Photographer Thai Phien has been awarded the most prestigious prize from the Vietnam Artistic Photographers Association for his book Spring Time.

Were you surprised when your book Spring Time was awarded VAPA’s top prize?

It really surprised to me. The VAPA Cup is the highest prize to be awarded to the best photos and photography books of the year. All photographers have a dream to win this prize. Nude photos are not given much attention at all in national contests. It is difficult to have an exhibition of nude photos.

This prize encourages me and all photographers, who are into nude art. The prize puts nude photos in the same realm as other photos. Photographers like me feel released, after being discriminated against for our subject choice. I will be more confident and will continue on my path to reach the true, the good and the beautiful.

Why did you start taking nude photographs?

I used to be forestry engineer; I had a bachelor’s degree on business administration. I started taking photos to share beauty with my family and friends. At the beginning, in 1992, I recognised that the wonderful beauty of a woman is true, but it is too fragile. I want to keep the beauty and make it immortal.

I think that nude photography is the most difficult, because there are the most challenges from art, self, family and society. I like this challenge.

Did you face difficulties at the beginning, and if so, how did you solve them?

The woman, who is nude in photo is not accepted in Viet Nam. Influenced by Confucianism many people think that it is a taboo. This preconceived idea makes people see nude photography as purely a sex photo. Bad opinions of my family is the most difficult thing for me.

I have to accept and solve the difficulties by myself. Sometimes, I feel I was guilty of something terrible, when I would sneak around to take pictures of models. Both the models and me felt bad, while taking the photos. We feel that we betray our family, our society and ourselves.

Does your wife support you?

At the beginning, my wife doesn’t like it. But, I continued my work secretly. After a long time, when my photos won many prizes and proved my faithfulness, my wife accepted my art choices begrudgingly. I know that she understands my passion. I thank and respect her.

What do you think about nude photography in Viet Nam?

Nude photography is like a neglected child. It has grown up without attention. In the past, there were incorrect perceptions about nude photography. It is not supported and was also prohibited by the authorities. Nude photography is now accepted gradually. But, it is still not in its rightful position in artistic photography.

I think we are in a time of transition, though. Nude photography will develop and be regarded equally to other forms.

Could you tell one memorable story in your work?

My model and I travelled to the upper part of one river. The place is like a desert. After walking all around, we find a good spot for our photographic idea. When the model is nude, and the camera is ready in the tripod, rain starts to fall.

We quickly pack up everything and seek shelter. However, I’m afraid of wild reptiles in the small cave we find. So, we have to go back. The tool bag is so heavy, but I still smile to calm the model. I try to move fast and leave the model behind without explanation.

I have to do that, because my camera-stand is so expensive and is made from metal. I’m worried that it will be struck by lightning, and my model will be in danger, if she comes with me. The morning after, we go again to the place; one of the photos I take there becomes one of my favourites.

VietNamNet/VNS