Shooting in Vietnam is an absolute blessing for a photographer. Cities like Saigon are full of vibrant energy, and the people here are warm, kind, and always ready to share a smile. Every corner and street offers something unique for capturing beautiful moments.
I’m excited to share Karen’s Full Immersion Session, where we explored themes of identity and belonging in the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City.
Karen, an overseas Vietnamese with a deep connection to both her heritage and Saigon, wanted to explore the complexities of identity and belonging through her photoshoot.
From the moment we began working together, it was clear that this shoot would be a beautiful blend of personal story and the dynamic energy of Saigon.
Storytelling through photography is a passion of mine, and collaborating with the talented makeover team—makeup artist and fashion stylist—helps bring every vision to life in the most captivating way. For Karen's vision, the Full Immersion Session was the perfect approach. Together, we explored the themes of identity and belonging in the vibrant streets of Saigon.
Feeling Foreign in Saigon
In the first concept, we ventured into the heart of Saigon’s busy streets. Karen’s effortless style stood out against the backdrop of the market, emphasizing the tension of feeling foreign in her motherland while also experiencing a deep sense of connection. There was something incredibly powerful about capturing that duality in a single frame.
Red, White, and Saigon
For the second look, we moved to a bustling Tet market in Ho Chi Minh City. Dressed in a striking red jacket, crop top, and white skirt, Karen’s style contrasted beautifully with the colorful chaos of the market. Her expression, full of contemplation and strength, perfectly mirrored the essence of her cultural exploration.
There’s something magical about Ho Chi Ming City—the vibrant culture and kind-hearted people create the perfect atmosphere for capturing deeply personal stories. Shooting Karen’s Full Immersion Session in the heart of this city was a wonderful opportunity to explore themes of identity and connection, and I’m so grateful for being part of this experience with her.
