The Joy of Vietnam: A Foreign Perspective

Many expatriates and travelers have shared their joyful experiences in Vietnam through a photo and video contest, presenting their unique and personal perspectives of what a 'happy Vietnam' means to them. The submissions capture a vibrant and diverse range of moments, offering a glimpse into the country's rich culture and the happiness it brings to those who visit and reside within it.

Administrator

15 December, 2024

At first glance, the submissions by foreign photographers to the Happy Vietnam photo and video contest may seem indistinguishable from those taken by Vietnamese locals. However, upon closer inspection, subtle yet significant differences emerge, as pointed out by Pham Anh Tuan, head of the Authority of Foreign Information Service under the Ministry of Information and Communications, in an interview with Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Thursday.

The ministry, along with the Vietnam Association of Photographic Artists, organized a meeting to unveil the schedule for the exhibition of selected submissions and the awarding ceremony for the Happy Vietnam 2024 contest. The event is slated to take place on December 11 at the iconic Hanoi Opera House.

Capturing the essence of family happiness in Vietnam. Photo: Courtesy of the organizer

According to Tuan, the concept of ‘happiness’ through the lens of foreign photographers differs from the local perception. Foreign entrants tend to gravitate towards capturing the raw, unfiltered beauty found in villages, rural areas, and emerging urban landscapes, as well as the timeless allure of ancient rural and urban settings.

Their submissions often center on portraying authentic stories and emotions that resonate with the lives of Vietnamese people, offering a unique perspective on the country’s cultural fabric.

Nearly 600 foreign photographers participated in the contest, and their artworks beautifully captured the simple, yet profound, moments of joy in the lives of Vietnamese people, along with the warm and welcoming smiles of the locals, as Tuan elaborated.

A foreign photographer captures the simple happiness of a Vietnamese girl. Photo: Courtesy of the organizer

The contest organizer emphasized that the event was designed to offer a platform for Vietnamese citizens, both within the country and abroad, as well as international friends, to express their love and appreciation for Vietnam through the powerful mediums of photography and videography.

Over a span of seven months, the contest received an overwhelming response, attracting 9,657 stunning photographs and 670 captivating videos from 8,863 participants.

The pure joy of Vietnamese children, captured by a foreign photographer. Photo: Courtesy of the organizer

The judging panel meticulously selected 60 exceptional videos and 150 photographs for the exhibition, with 34 entries receiving prestigious awards, including two submissions by foreign nationals. One of these award-winning foreigners is the Philippine ambassador to Vietnam, as revealed by Tuan.

The total prize pool for the winning photographs and videos amounted to nearly VND400 million (approximately US$15,787), with awards spanning two gold, four silver, six bronze, and 20 consolation prizes.

A foreign photographer captures the pride and spirit of Vietnam. Photo: Courtesy of the organizer

The chosen photographs and videos will be showcased in both domestic and international exhibitions throughout 2025, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Vietnam’s culture and the diverse interpretations of happiness within its borders.

According to the organizer, each visual narrative selected for the exhibition conveys a unique story, captures an extraordinary moment, or conveys a profound message about the love and pride that Vietnamese people hold for their country, along with their aspirations for a prosperous and joyful future.