 1st place in Sunrises & Sunsets 35 awards 2019. Also get honorable mentions in the fine art photography awards 2018,2017,2016, Monochrome visions, 35 Awards 2018 & 2017 as an example. 

More info about this trip

Departure Location

Return Location

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Hanoi, Vietnam

Price Includes

• Accommodation in twin rooms in a hotel
• All transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle
• Domestic flights
• All meals during the tour since Dinner day 1 to breakfast day 15
• Admission fee to indicated sights
• Model & set fees
• Local guide(s)
• Basic travel insurance

Price Excludes

• Flights to & from Vietnam
• Any Private Expenses including meals not mentioned
• Anything not mention in "Price includes"

Complementaries

• DSLR or mirrorless camera, tripod and remote shutter
• Wide angle lens (14-24mm as example)
• Standard lens (24-70mm as example)
• Telephoto lens (70-200mm as example)

Photographic lessons

• Composition
• Digital Workflow
• Panoramic Photography
• Depth of Field calculation
• Focal Blending
• Blue Hour Photography
• Filters, Neutral Density and Neutral Density Grads
• Photoshop and Lightroom post-processing workflow
• Meals Breakfast, lunch & dinner included. You can buy some snacks or alcohol in your own.
• Flights Flights from New York costs less than 1000 USD
• Visa A regular visa for US Citizens costs 25 USD

Is safe for Tourists?

Yes, travel around the Republic of Vietnam is extremely safe almost everywhere. The police control very well the country and rarely appear in the news about robberies or muggins, especially tourists. You should be aware just of scams and hassles, particularly in the big cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Min, Nha Trang, or Hoi An.

What month should I go?

Talking about the weather, March is probably the best month to visit the country. For photographers that want to capture the rice fields during the golden season, it’s at the end of September . So our trip is planned to match perfectly with the best photography month. The weather at the end of Summer is around 24°C.

Is street food safe to eat?

You just need as cautious as you will be in your city. Normally the street food is good and fresh . Look for the most frequent stall, as it will be the freshest food. Our packages include all meals during the trip, so you not will need to worry about it, as we visit only good and recognized restaurants.

The price of this Vietnam Photo Tour is based on the participation of a minimum of 6 participants. In case there are not enough participants, the possibility of making the trip will be offered with an increase proportional to the price, or a 100% refund of the total paid.

The last time of exchange rate calculation was January 1st, 2021, the final price can be modified up to 30 days before the tour start.

Accommodation

The accommodations offered are shared double rooms at Hotels with private bathrooms.

You can book an individual room during the process of the book your place for the photo tour or writing us at [email protected]

This tour includes all meals from dinner Day 1 till breakfast Day 15. Extra snacks or alcohol are not included.

Our tours include basic insurance, we suggest contracting full cover insurance. Contact us to expand your insurance coverage.

Our tours include all internal transports (cars, vans, trains, or flights). We don’t include international flights, but we will guide you at the moment of your booking the best options to arrive to the destiny from your home.

The itinerary mentioned can be changed due to a force major reasons like weather conditions or accidents for example.

Payment & Refunds

To book your place you need to pay 25% of the total cost. The total payment must be made 45 days before the trip.

This tour is done by Photography Workshops PhotoWorldTours SLU, due to illness or other reasons the trip may be made by another guide.

Cancellations

If the client cancel the trip will lose the deposit paid (25%), but refund other payments due this cancellation policy:

– More than 45 days but less than 60 days to the start of the tour: 50% of the total cost of the trip will be refunded. – Less than 45 days before the trip start: There will be no refund.

Other considerations

Please, check the section “This tour include” and “This tour not include” to know more details about meals, guides or other services include.

Related Photography Workshops

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• Iconic beauty of Central Vietnam (Aug 13 – 17)
• Mu Cang Chai Golden rice terrace (Sep 28- Oct 04)
• Ha Giang Life on the final frontier (Dec 11-17)
• Hidden Paradise of Muong Hum & Y Ty (May 11 – 18)
• Mu Cang Chai Rice Growing Season (June 01 – 06)
• Hoang Su Phi photography in the water season (June 06-11)
• Curves of the terraces (Sep 20-23)
• From the mountain to the sea (Oct 20-25)
• Sapa Loop: Landscape & Minority Cultures
• Hanoi Vintage Neighborhood
• Street photography workshop with Fujifilm Global Ambassador
• Frames of Ha Noi
• Hanoi by dawn
• Hanoi countryside – Photography on the farmers’ field
• Colors of incense
• The Vanishing Craft of Making Fish Traps
• Tho Ha – The rice paper making village
• Soy sauce village of Ban Yen Nhan
• Cu Da – Candid life in the noodle making village
• The Lychee Season (only in June)
• The pottery village of Phu Lang
• Long Coc Tea Plantation
• Fishing villages of Nam Dinh
• Ninh Binh photography tour
• Thac Ba – Photography in tranquility
• Ban Gioc Waterfalls – Landscape & villages
• Pu Luong – Heaven of photography
• Mountain markets
• Nam Dinh fishing villages
• Ha Giang – Photography in the exotic land
• Hoang Su Phi photography travel
• Muong Hum – Y Ty
• Pu Luong – Immersed in nature photography
• Thanh Hoa – Capturing the authenticity
• Nha Trang Visual Journey
• Tea plantations photography

Daily Photo Tours

This page contains our daily photographic tours. This means these tours operate on daily basis. Have a look at our selections of photography tours in Hanoi, and also photography tours to the surroundings of Hanoi. We look forward to having you on one of our next photo journey.

Ban Gioc Waterfalls – Landscapes & villages

Cu Da – Candid life in the noodle making village

Hanoi countryside – Photography on the farmers’ field

Booking Form

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( +84) 90.11.66.884

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Luminous Vietnam: Photography Tour

Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is captured forever… It remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything.

Aaron Siskind

Why Luminous Vietnam ?

Local experts.

Hidden locations, best light condition, photogenic places & people... are keys of Luminous Vietnam Photo Tour

Inspire & Exchange

Experiencing the remote destinations; Knowledge & Local Culture Exchange...

Responsible Travel

Giving back principles...

Upcoming Photo Tours

Luminous vietnam photo tour spectacular - 15 days, vietnam northern ricescape photo adventure - 09 days.

  TOUR PRICE: $6,750 USD 

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: David Lazar 

DATES: June 18th – July 2nd, 2023

ROUTE: Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hue Imperial City – Hoi An – Nha Trang – Phan Rang – Hanoi - Long Coc - Mu Cang Chai – Sapa – Hanoi

The annual Luminous Journeys Vietnam Photo Tour Spectacular is led by National Geographic contributor and multi-major award winning photographer, David Lazar . He is joined by the fun loving Nguyen Vu Phuoc, who is perhaps Vietnam’s best all around lensmen. Teamed with our logistics master Diep Van, the team will always have you in the right location at the right time for a remarkable array of exceptional photo opportunities. 

TOUR PRICE: $1,590

DATES: September 11th – 19th, 2023

ROUTE:   Hanoi - Long Coc - Mu Cang Chai - Sapa - Bac Ha - Hoang Su Phi - Hanoi

When natural landscapes and hill tribe villages and cultures are to your taste, this 09-days of Northern Vietnam photography tour is for you! The North of Vietnam is beautiful all year round but yellow rice terrace fields are only at their fullest from August to the beginning of October when the harvest season comes. Let us take you on a hunt from the endless tea hills to the off-the-beaten paths filled with stunning scenery and authenticity

Vietnam Northern Landscape & Vanishing Tribes - 08 Days

TOUR PRICE: $1,690

DATES: September 19th – 26th, 2023

ROUTE:   Hanoi - Long Coc - Na Hang - Ha Giang - Dong Van - Meo Vac - Cao Bang - Hanoi

The name "Northern Landscape & vanishing tribes" photo tour have said it all about the primary activities of our journey. This photography tour concentrates on landscapes and we all know that Northern Vietnam is incredibly perfect for it. 

And, once you have picked the north of Vietnam, our leaders and local experts know where to take you to the most off beaten paths & authentic spots to experience and photograph the unique hill tribal cultures and lifestyles.

Northern Laos & Vietnam Photography Tour - 15 Days

TOUR PRICE: $3,268

DATES: October 21st – November 04th, 2023

ROUTE:  Luang Prabang - Nong Khiaw - Pak Ou - Kuang Si - Hanoi - Long Coc - Ha Giang - Dong Van - Meo Vac - Bao Lac - Hano

This 15 days of photography trip will give you the opportunity to photograph the city during the incredible “Festival of Light” or Lai Heua Fai and the amazing “Festival of the Fire Boat” or Boun Heua Fai , during which families and monks re-decorate the city, creating countless, breath-taking photographic opportunities at every turn. 

In addition to Luang Prabang, we also take an intimate look at the daily lives of the various ethnic groups dotted throughout Laos and Vietnam remote interior.

Photography Articles

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Welcome to the official website of Tran Tuan Viet — an award-winning Vietnamese photographer and internationally published visual-storyteller.

Tran Tuan Viet: Bringing Vietnam closer to the world

The profound simplicity of Vietnamese daily life can be witnessed through moments of innocence, intimacy and freshness that mark his photo stories of Vietnam. Today, his work featuring Vietnam’s people, landscape, and traditional culture, is commissioned by international clients, and has also been published widely by renowned worldwide media.

— Sharjah Government Media Bureau

Tran Tuan Viet on Media

Renowned outlets like National Geographic, Discovery, and CNN have published Viet’s photographs, which Apple and Samsung have also featured. Stories about Viet have also appeared in almost all Vietnamese newspapers and television channels.

Vietnam Photography Tours

Explore the enchanting beauty of Vietnam through the guide of Tran Tuan Viet. A photographic journey that unveils the Vietnam’s captivating beauty. Since 2018, Viet and his team have been orchestrating immersive photo tours, offering a unique blend of cultural richness and scenic marvels.

Join a community of passionate photographers on an expedition that goes beyond sightseeing, delving into the soul of Vietnam. From bustling markets to serene landscapes, each tour is a visual feast, capturing the essence of this vibrant nation. Let Viet’s expertise and vision transform your photography, creating lasting memories and stunning images.

Partners & Clients

Viet finds the creative prowess acknowledged through commissions from esteemed clients such as Google, Hyundai, Canon, Honda, Samsung, and other industry giants, showcasing the universal appeal and recognition of his artistry across diverse and influential platforms.

Vietnam Instagram account to follow

As you might expect from someone’s whose art has been praised by National Geographic, his Instagram feed is one jaw-dropping snap after another. Thankfully, his photos celebrate not only stunning landscapes, but also the pure beauty of everyday scenes in Vietnam.

— Vietnam National Administration of Tourism

Stay connected

Join our newsletter to receive news, updates on Vietnam photography tours, prints sales, and more.

Follow Tran Tuan Viet’s photographic journeys throughout Vietnam.

Vietnam Photo Tour & Workshop : The Land of Culture, Craft & Nature

A unique photo experience on craft & culture.

Vietnam is one of the most interesting places for travel photography in the world. It’s the most vibrant culture with 54 colorful ethnic groups, natural beauties, traditional crafts, and friendly people made it one of the great photo destinations in the world.

The Vietnam photo tours & workshop lead by Nguyen Vu Phuoc is the most famous Travel photographer in Vietnam, as well as is a documentary photographer and drone master.

In this trip, you will explore Vietnamese tradition, culture, people engaged with crafts, street, portrait nature & landscape. Besides we also arrange shoots in stunning settings with professional models and extempore local peoples to make your frames more interesting. It’s a great opportunity for you to photography in each place with unparalleled inside access and an extraordinary number of impact image-making opportunities.

Tour Highlights

Saigon street life photography

Phong Dien floating market

Women mending fishing nets

Bac Lieu traditional Town

Sunset at Champa village & people’s life

Women in traditional dress walking across sand dunes

Sunrise in Hon Khoi salt fields

Thu Bon river and fish market

Vietnamese craft making villages

Duong Lam ancient village

Date: 22-31 January 2023, 2024 & 2025 Duration: 10 Days 11 Nights Extension 2-5 days extension available

Small Group Maximum 8 Participants. + One Photographer Guide + One Tour Manager

Photo Skills: Beginner to Pro

Fitness: Easy to Moderate

USD 3500/ EURO 3500 Double Occupancy USD 4200/ EURO 4200 Single Occupancy

Vietnam Photo Tour & Workshop

Let’s discover the land of craft & culture, day 01: arrival saigon, vietnam.

The Photo Travel’s representative will greet you at the Saigon International airport then take you to the hotel for check-in. this afternoon Introduce with our Photo guide, Mr. Nguyen Vu Phuoc then followed by your first photo shoot street photography on Saigon street life & China Town. A special Welcome Dinner & Enjoy the slideshow presentation by Nguyen Vu Phuoc , interact with Phuoc you will get more information and idea which will be helpful for your journey.

Photoshoot: Saigon Street Life Photography

Meals included: Lunch & Dinner.

DAY 02: Floating Market and Fishing Nets Sewing

With camera in hand and good light, the photographer is faced with image opportunities that they are often moving and as challenging as they are numerous. Early morning we will drive to  Phong Dien floating market.  Phong Dien is most famous, smaller, more intimate and sees far fewer tourists. Hundreds of country boats gather here with fruits, vegetables and crops. You will see the boats transporting and selling everything from timbers to vegetables to breakfast noodles to poultry. Today second session transfer to the coast of Bac Lieu to photograph the daily work of fishermen,  the next shoot is one of our highlights, with permission from the owner, we’re free to photograph the Viet ladies in conical hats who are fixing & sewing the colorful fishing nets.

Photoshoot: Phong Dien floating market and Viet ladies are fixing & sewing the colorful fishing nets.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

DAY 03: C oastline of Bac Lieu & Traditional village life

Another interesting day in Bac lieu, early morning we will drive to the coastline of Bac Lieu to catch where local people catching mussels by little nets. In the second session, we will explore the Vietnamese most traditional things, village people, girls and women’s daily life.

Photoshoot: local people catching mussels by little nets & Traditional village life

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

DAY 04: Flight to Cam Ranh and Cham Tribes

At the morning we will take flight Tan Son Nhat Airport to Cam Ranh. The afternoon will you will explore at another great scene to the south, highlighted by green fishing net weaving in a nearby village and the vast sand dunes of the now vanishing Cham tribe, and a visit with a wonderful Cham family whose daughters have rare blue eyes and sunset at sand dunes tribes going back home.  Overnight at Phan Rang.

Photoshoot: Daily lives of Cham tribes. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

DAY 05:  Cham san dunes & Flight to Nha Trang

Morning session you will explore Sunrise at sand dune, environmental portraits of Cham tribe on sand dunes, Cham women with traditional dress walking across sand dunes to collect water. Return to the hotel for breakfast & leisure then packing for next drive to Doc let and overnight at Doc let.

Photoshoot: Cham women on san dunes. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

DAY 06: Khanh Hoa salt fields and Flight to Hoi An

Early morning, we will drive to Khanh Hoa salt fields to begin photo shoot with sunrise. The salt ponds of Khanh Hoa are perhaps the most photogenic anywhere on earth. The scene of workers, salt and reflective pools is like a tropical arctic, and at its best borders on the surreal. Return to the hotel for breakfast & leisure then packing for the next short flight from Cam Ranh airport to Da Nang airport. Upon arrival at Hoi An you will explore the colorful lanterns of Hoi An ancient town and overnight at Hoi An.

Photoshoot : Khanh Hoa salt fields and colorful lanterns of Hoi An ancient town. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

DAY 07:  Hoi An – Hue

Sunrise shoot at the lively market on beach where has layer of boat with local people do trading fishes. Second session you will explore Vietnamese women releasing floating lanterns. Overnight at Hue.

Photoshoot: Fishing Market at the beach and Vietnamese women releasing floating lanterns. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

DAY 08: Hue to Hanoi

Morning session you will explore Fishing net throwing on Huong river at dawn. Return to the hotel then packing for next short flight from Hue to Hanoi. Upon arrival Hanoi city you can do street photography at Hanoi city.

Photoshoot: Fishing net throwing on Huong river at dawn. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

DAY 09: Hung Yen traditional craft village

This day we will drive to Hung Yen traditional craft village where you have opportunities to photograph the locals drying the red incense sticks and Vietnamese craftsman making the traditional bamboo fish trap, and weave at the old traditional houses in Thu Sy trade village. Overnight at Hanoi.

Photoshoot: traditional bamboo fish trap and red incense sticks. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch (Packet) & Dinner.

DAY 10:  Duong Lam ancient village & Hanoi street

Morning session we will drive to Duong Lam ancient village where village people making Soy sauce. Afternoon we will back to Hanoi city to capture the street photo downtown. End of the day you have free time for shopping nearby hotel and you will enjoy the special dinner, review your images by Nguyen Vu Phuoc .

Photoshoot: Duong Lam ancient village and Hanoi city street photography. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

DAY 11: Departure to next Destination

After breakfast preparing to check out the hotel. According to your individual Flight departure time, we will drop you at the airport and bid a fond farewell. We hope your unforgettable memories call you again to this land and show up your Vietnam’s great images.

Meals included: Breakfast

Learn post-processing like a pro

We know what your images need, bring the touch of perfection to your digital images.

Our photography expeditions are not only a simple photo trip it’s a photography workshop. Whether you are a beginner, keen amateur or professional photographer we want you to get the best possible pictures on every our tour. Each of our participants will get the right infield guidance from understanding all camera settings, creating outstanding compositions, perfect exposer on the different light conditions, developing a personal style to finalizing ideas in image editing software.

We also put emphasis on I mage Post-Processing  which is extremely important nowadays. We will hold post-processing panels where we will teach you the workflows in  Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom  and some additional plug-ins we use to make your pictures stand well apart from the rest. We will try to allow enough time for you to post-process your pictures while on the tour, and hopefully you will go home with your prime shots ready for the showcase.

You will learn how to

• Organize your photos efficiently and speed up your workflow
• Develop RAW files with Lightroom and Photoshop and apply initial adjustments
• Use the selection, sharpening and retouching tools properly
• Blend multiple exposures in Lightroom and Photoshop using various techniques (HDR, luminosity masks)
• Stylize your images to give them your own artistic signature
• Apply various image effects… and much more

What is Included & Excluded in the Price

English Speaking Professional Photographer Guide.

Hotel Accomodations (3-star).

Local Transport by Car

• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
• Drinking-Water and soft drinks.

3 Local Flights Saigon – Phan Rang,  Doc Let-Cam Ranh,  Hue -Hanoi

• International Flight.
• Personal cost & laundry services.
• Gratuities for Photo Guides, and drivers.
• Travel insurance.
• Equipment and baggage insurance.

Nguyen Vu Phuoc ,   Tour Leader

Nguyen Vu Phuoc is the most famous Travel photographer in Vietnam, as well as he is a documentary photographer and drone master. He loves to help hands-on experience in a Creative learning environment while out in the field, and he absolutely loves leading photo tours!

Phouc has won more than 300 image awards from Vietnam and numerous countries around the world, He also achieved the EFIAP- excellence in the photographic arts from the prestigious Federation International de L’ Art Photographique (FIAP).

Phuoc graduated from the University of Fine Arts in Saigon in 1991, became a graphic artist, then went on to found Kien Vang Advertising in 1993. It was through shooting ad campaigns to save the expense of hiring a photographer that he first got into photography! He is married with three children, including a daughter who was one of the “models” photographed at birth and featured in the beautiful book, Labor of Love .

His Recent Solo Exhibitions ”Photography and Me ” December 2014 – Saigon ”Labor of Love – A Mother’s Journey ” May 2016 – Saigon “Bringing Viet Nam to You” – April 2017, Konya, Turkey

Gallery | Vietnam Photo Tour & Workshop

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DIGITAL PHOTO MENTOR

Photography tips, tutorials and guides for Beginner and Intermediate Photographers.

Vietnam Photo Tour

Next Photo Tour of Vietnam dates: April 26th – May 9th, 2020

Terraced rice paddies, colorful local markets, ancient ruins, magical pagodas, and vibrant city life. Yes, Vietnam has it all and we’ll see all that and more on this photography tour.

14-day Northern Vietnam Photo Tour

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• Where: Northern Vietnam
• When: April 26th – May 9th, 2020
• Who: You and 11 other photography enthusiasts.
• What: A 14-day photo tour of Vietnam, catering to photographing in the best light of the day, in the field practice in a fun small group setting, with a flexible schedule and customized photography tutoring to match the group members!
• Why: Total photography immersion, in a safe environment, with experienced professional photographers providing lots of hands-on help!

How much is this tour?

This tour is designed to offer you both adventure and comfort.

We stay in comfortable and clean rooms in properties with local character and style when possible. All your meals and in-country transport (bus, train) are included.

We also take care of little incidentals like water daily, tips, models, and snacks on the bus and train have all been taken care of for you for a smooth easy experience.

Maximum group size: 12

Remaining Spots: 0

Registration Closed

This tour is currently closed for registrations but you can join the wait list to be notified if a spot opens, or when the next tour is available for booking.

Members of the wait list will be notified first when registration becomes available.

This is less than many other Vietnam tours which include 15 – 20 people – please look at that when researching and comparing tours!

NOTE: We have set the maximum number of participants on this tour to 12. This allows for a small, intimate group in order to give you the best experience. This means you will have more time with the tour leader(s), and a really nice group size.

Single Supplement Price:

• Prices quoted are for double occupancy. NOTE: You will be paired with someone of the same gender if you do not have a travel partner and request a roommate – if one is not available you will be charged the single supplement.
• Price for a single room is an additional $895

Do you love to travel? If you are as obsessed with travel and photography as we are then you need to join us on this tour of Vietnam. Not only will you learn how to take better photographs, through the support of our expert photography leader, but you can rest assured you will travel to the best locations Vietnam has to offer.

NOTE: Our guide on this tour is also an award-winning Vietnamese photographer! So you get to learn from him and see a bit of his country through his eyes.

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The Best Light

This photography tour of Vietnam has been specially curated to make sure each day we are photographing in the best light possible.

Over the 14 days, you will learn the best time of day to photograph and how to overcome challenging lighting situations.

Expect fishermen at sunrise, rooftop sunsets, portraits of local people in traditional dress, and explorations into the magical blue hour.

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The Best Locations

Where others might go in, we go around. Don’t expect the typical tourist locations.

This is a custom-designed travel tour, by a photographer, for photography enthusiasts. What you can expect is to see the real authentic Vietnam including visits to local villages, exquisite architecture, experiences with tribal people and bustling markets.

We have taken the time to ensure our tour allows you to experience the real Vietnam, and not just the picture-postcard version.

Less Rushed

Nobody likes to be rushed. On our photography tours, we take our time.

By keeping the group size small we can be more responsive to your individual needs. We want to make sure you have time to get the best photographs possible.

That means if you feel like some downtime or skipping a location to explore on your own, that’s not a problem. We are here to support your photographic passion, and if that means taking a break that’s fine by us!

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Photographers love Vietnam

Do you want to perfect your landscape photography? How about Vietnam’s limestone islands, surrounded by crystal clear tropical waters as your backdrop.

This captivating Southeast Asian gem – incredibly diverse in the landscape – serves up the perfect spots to explore all the photo opportunities you’ve been craving.

Vietnam’s breathtaking countryside, lively cities, delicious street eats, fascinating history, and friendly locals make it one of the world’s most up-and-coming destinations, especially for photographers. [/column] [column width=”one-third”]

One-on-One Access to Your Tour Leader

Come along and join us on a journey through one of the safest and most awe-inspiring destinations in this part of the world.

Your tour leader is sure to work in some special surprises. Perhaps light painting or food photography are up your alley. We’ll add in some fun, offbeat photo outings to learn and practice specific skills and photo tricks.

We specially-design our tour as a small-group experience. You’ll have plenty of room to find just the right light and have easy one-on-one access to your experienced tour leader.

Improve Your Camera Skills

If you like photo vacations with an emphasis on improving your camera skills at the same time, a smaller group presents a greater chance you’ll learn what you came to – and then some!

Over the course of the tour, you will get help in areas you may be struggling with, in a small group setting.

This will help maximize your learning opportunities and give you time to get individual help in the field, ask questions, get your images reviewed and allow us to customize the tour dynamically based on guest needs and skill level. [/column] [/columns]

Move Vietnam to the top of your photography list

Vietnam is bursting with astonishing natural beauty.

With dramatic countryside, vibrant cities, 3000 km of tropical coastline, fresh and delicious street food and fascinating culture. Vietnam is the unsung hero of Southeast Asia and one of the world’s most up-and-coming destinations. Vietnam is developing at a staggering rate, so now really is the time to go.

Over the centuries the different civilizations that have called Vietnam home have shaped the architecture, culture and, cuisine. Its rich and complex history is waiting for you to explore. From the French Quarter in Hanoi to the Imperial City every place tells a story.

Come along on this exciting, one-of-a-kind photo tour of Vietnam, designed by photographers for photographers of all levels. Vietnam provides the backdrop, all you have to do is take the photos. Will you join us?

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This is a tentative schedule, may not be exactly as shown here:

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Your Photo Tour Leader:

Your photo leader for this Vietnam photography tour is Darlene. She is the creator of Digital Photo Mentor, a photography teacher, tour leader, traveler, and cat owner.

She has over 30 years of experience as a professional photographer, has been teaching photography since 2011 and has led over a dozen tours and 20+ workshops.

Darlene is a Fuji shooter but she speaks almost all other photography languages. Whatever your skill level and experience, she can help you unlock the next level and help you learn to take better photos.

Cost of Photo Tour of Vietnam

[columns] [column width=”two-thirds”]We have set the maximum number of participants on this tour to 12. This is less than many other Vietnam tours which include 15 – 20 people – please look at that when researching and comparing tours. Keeping the group sizes small allows for a smaller, more intimate group in order to give you the best experience.

This means you will have more time with the tour leader, and a really nice group size.

The minimum number of people required to run the tour is seven.

Join the waiting list above to get notified early and grab a spot.

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[columns] [column width=”one-half”] The price of the tour includes:

• Airport pickup and return (airport transfers) on the start and end dates as indicated. If you arrive early or stay later you will be responsible for your own airport transportation. (We can arrange it for you if you wish at an extra cost.)
• 13 nights of hotel accommodations.
• 1-night train accommodations.
• Meals – 13 breakfasts, 13 lunches, and 13 dinners (includes non-alcoholic beverages and tips).
• Air-conditioned transportation – included driver, fuel, and insurance.
• Professional English speaking guide, licensed for tourism.
• Excursions (boat rides, train).
• Entrance fees to historical sites.
• Organized photo shoots as listed.
• Photography tutoring and help as needed, you just have to ask.
• Portage tips for bags.

[/column] [column width=”one-half”] The price DOES NOT include:

• Your flight or other travel to Vietnam
• Tips for your guide, driver, and tour leader
• Lunches on your free days or if meals if you arrive early
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal spending
• Optional activities like spa treatments, etc.

Flights to Vietnam: We travel to Vietnam through Noi Bai International Airport , located 45 kilometers outside Hanoi city center. We have arranged transportation to our lodging in Hanoi for you if you arrive on the tour start date of April 26, 2020. We just need your flight arrival information to get you picked up at the airport.

Flights home from Vietnam: The tour ends and we depart from Hanoi so make your travel arrangements accordingly. Airport transfer is included if you fly out on the last day of the tour, May 9.

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[accordion] [accordion_item title=”What is the physical fitness level needed for this tour?”] There are many stairs and hills and some of our accommodations do not have elevators. We also do a bit of walking/hiking in the Sapa area and there are some hilly areas (could be 3-5km, 1-2 hours) If you are in good health and fitness level you will be fine. But this tour is NOT recommended for people with mobility issues. [/accordion_item] [accordion_item title=”What if I don’t have a roommate but don’t want to pay the extra for a single?”] If you request to share a room and we cannot match you with a roommate you will be required to pay the single supplement fee. We do our best to pair everyone up but due to gender mismatches, we may not always have equal numbers of males or females. You can certainly also bring a friend along to share (the same rate applies for them). [/accordion_item] [accordion_item title=”What photography skill level do I need to participate?”] We encourage all skill levels to join us on this tour. It is not about what you know it’s about doing photography together, enjoying the adventure, and learning a few things along the way. Whatever your level you can get some tips from the tour leader. You don’t even have to be a photographer, but can come along and appreciate the relaxed pace of this tour. [/accordion_item] [/accordion]

Explore the country on this photo tour of Vietnam. Meet fellow photographers from around the world and make new friends.

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More Tour Guest Testimonials From All Our Tours

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Our Photo Tours & Workshops

Click here for our complete list of photo tours of Africa, Asia, and South America, and if you’d like more hands-on, photography education, you’ll love one of our workshops , held in Western Canada and Scotland (new locations coming soon, possibly Tuscany).

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Enroll in our free photography basics for beginners course, or 12-part portrait photography course , also free.

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NORTHERN VIETNAM

Hanoi, Tu Le, Mu Cang Chai, Mam Xoi, Tan Uyen, Sa Pa

CENTRAL VIETNAM

Rice Terraces, Mountain Villages, Tea Fields, Hill Tribes and Stunning Landscapes in Vietnam.

Join us in Vietnam for an unforgettable 7-day Vietnam photo tour in Northern Vietnam, where we will discover the color and diverse beauty of this vibrant country. Our Northern Vietnam photo tour focuses on mountain villages, stunning rice terraces, tea fields, landscapes, and the hill tribes of Sa Pa.

For those looking for more, we offer a 9-day Hanoi & Central Vietnam add-on for a total of 17 days of Vietnamese culture and stunning photography. Our Central Vietnam photo tour focuses on the coastal cities of Hue and Hoi An and the mountains and Red River delta of Ninh Binh.

This Vietnam photography and cultural journey begins in the vibrant capital city of Hanoi, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. We quickly head north to Tu Le, where we’ll focus on terraced rice fields.

Continuing our adventure in Mu Cang Chai, which m is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and is considered a photographer’s paradise. The rice terraces, rolling hills, verdant landscapes, and traditional villages create a visually stunning destination.

Next is Tan Uyen, home to expansive tea plantations, offering unique photo opportunities, especially with locals wearing the iconic conical Vietnamese hats.

In Sa Pa (Sapa), a town in the Hoàng Liên Son mountains northwest of Hanoi, we’ll be treated to breathtaking natural landscapes, rice terraces, lush valleys, and diverse cultural experiences. Sa Pa is home to many ethnic minority groups, each with its unique traditions, languages, and crafts.

Vietnam promises to enrich your photographic journey with new perspectives and captivating scenery. Let your photos tell the unique story of our travels, capturing the essence of Vietnam beyond its tourist attractions.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light but also to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. We aim to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but also use your newfound skills to improve and expand your photographic technique. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your creativity.

In addition, you will learn how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region, and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas, and great fun. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity than in Vibrant Vietnam.

Experience | Difficulty

• Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
• All cameras and camera phones are welcome
• Busy schedule
• Travel by walking, car or minibus
• Moderate elevation changes and lots of walking
• (non-photographers also welcome)

Weather | Sun

August – Temps 89/77F 32/25 C Sunrise 5:30 | Sunset 6:20 (18:20)

• 7 days or 17 days
• Travel, people, street, documentary, and landscape photography
• Professional photographer | guide
• Local guide
• Photo walks & discussions
• Small group size (4-6 guests)
• 4 or 5-star hotels
• 3 Lunches and 2 Dinners
• Local transportation

Travel Information

Arrival and departure airport: Hanoi, Vietnam – Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Transfer to hotel: 45 min Our adventure begins at 8 AM on the first day and ends at noon on the last day. Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. We suggest you use iVisa https://www.ivisa.com . They are excellent at providing quick service for obtaining travel visas.

Accommodations

Hanoi – Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Hotel de L’Opera, and similar Tu Le- Le Champ Mountain Resort Mu Cang Chai – Mu Cang Chai Ecolodge Sa Pa – Silk Path Grand Resort and Spa

Helpful Links

Northern vietnam prices & dates, central & northern vietnam prices & dates.

Photographer Leader

Lopamudra talukdar.

Central Vietnam & Northern Vietnam August 20-28 / August 30 – September 5, 2025

Michael Chinnici

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

Northern vietnam   7 days, day 1 | hanoi - tu le, day 2 | tu le - mu cang chai.

We begin our day with a photo shoot of the stunning valleys and rice terraces around Tu Le.

Afterward, proceed to Mu Cang Chai, known for its captivating scenery. We will explore the town and get to know the culture and life here. You can also ride local motorbikes to visit the iconic Horse Shoe, a symbolic spot in Mu Cang Chai. (B, L, D)

Day 3 | Mu Cang Chai - Mam Xoi

Day 4 | mu cang chai - tan uyen - sa pa, day 5 | sa pa - h'mong village.

Today is going to be another adventurous day with a cable car trip to Fansipan, the Roof of Indochina, offering panoramic views for photography. We will spend our afternoon at Ta Phin: Venture to Ta Phin, a H’mong community, to document and immerse in their traditional lifestyle, capturing daily life and cultural elements through photography. (B)

Day 6 | Explore Dzao Village - Hanoi

Day 7 | departure from hanoi.

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

May all who come as guests... leave as friends ®

OPTIONS AND BENEFITS

All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.

Private Guided Adventures

We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.

Travel Insurance

We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized  Travelex  Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet , one of the best in the industry.

The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here  to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.

Rewards Program

Start earning points today and SAVE $200 - $900 off future trips! Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!

How The Program Works For every adventure reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.

ORANGE REWARDS All guests begin with our  Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.

GOLD REWARDS With our  Gold Rewards Program  (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.

Additional Gold Benefits:

• Earn up to double points during promotional events
• Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers

VIP REWARDS With our  VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).

Additional VIP Benefits:

• Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
• Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*

Redeeming Your Points Redeeming your points couldn’t be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.

THINK ORANGE Magazine

Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine  and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!

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Vietnam Photo Tour Workshop

My Luminous Vietnam Journey was far and away the best photo tour I have ever been on. It was more than a photo tour; it was an investment in myself as a keen photographer, and gave me the opportunity to engage with ordinary Vietnamese people and some extraordinary professional photographers... — Lindsay Earle, Zimbabwe

Welcome to our Vietnam photo tour spectacular! Vietnam is definitely on the ‘can’t miss’ list for anyone with a camera interested in the many splendors of travel photography. One of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant cultures offers spectacular scenery, stunning historical sites w/ marvelously rich interiors, 54 colorful ethnic groups, and a friendly populace that rank it among the great photographic destinations of the world.

The Luminous Vietnam photo tour workshop is led by National Geographic contributor and multi-major award winning photographer David Lazar. Teamed with our brilliant logistics master Diep Van, they are constantly working to have you in the right location with the best light for any particular photo shoot.

“I was overwhelmed with the beauty and uniqueness of the locations chosen and delighted with the images I was fortunate enough to capture. None of this would have been possible without Luminous Journeys and the entire team that made Vietnam a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience. You really are “World Class” when it comes to photo tour adventures." - Frank Romano, Australia

There’s always a mix of free & street shooting, portraits & people, landscapes & landmarks, and providential surprises! There are also a number of arranged shoots in stunning settings, both with professional and impromptu local models. You’ll get the chance to photograph in places both on & off the beaten path, with unparalleled inside access and an extraordinary number of impact image making opportunities.

The itinerary for this Vietnam photo tour workshop has been carefully selected and purposely scheduled to run in mid to late June. This offers the best photographic conditions in northern and central Vietnam within any two week period. The country has many micro-climates, and there is no “perfect” time. June is hot and there might be occasional and welcome tropical showers. They are usually brief and often provide dramatic light and color to the skies. Moreover, June provides the best visibility of the year for Ha Long Bay. Just as importantly, it's also rice planting season. By the time we arrive many mountain rice terraces will be lightly carpeted in ethereal green, while others will have farmers and their buffalo working them. (Please don’t go on an April or May Vietnam photo tour in the northern mountains, because the rice terraces will not be planted yet, nor be photogenic).

The atmosphere of the tour reflects the nature of David Lazar – fun and relaxed, yet keenly aware and focused when it counts most. For those new to the photo tour workshop concept, it should be noted that instruction is informal, voluntary, and takes place largely in the field. Luminous Vietnam has been designed with every skill level in mind, novice to advanced. Novices will never feel left behind, and advanced shooters will never be held back. For those interested, Photoshop and Lightroom tips and tricks, as well as image review, normally take place at the hotel as time allows.

We would be remiss not to point out that David is more than just an outstanding photographer. He is also an outstanding gentleman & teacher who cares that you become a better photographer during your time with him. Rest assured that he honors our Prime Directive, always putting you and your photography first and foremost. There is no “leader hogging” here, which is an all too common complaint we hear about other photo tours.

The combination of David’s good natured leadership, Diep's remarkably seamless logistics, & the playful locals you will meet along the way, makes for a very special Vietnam photo tour workshop indeed.

Pricing and Details

Dates – June 16 - 30, 2025 (Space available) Lead Photographer – David Lazar, w/ Photo Guidemaster Diep Van Tour Price – $6995 USD (only $466 per day) Single Supplement – $985 USD Minimum Deposit – $750 USD                                                            Extension: Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise – Price TBA

Locations Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, Khanh Hoa, Phan Rang, Saigon, Mekong Delta, Long Coc, Mu Cang Chai Rice Terraces, Sapa, Ha Long Bay (Extension)

Hotels – 4 star, 5-star, with one charming Homestay in a remote tea plantation location

Tour Type – Small group Vietnam photo tour workshop, 5 person minimum, 10 person maximum.* See T&C

Physical Difficulty – Light to Moderate. There are no long treks, and we provide unlimited bottled water

Transportation – 3 internal flights, air conditioned vans and mini-buses w/ plenty of space, 4-star luxury cruise boat

What’s Included?

Photo tour leader.

• Name * Your Name
• Please select one or more photo tour adventures you are interested in: * Japan Vietnam Bali Southeast Asia India Cambodia Ladakh - India Bhutan Day of the Dead - Mexico Mexico Myanmar

Highlights - Luminous Vietnam Photo Tour 

Itinerary brief .

Day 15 – But I Don’t Want to Go Yet! – Hanoi – Parts Unknown We understand completely, we really do. Just a few more days? Yes, you feel great, warm and aglow. But underneath that glow is a tired puppy. Home is calling, and hopefully, some well-deserved rest. There’s a brand new portfolio of great images just waiting to make their world debut! No hurries no worries. We’ll pick you up at the appointed hour, bring you to the airport and bid you a fond farewell. With time to spare.

*NOTE: The above itinerary is a close sample only, subject to changes in flight and shooting schedules. A 30+ page detailed itinerary and information kit concerning traveling for photography in Vietnam will be sent to all participants approximately 100 days prior to tour start date. Image review, Photoshop and/or Lightroom tutorials are available on an ongoing basis by request, although we do have one formal image review and photo editing class scheduled on Day 13. Free time is essentially anytime you choose, as long as you don’t miss any travel day transport!

**Day 2 image by Frank Romano. All photographs by Luminous Journeys photographers or participants.

What’s Included in the Price of Your Vietnam Photo Tour?

  Photographer fees and top English speaking guide

  All accommodation

  In-country flights, airport & ground transport

  All meals from Day 1 dinner though Day 15                              breakfast. Lunches & Dinners include water, tea, or              soft drink

  Plenty of bottled water & refresh towels throughout

  All entrance, zone and camera fees

  Local model & village donations

  International airfare

  Extra dinks or alcohol @ lunches & dinners 

  Personal purchases

  Trip cancellation or medical insurance

  Medical expenses

  Gratuities for hotel porters, drivers or local guide

  Vietnam visa fee

  End of trip gratuities for photographer tour leaders

Getting Cultural

More knowledge – better pictures, dressed for elegance.

The always lovely and elegant áo dài (long garment) is quintessentially Vietnamese, and came to prominence beginning in 1744 as the regal dress of choice styled by Nguyen Lords of Hue.

Basically the áo dài is a silk tunic worn over silk pants. It can be seen in many colors, but white is the original classic and symbol of purity. White is worn by high school girls as a school uniform, most commonly in the south and the central coast region around Hue and Da Nang. The conical hats shown in the photograph on the left at Emperor’s Lake in Hue, are called non la .

The modern, sexier version of the áo dài was redesigned in Saigon in the 1950’s to emphasize the female form, and considered somewhat provocative. “The áo dài covers everything but hides nothing,” said a designer of the time. The garment was very popular and commonly seen on Saigon streets in the 1960’s and 1970’s, but virtually disappeared after the northern communists took power upon the defeat of the Americans. Publicly the new government disapproved over reasons of indecency, but it was really more about the áo dài being such a popular symbol of the South.

The Lost Dynasty of Cham

Although unknown to most westerners, the once mighty Champa Kingdom was a dynasty that lasted more than 1500 years, longer than the Roman Empire! The Cham were a largely Hindu culture that controlled most of central Vietnam and parts of present day Cambodia. They even went as far as sacking Angkor in 1177, and killing the king. From their capitol port city of what is now the World Heritage site of Hoi An, they dominated the South China Sea trade for more than a millennia. In addition to the sea trade, the Cham maintained a highly sophisticated culture with exceptional artistic expression, particularly in the realms of architecture, pottery, bronze, silver and gold. Cham gold works are considered among the most unique and superbly crafted anywhere on earth.

The reasons for the Champa Dynasty being “lost” to history are largely due to the plights and deeds of Vietnam itself. First by numerous wars over centuries that ended with Emperor Minh Mang’s annexation of the last remaining Cham territory in 1832. Suppression and persecution followed, and then colonization and wars by western powers.

Today in Vietnam most Cham are Muslim, and are not averse to letting loose on a hot day, as David Lazar captured on the right.

Maha Kumbh Mela! - India (11 Days)

Bhutan w/ david lazar (14 days), vietnam photo spectacular (15 days), luminous bali + mt. bromo (12 days), mexico – oaxaca, last mayans (15 days), southeast asia unleashed (15 days), japan in spectacular winter (14 days), luminous ladakh (13 days).

Iconic Myanmar Returns!

Day of the dead - mexico (11 days), legendary cambodia (13 days), private photo tours – multi-day.

On the Street – How to Capture Authentic Travel Portraits

Gordon Parks: A Luminous Journey

Funny Photography Quotes – Part 2

Funny Photography Quotes

How To Prevent Image Data Loss When Traveling

Mastering Natural Light Travel Photography 4

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Client Reviews

"I've been on quite a number of photo tours all over the world, and Luminous Journeys has been the best -BY FAR. Kyaw Kyaw Winn and the people of Myanmar will always be in my heart." - Benny Hanigal, Israel ​

"David Lazar and his team at Luminous Journeys know what it takes to put together the perfect photo tour!" - Susan Flickinger, USA ​

"I have been on multiple photo tours with multiple companies over the years, and Luminous Journeys is easily the best. And they did not pay me to say this!" - Antony Chodas, Canada ​

"I can guarantee you that there is not another tour in Mexico that goes where we went and does what we did. Sina Falker worked tirelessly... She is a gem. I would travel with her again in a minute." - Vera Hershenberg, USA ​

"My Luminous Vietnam Journey was far and away the best photo tour I have been on. It was more than a photo tour, it was an investment in myself as a keen photographer..." - Lindsay Earle, Zimbabwe

"I have to commend Luminous Journeys and David Lazar for putting together what I consider to have been the best photo tour we've been on…and we've been on quite a few around the world. ..." - Lee Ann Birkenstock, USA

"I had a fabulous time in India! It blew my mind, no place like it in the world! It was an absolute blast. Thank you so much and I'll see on my next Luminous Journey!!!!" - Shelly Lailberte, USA ​

SELECT COVER SHOTS - LUMINOUS JOURNEYS PHOTOGRAPHERS

Looking for Light in all the Wrong Places?

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Find a Tour By Date 2024 2025 2026 Other Tour Offerings By Region Africa Asia Central America Cuba Europe India Mexico Middle East South America

Vietnam Explorer with Patrick Firouzian – Tentatively April 2026

Vietnam, Southeast Asia’s “skinniest country”, stretches roughly 1,000 miles from top to bottom but is only about 25 miles wide at its narrowest point near the center. Although officially reunited, north to south, Vietnam feels more like two separate countries. While Hanoi and the northernmost cities and villages cling to more traditional, communist ways, Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City as it is now called) in the south, bristles with the energy and entrepreneurial fervor of any major U.S. city. With its amazing diversity and rich cultural history, Vietnam offers the adventurous traveler a unique opportunity to experience and photograph an exciting mix of landscapes, people, places, philosophies, cuisines, crafts, and religions.

New Itinerary in the works for 2026

Day 1: Arrive Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), where you will be picked up at the airport and taken to the hotel. This evening we will have an orientation meeting followed by dinner at a nearby restaurant. Overnight in Saigon.

Day 2: Today, cameras in hand, we set out for a Saigon City tour. We’ll make images of many of Saigon’s icons including the fantastically ornate Hotel de Ville which serves as Saigon’s city hall, the turn of the century Opera House, the Dong Khoi Street shopping area of the French colonial period, the Notre Dame Cathedral (1880) and the spectacular turn-of-the-century Colonial French Post Office. We will view Reunification Palace from the outside, then photograph the activities at Binh Tay Market. In the afternoon we will visit several religious sites including the Thien Hau Pagoda (Cantonese pagoda) in Cho Lon and the Sri Mariamman (Hindu) Temple and the Saigon Central Mosque. After our first full day photographing we’ll return to our hotel for dinner. Overnight in Saigon.

Day 3: About 8:00 a.m. this morning, we will transfer to boat dock for our fast (3 hour) ride down the Mekong to Can Tho. Upon arrival in Can Tho we transfer to the hotel and check in. For the rest of the day we tour Can Tho, visiting and photographing the lively waterfront area where the local inhabitants go about their normal activities. Then we set off for an amazing photo shoot of the Ninh Kieu Wharf area, the busiest commercial wharf in the Mekong Delta. Overnight in Can Tho.

Day 4: This morning we are up early for our 5:30 a.m. departure to the Fong Dien Floating Market, a chaotic, picturesque marketplace with hundreds vendors in boats buying and selling everything from bananas and coconuts to freshly slaughtered pork and sugar cane. We will have the opportunity to photograph the market from the shoreline and from water level in our private boat. Later, we return to Can Tho, to visit Can Tho Market, the Cantonese Congregation Pagoda and the Munirangsyaram Khmer Pagoda. Overnight in Can Tho.

Day 5: After breakfast we return to Saigon via private bus and proceed to the airport for our short flight to Danang. After being picked up at the airport in Danang we will be transported by private coach to Hoi An. We’ll make a quick stop to photograph beautiful, historic China Beach, with its vast expanse of pristine water and clean unspoiled beach. We’ll continue onward to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An. Overnight in Hoi An .

Day 6: Today we explore amazing, photogenic Hoi An on foot and while riding in Vietnam’s famous cyclos. We will photograph the Riverside Market area, the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Quan Cong Temple complex. Hoi An is a photographers paradise, with friendly inhabitants, charming architecture, and narrow streets awaiting our exploration. Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 7: Today you are free day to explore the ancient city of Hoi An on your own or spend the day relaxing, shopping or perhaps swimming at any of the nearby white-sand beaches. Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 8: After checking out of our hotel, we transfer to the Airport in Da Nang for our flight to Hanoi. Upon arriving in Hanoi we meet our guide and driver and embark on a city tour of Hanoi which will include stops at beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake, the Ngoc Son Temple and St. Joseph’s Cathedral. In the evening we will witness and photograph a traditional water puppet show, followed by a delicious dinner. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 9: This morning we are up early to witness synchronized t’ai chi at dawn on the shores of Hoan Kiem Lake. After breakfast we’re off to photograph in the old quarter, a fascinating and photogenic area full of shops, vendors and frenetic activity. After exploring the old quarter we visit Ba Dinh Square and the One-Pillar Pagoda, the Ho Chi Minh House on Stilts, the Presidential Palace, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 10: Today we are transported to Ha Long City, gateway to Ha Long Bay. Stopping along the way to photograph rice fields and local, roadside villages. That morning, we board our traditional Chinese junk for a tour of Halong Bay, where we will see caves, limestone monoliths and even take a swim in the gulf of Tonkin. We have dinner on the boat before disembarking at Cat Ba Island where we’ll spend the night. Overnight on Cat Ba.

Day 11: This morning we will explore and photograph local fisherman working at Cat Ba, before boarding our boat back across the gulf of Tonkin to Halong where we will be transported by private bus directly to Lao Cai. Arrive Lao Cai at around midnight, check in Thien Hai Hotel and overnight there.

Day 12: Early morning visit to to Can Cau Market 20-kilometers north of Bac Ha. We tour and photograph the Can Cau market, then return to Bac Ha by mid-afternoon and check-into our hotel, giving us the balance of the day to discover the quaint town of Bac Ha and spend overnight there.

Day 13: We’ll rise early to photograph the action at the Bac Ha Sunday Market. We’ll have the chance to photograph local hill tribe groups bargaining for water buffalo, pigs, horses, bottles of local firewater. In the afternoon, we’ll have a delicious lunch and tour the villages and hamlets nestled among picturesque rice paddies and hills surrounding Bac Ha. Later, we’ll board our private bus for the trip back to Hanoi. On arrival, we’ll check into our hotel. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 14: Today will be a free day to explore Hanoi. You may want to relax at Hoan Kiem Lake, shop in the old quarter or photograph more of Hanoi’s hustle and bustle. In the evening, we have our farewell dinner. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 15: Today, depending on your departure time, you are transported to Hanoi airport for your flight home.

CHOLON BACKSTREETS

• Price: US$99 / person
• Departure: Monday to Sunday – 6:00am
• Duration: 4 Hours
• Group Size: 3 persons max.
• Level: Beginners to Advanced
• Pickup & dropoff: centrally located hotels in District 1

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Private Workshop

• Price: US$169 / 1 pax
• Price: US$30 per additional participant
• Group Size: 4 persons max.

While Saigon has evolved tremendously through the last fifteen years, Cholon neighborhood was able to preserve its traditions and its unique blend of Chinese and French influenced architecture.  Its colorful back alleys, with its worn out yellow and green walls, offer an inspirational background to its dynamic street scene.

You will be introduced to different techniques relative to street photography, and put them into practice by capturing street vendors and passersby going about their daily activities. You will learn to “see” the street from a different angle, looking for the right light and anticipating your shots by working on your camera settings and composition in advance.

We will then walk through a local market with an incredible atmosphere, and find it to be a great opportunity to meet with the local crowd, share some friendly moments and shoot some great authentic portraits.

Finally, we’ll go visit a beautiful temple, where we will help you perfect your exposure technique in dealing with various light ambiances.

Tour Includes : Arnaud’s photographic guidance, pick up & drop off in centrally located hotels in District 1, bottled water, coffee break, entrance fees (if applicable) Tour Excludes : Insurance

Join-in Tour

• Pickup & drop off: centrally located hotels in District 1

Private Tour

• Cholon Backstreets
• Saigon Urban Exploration
• Saigon Scoot ‘n’ Shoot
• One-on-One Workshops
• Saigon Landmarks Photowalk
• 2 Days in the Mekong Delta
• Mekong Delta Hidden Gems
• Ha Giang, the roof of Vietnam
• North Vietnam Ethnic Trails
• The Rice Terrace Harvest Trails
• The Vietnam Adventurer
• Terms & Conditions
• Arnaud’s Flickr