The author expressed his happiness at being able to introduce the book to the public on War Invalids and Martyrs' Day (27/7), after nearly a month of conceptualizing and preparing.
Nguyen A included aerial photos of Ho Chi Minh City's development, taken from the lead helicopter during the April 30th grand celebration.
The book also features images of the military and various groups preparing for the parade and march. The author captured moments from their arrival at the airport, their sweat-drenched training sessions under the scorching sun, to their participation in the main event. He also documented the crowds who lined the streets to watch the event and fireworks, showcasing their patriotism and national pride.
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Nguyen A's favorite aerial photo, chosen as the cover of "50 Years of Vietnam's Strength". Photo: Tan Cao |
The photographer described the grand celebration as emotionally charged and the most challenging assignment of his career to date. He recounted sleeping on the streets and forgoing meals to keep up with the events. "Despite the challenges, holding the finished book in my hands fills me with happiness, knowing I poured my heart and soul into my love for the city and my passion for photography," he said.
At the event, Lieutenant Colonel Truong Thanh Binh, the helicopter pilot, shared behind-the-scenes details of working with Nguyen A in the air. He explained that before taking off, they carefully discussed all aspects to ensure safety during the shoot and to select the best angles. According to Nguyen A, he had to maintain intense focus, anticipate the action, choose the right lenses, and employ steady camera techniques to capture the desired shots.
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Duong Van Ung, 89, Nguyen A's former high school teacher, expressed pride as he turned the pages of the book. "I have witnessed many periods of transformation in this city. Looking at these photos taken by my student evokes a sense of nostalgia. These images will serve as valuable resources for future generations who want to learn about Ho Chi Minh City." Photo: Tan Cao |
The author also released "City of Peace - Our City," showcasing the architecture, historical sites, daily life, and stories of Ho Chi Minh City, where he was born and raised. Actor Chi Bao, who appears in the book as the Director of the Museum of Ceramics of the Founding Period, expressed his appreciation for the photographer's dedication and the messages conveyed within its pages.
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Large prints of the photos are on display at Ho Chi Minh City Book Street from 27/7 to 29/7. Photo: Tan Cao |
Nguyen A, 57, was a member of the Gia Dinh Photography Club in Ho Chi Minh City. He has published dozens of photo books accompanied by exhibitions, including notable works such as "Tam and Tai - Who Are They?" (2013), "Hoang Sa - Truong Sa, Vietnam's Islands and Seas" (2014), "11 Intangible Cultural Heritages of Vietnam Recognized by UNESCO" (2017), and "They Lived Like This" (2022). In March, he garnered attention with his book "Rising from Lang Nu Village," documenting the lives and resilience of the villagers after the devastating floods of 9/2024.
Tan Cao
