Vietnam is a dream destination for photographers, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From century-old bridges to vibrant craft villages and breathtaking landscapes, the country presents countless opportunities to capture striking images. If you’re planning a photography trip, here are 4 iconic spots in Vietnam you shouldn’t miss.
1. Long Bien bridge – Hanoi’s timeless landmark
Built during the French colonial era, Long Bien bridge is more than just a crossing over the Red River—it’s a living witness to Vietnam’s turbulent history. The bridge, once bombed during wartime, still stands strong today, connecting the past and present of Hanoi.
For photographers, Long Bien is a paradise of contrasts: rusted steel frames against the glow of sunrise, trains slowly passing by, and motorbikes weaving through narrow lanes. At dawn or dusk, the bridge offers atmospheric shots filled with light, shadow, and movement.
Photography tips:
- Visit early morning for soft light and fewer crowds.
- Capture long exposures of trains and traffic for dynamic compositions.
- Explore nearby viewpoints for wide shots of the bridge stretching across the river.
2. Quang Phu Cau Incense stick village – a burst of color
About 35 km from Hanoi, Quang Phu Cau Village is where thousands of incense sticks are crafted and dried every day. As villagers spread the red-tipped sticks in circular patterns under the sun, the courtyards turn into mesmerizing carpets of crimson.
This traditional craft village has become one of the most photogenic spots in northern Vietnam, attracting photographers from around the world. The geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and hardworking artisans create a perfect combination of documentary and fine-art photography.
Photography tips:
- Visit on sunny days when incense sticks are displayed outdoors.
- Shoot from above for striking symmetrical compositions.
- Interact respectfully with artisans before photographing their work.
3. Rice Terraces – Vietnam’s Living Landscapes
Few scenes are as iconic as Vietnam’s rice terraces. Found in northern provinces like Mu Cang Chai, Sa Pa, Ha Giang these hand-carved mountainsides change colors with the seasons: lush green in summer, golden yellow at harvest, and mirror-like during planting.
The rice terraces not only represent agricultural ingenuity but also the harmony between people and nature. Wide-angle shots capture sweeping views, while close-ups reveal farmers at work, water reflections, or layers of terraces unfolding like waves.
Photography tips:
- Best seasons: May–June (watering season) and September–October (harvest).
- Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic light and shadows.
- Use a drone for breathtaking aerial perspectives.
4. Fishing net – coastal Vietnam’s daily rhythm
Along the central and southern coast, fishing communities create stunning photographic moments with their giant fishing nets. From above, the emerald seas transform into abstract paintings, with nets spread out in geometric or flower-like shapes.
In Central coastline provinces, fishermen cast and pull these nets at dawn, creating both cultural and visual drama. The vibrant colors of boats, the synchronized teamwork, and the reflective sea make fishing nets an unmissable photography subject.
Photography tips:
- A drone is ideal for capturing net patterns from above.
- Early morning is best to catch the fishing activity.
- Focus on both the abstract beauty of the nets and the human stories behind them.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of Long Bien bridge, the color explosion of incense villages, the majestic rice terraces, or the abstract beauty of fishing nets, Vietnam offers endless inspiration for photographers. Each of these spots tells a story—of resilience, tradition, and the intimate bond between people and their landscapes.
So, grab your camera, set your lens, and explore Vietnam through its most iconic photography locations.
XUAN PHUONG 