Resilience
Resilience
2022, Lan Ha Bay, Vietnam | I took this photo in late 2022 during an exhilarating solo trip to Vietnam. Toward the beginning of the trip, I took a bus from Hanoi out to Cát Bà Island, a lush jungle paradise adjacent to the iconic Ha Long Bay, often considered the most beautiful bay in the world. Lan Ha Bay, where this image was taken, is Ha Long’s less-touristy but equally-stunning neighbor. It’s a geologic extension of Ha Long and is filled with hundreds of towering limestone formations, also known as karsts. It’s truly a place that demands to be seen in person.
Thanks to the stormy conditions on this trip, I decided to focus my attention more on the human element. This photo captures the essence of rural Vietnamese life amidst unpredictable weather during the monsoon season. In it, a local villager braves the stormy conditions on a floating platform, often used to round up the day’s ever-dwindling catch of fish. Many of these locals live in fishing villages, oftentimes a patchwork collection of floating houses far removed from modern society and conveniences. In recent years, the families have faced increased hardships, as climate change continues to fuel stronger storms which decimate the fish population. Overtourism is also contributing to pollution and the further degradation of natural resources. The future is uncertain for those who choose (or are born into) this way of life, but through a focus on sustainable tourism, construction, and fishing practices, there is a glimmer of hope that this ancient lifestyle can be maintained.
Camera Details: Canon R, 200mm
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Detailed descriptions of print material options can be found below. All prints come unframed by default.
Metal: A sleek, modern option that can be mounted without a frame for a floating appearance. Printed via dye sublimation on ChromaLuxe aluminum sheets—the highest-quality metal on the market. These prints are incredibly durable and will last for 65+ years without fading. An aluminum float mount backing is included. These work best in homes with modern styling or in high-traffic areas. Aluminum thickness: 1/16”
Acrylic: Printed on high-resolution, gallery-quality metallic paper, which is then mounted behind clear acrylic. These prints provide a luminous 3D look, especially when lit from the front. A 3/4” aluminum backing mount is included, which gives the print a floating appearance when hung. Acrylic prints are my personal favorite, as their depth really brings images to life. Acrylic thickness: 1/4”
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Paper Prints: Options include glossy, matte, or metallic paper. Glossy prints are ideal if you want bright, vibrant colors with a high degree of shine and you don’t plan on using a glass frame. Matte paper works better if the photo will be displayed behind glass or in a room with direct sunlight. Since they lack shine and reflectivity, they aren’t quite as vivid as glossy prints. Metallic prints are printed on Moab Slickrock paper and take on a more dramatic, iridescent quality. They generally have a higher perceived value and work best with colorful images. This paper is sturdy and fingerprint-resistant. These all come unframed, but can be framed upon request for an additional fee.
