I’ve finally picked up my camera and ventured into the city. There are amazing scenes around every corner here in Hanoi. Last weekend I met some other traveler photographers on a predawn tour with Vietnam in Focus, a photo tour organization based in Hanoi.

As one of the professional photographers on the tour said, taking pictures changes the way you see the world. I agree. I’m more aware of light, color and perspective than I ever have been. I also spend a lot of time observing other photographers since they seem to notice so much more than I do.

We spent most of our time near the train tracks that run right through Hanoi. We wandered through a market below the Long Biên Bridge that spans the Red River. Our guide, a professional photographer from Ireland, taught me new techniques and gave excellent tips for capturing street life in Hanoi. Here’s a glimpse into the kinds of things I see every time I leave my apartment.

Click on the images below to scroll through the gallery.
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September 6, 2016 @ 12:48
Again Tim unbelievable pictures! hope you’re settling in well.Here’s a few questions have you started teaching how is the language barrier coming along and also what is the age of students your teaching I have a ton more questions But I will just start with that.
September 7, 2016 @ 12:36
The language is tough . . . can’t wait to start a class. I just moved into my apartment and went to find a market since there wasn’t even any toilet paper in my new place. Realized I had no idea what the word for market was, much less toilet paper. There are dozens of stores crammed on every block, but not understanding any signs makes it hard. Still, every day I learn something new. (I did find what I was looking for and even chatted with the shopkeeper through sign language.) I’ll start teaching next week – looks like it will be some college students and some middle school kids. Lots of details still being worked out.
September 11, 2016 @ 09:29
Rons feeling a little guilty about taking that toilet paper on you
September 6, 2016 @ 13:55
HI Tim, I am amazed at the pictures of the people and country and in awe of you venturing into the traffic and streets. ALso as Anne says unbelievable. I’m glad you met a group of photographers- I looked at some of the other picture sites u mentioned. IT is such a contrast – cathedral to bridges to temples. HOpe you are learning some of the language. Hope things will get easier. I know u will be very busy and I too wonder at the age of students and how long the term is and whether you will become a student to learn after class. I like seeing the pictures. I will keep u in my prayers. Stephen and family sent lots of pictures of their trip here, so it is quite a comparison to where u are. Stay well. Love cousin Linda.
September 7, 2016 @ 12:43
The traffic is amazing. Today during rush hour the motorbikes filled up the sidewalk I was walking on. Pedestrians have no safe place! I do know that things will get easier. It can be very uncomfortable at first not knowing what to eat, where to go, how to speak. But I know from past experiences that those feelings pass and all of the discomfort is worth it in the end. This week, I’m in a workshop sponsored by the U.S. Embassy for the 8 Fulbright scholars and students in Vietnam now. We are being treated well and are being sent to the mountains tomorrow for some team building. I’ll start a regular schedule next week.
September 6, 2016 @ 16:58
AWESOME!!!!!!
September 7, 2016 @ 12:43
🙂
September 27, 2016 @ 12:33
Was the rooster picture for me?
October 6, 2016 @ 05:56
Your chickens should be glad they were born in America!