The Vietnam Association of Photographic Artists recently held a workshop titled Vietnamese Photography: 50 Years of Development Alongside the Nation, in conjunction with its 2024 annual review and planning session for the 2020–2025 term.  

At the workshop, participants reviewed the accomplishments of Vietnamese photography and its contributions to cultural and historical documentation.

Ho Sy Minh, Deputy Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Photographic Artists and Editor-in-Chief of Photography and Life magazine, emphasized: “Photography has become an indispensable cultural activity in the spiritual and artistic lives of people.”  

Photographer Pham Tien Dung praised the medium's unique ability to capture life authentically, evoke emotions, and inspire positive societal change. However, he noted, these strengths are often overshadowed by an increasing focus on aesthetics over substance.  

Photographer Luu Quang Pho argued that competitions and exhibitions often favor staged and digitally altered works, resulting in a lack of originality. Photographers frequently travel to scenic regions like the northern highlands or the Mekong Delta to capture picturesque settings, often with hired models and scripted scenes.  

“These images no longer satisfy audiences, as they’ve become too familiar and lack authenticity,” he said.  

Pho highlighted that photography’s original value lies in its documentary nature - framing reality from the perspective of the artist. Yet, many so-called “realistic” works are actually staged, blurring the line between photography and theatrical production.  

More importantly, he stressed that Vietnamese photography has failed to address critical societal issues. In exhibitions, viewers rarely encounter depictions of poverty or injustices that would evoke empathy, outrage, or calls for action.  

Tran Thi Thu Dong, Deputy Chairwoman of the Vietnam Union of Literature and Arts Associations and Chairwoman of the Vietnam Association of Photographic Artists, celebrated the growing stature of Vietnamese photography over the past five decades. She noted its vital role in enriching the nation’s artistic endeavors and preserving its heroic history.  

“Photography holds immense power as a medium for authentic communication, building trust across generations,” Dong remarked.  

She expressed optimism that, with continued progress and innovation, Vietnamese photography will achieve greater breakthroughs, fulfilling its mission to contribute to a modern, prosperous nation.  

Tinh Le