Da Lat – A muse for photographers
Da Lat has long been known not only as a place of poetry, music, and art but also as an enduring source of inspiration for photographers. In early April 2026, a photography camp was held, bringing together photography enthusiasts from across the country to capture the beauty of the highland city.
A place where photographers come together
For Vu Xuan Ngan Khanh (born 1991, Lam Vien - Da Lat Ward), three days at the photography camp provided valuable knowledge and boosted her confidence behind the camera.
Like many locals who enjoy admiring landscape photography of their hometown, Khanh said she had loved photography since childhood but lacked the opportunity to pursue it. Only after graduating and starting work in Da Lat did she begin investing in a camera to capture what she loves, from landscapes and wildlife to small details such as mushrooms, leaves and flowers.
“There were so many interesting things I learned at the camp. Before, I mostly learned on my own or from friends, so my approach was still quite intuitive. After hearing about the camp, I signed up for the camp, and the lessons and discussions helped me become more confident. For example, I used to take individual photos, but now I’ve learned how to build a photo series. Each series is like telling a story through images in a vivid and emotional way,” Khanh shared.
Meanwhile, Nguyen Thanh Dung (born 1995, from Ho Chi Minh City) also saw many benefits from attending the camp. Having started photography at the age of 15 or 16, he regularly joins training courses and workshops to improve his skills. Although he had visited Da Lat many times before, this was the first time he had seen such a large-scale photography camp, so he arranged his schedule to participate.
“The class was very useful. Not only beginners but also experienced photographers can learn something new. It’s also a great opportunity for photography lovers to connect, exchange ideas and build relationships,” Dung said.
Da Lat's charm
Under the theme “Behind the Morning Mist,” the photography camp aimed to explore the beauty of Da Lat through an artistic lens. According to Pham Tuan Ngoc, Director of Noirfoto Gallery in Ho Chi Minh City and the programme coordinator, Da Lat proved to be a highly attractive destination, with nearly 100 participants registering, including both locals and photographers from across the country.
Da Lat was the first, and perhaps the only place we thought of when planning this photography camp. This programme had been in the works for a long time, and this is its first time in Vietnam
Mr. Pham Tuan Ngoc, Director of Noirfoto Gallery
The camp was designed as an open space for the photography and art community, combining creative work and photo competitions over three days, with direct guidance from well-known Vietnamese photographers.
Da Lat has long held a special appeal for photographers. Beyond its poetic landscapes that change throughout the day and across seasons, this place offers a rich source of everyday life for artistic inspiration.
From the friendly and hospitable Kinh community, colourful flower gardens, to ethnic minority groups with distinctive costumes, festivals and lifestyles—everything contributes to a vibrant creative environment. As a result, Da Lat remains a favourite destination for both domestic and international photographers.
Thanks to effective collaboration with Pho Ben Doi Art Creative Centre in Da Lat, the first edition of the camp achieved many positive results.
Ngoc added that the programme is expected to become an annual event, with plans to expand to other locations such as Hue, while continuing to return to Da Lat at least once a year. Future editions aim to further connect local photographers and partners, with the goal of promoting the beauty of Da Lat to a wider audience.