Times change. People change. Only memories, happy or sad, will stay in our hearts and minds. So, people want to capture their intangible moments with photos

Nghe Lam Long Nhan (Longan Processing) Photo Le Hao

Duong Tang, a member of the Pho Hien Photo Club, remembered a time not long ago on Yen Lenh bridge when he came across an incredible image that he would never forget. To keep the scene forever in his mind, he took a photograph.

The sun was just about to set, many tiny streams of red sunlight fell down upon the surface of the Song Hong (Red River). He saw the sparkles dancing on the silty water, a fishing-net shining on a small wooden boat and a couple taking an open air shower.

“At that moment, I had an idea. I thought of giving them some money and asking them to stand in the light. Unfortunately, my pockets were empty and my camera only had 4 shots left. I shot the photo anyway and the photo Lap lanh phu sa (Sparkling Alluvial) was born. For me, it was the most interesting and unique moment in my photo-taking life,” Duong Tang said and pointed to his photo.

Photographs seem to be extremely common objects in everyday life. However, timing is everything. It is not really easy for photographers to catch moments that, when they happen, may only last for several seconds. When they do, their photos can make deep impressions on the mind’s of others.

Professional and amateur photographers have appeared on the scene like mushrooms, with huge numbers of photos taken and many clubs organised. Many were trained at academies, institutions or even by experienced photographers.

“We don’t all study photography formally but we still shoot in order for our hearts to be moved whenever we manage to catch a great moment,” Le Hao, director of the Pho Hien Photo Club in the northern province of Hung Yen, said.

Operated under the Hung Yen Department of Culture, Information and Tourism, and the provincial Association of Literature and Art, the club has gained recognition in Viet Nam’s photography culture after nine years.

“Taking photos is not merely a passion, it is also a lesson in the endeavour and enthusIasm of art’s labour. We regard photos as the most priceless things we have ever had,” Le Hao said.

Separate

Trai Lang Huong (Incense Village’s Man) Photo Duong Tang

“I’m one of the club’s original six members. We took photographs because we loved them. Then we realised it would be a waste if we only hung them on our own walls where no one else could see them or make comments. So, we decided to get together to show off our photos by establishing the Pho Hien Photo Club. We have grown to 24 enthusiastic members of various ages and we all participate in lively activities,” Duong Tang said.

Some members were soldiers who fought with the VIetnamese Army during the American war, including Le Hao, Duong Tang, Van Binh and Nguyen Tiep, the former director of the club.

“I used a Pentax camera when I was in the army. In addition to my position as general staff officer, I used to take photographs from a helicopter and then draw the maps,” Nguyen Tiep said.

“Now, as a member of Pho Hien Club, I’m happy with my life. Most of my photographs are of children and the elderly. I love taking photos of children because of the innocence and loveliness I can see in their eyes. Ideas are more important than equipment. Even with a small camera we can take nice photos,” Le Hao said.

Sometimes the club organises trips outside of Hung Yen Province, such as to Sa Pa, to get inspiration for shooting. They also invite other clubs to hold photo camps or small competitions to share photos and experiences.

“We are not rich and we do not take photos to sell, so spending money on this pleasure can be difficult for us. We have had to save money in secret in order to support our passion and maintain our club for so long,” Van Binh said.

Despite many problems, such as a lack of equipment, they still keep their club consistently active by following some rules. For example, come rain or shine the club meets on the 15th of every month to share their photos, talk and contribute ideas. This is the reason behind Pho Hien club’s long standing.

Happily, some photos originally taken only for personal pleasure have gained recognition in a few photo competitions. Club photos have brought in two gold medals, two silver medals and eight bronze medals. Others have been displayed in many exhibitions.

Pho Hien club also won first prize in the team competition at the Song Hong Delta Region’s Art Photo Festival three times. The photo Tren Canh Dong Day (on the Jute Farm) shot by Le Hao won the gold medal at the same competition.

“People are like musical strings: when the wind blows it vibrates and there is a sound. With a little indulgence, some talented photographers will be awakened by life’s moments, giving birth to special photos,” Nguyen Tiep said.

Excitement

Hanh Phuc Don So (Simple Happiness) Photo Duong Tang

“People often say ‘Nhat kinh ky, nhi Pho Hien” (‘The first is the capital, the second is Pho HIen’). So, along with our excitement about photography, we run this club to serve the regional political mission. We want to popularise our province inside and outside the country,” Le Hao said with pride.

“We don’t know whether the club can go far or not but we can affirm that we will nourish the Pho Hien Club till our last breath. Photos are life, and we love photos as much as our country,” Duong Tang said.

VietNamNet/VNS