After pondering over the task of selecting my most favorite images from 2023, I have finally committed to this personal project. With life now settling into a rhythm following my immersive journey through Asia, revisiting my 2023 collection brings me immense joy. Each image evokes memories for which I am deeply grateful.
In 2023, I celebrate the second year of my photographic journey. These past two years have been filled with incredible opportunities behind the lens, empowering me to create and convey my innermost self. Photography has bestowed upon me a newfound appreciation for life’s simplest pleasures, a medium through which I freely express my emotions, and a gateway to forging meaningful friendships along the way.
Echoing Ansel Adams’ words, “You don’t make a photograph just with a camera. You bring to the act of photography all the pictures you have seen, the books you have read, the music you have heard, the people you have loved.” The following 12 images encapsulate the essence of my yearlong journey. Each place and every moment holds a deeply cherished place in my heart. I hope you find pleasure in exploring my images, and I am delighted if any of them resonate with you.
Nature
Capturing the beauty of nature is a passion that fills me with immense joy. Immersing myself in the serene landscapes and vibrant colors allows me to appreciate nature’s wonders deeply. With each click, I seek to preserve the fleeting moments, from delicate petals to the majestic mountains. Exploring the outdoors with my camera allows me to connect with nature on a deeper level while preserving its splendor for others to enjoy.
Of all flowers, cherry blossoms have always been my favorite subject to photograph. Every year, their blooming marks the arrival of spring, lifting spirits after the darkness of winter. I feel fortunate to have lived in Japan for numerous years, and now in Vancouver, where nearly every street corner is adorned with pink blossoms every spring, boasting thousands of different types of cherry trees.
I found immense joy in observing the quarter moon suspended above the blooming cherry tree. Capturing this image of the Yamazakura tree was a serene moment during my journey home from work, taken at Marine Cres.
During an early morning stroll along Bayshore in Vancouver, I caught sight of the full moon. Despite the biting cold and frosted plants, the serene scene of the moon overhead and birds gracefully gliding about made it a profoundly peaceful morning.
As I made my way back from an afternoon stroll at Mundy Park, Coquitlam, I was captivated by the stunning sidelight filtering through the trees. The gentle illumination beautifully highlighted the leaves, infusing joy into the hearts of hikers, bikers, and park strollers who cherish their time amidst nature’s embrace.
During the summer, a couple of delightful yellow-tail butterflies graced the courtyard of a student residence near my office. It seemed drawn to the beauty and sweet fragrance of the lavender, much like myself. I felt overjoyed to capture a shot of the butterfly, especially when a bee decided to join the party, adding an extra touch of charm to the scene.
Sunset
Capturing the breathtaking beauty of sunset scenes is a passion that ignites my soul. There is something truly magical about witnessing the sky ablaze with vibrant hues as the sun dips below the horizon, painting a masterpiece of colors across the canvas of the heavens. Each sunset is a unique symphony of light and shadow, evoking a sense of wonder and awe within me. I enjoy capturing the serene beauty of the fading sun, preserving these fleeting moments of tranquility for eternity. Whether it is the silhouette of trees against a fiery sky or the reflection of colors dancing on calm waters, photographing sunsets fills me with a profound sense of joy and reverence for the natural world.
In 2023, Gladstone Park in the neighborhood became my daily retreat during the blue hour, offering a perfect vantage point to witness the mesmerizing sunsets and conclude each day on a serene note. This sunset sky is one of the most dramatic and breathtaking I have ever witnessed.
I captured this image during sunset in North Vancouver using intentional camera movement. I love the contrast between the ocean’s blue hues and the golden glow of the setting sun reflecting on the water.
An iconic scene: high-rise apartments lining the Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. I aim to capture the high-rise buildings from a unique perspective, using multiple exposures to create a blurred cityscape effect during the blue hour.
Vancouver’s Nine O’Clock Gun was one of the highlight of my photography course I took in 2023. After an evening stroll through Stanley Park, we eagerly awaited the firing of the cannon.
Autumn Scene
Autumn holds a special place in my heart, perhaps because I was born in October, making it my favorite season. I love everything about autumn—the crisp air, beautiful blue sky, vibrant foliage, and cozy atmosphere evoke a sense of nostalgia and renewal. It is a season of change and introspection, reminding us to embrace new beginnings and cherish the beauty of transformation.
This courtyard behind my former office is my favorite spot. During springtime, the place is adorned with shades of pink, while in autumn, it is carpeted with colorful foliage. I often enjoyed lunch breaks here, relishing the fresh air on pleasant days.
Before our office relocation last fall, I dedicated some time to capturing the beauty of the courtyard at St. John College. The serene beauty of this place never fails to captivate me.
I enjoy letting my imagination roam free as I immerse myself in the stunning autumn scenery. I aimed to evoke a painterly effect, as though the scene were rendered in watercolor, enhancing depth and blurring the lines between reality and imagination.
Impressionism
I have a strong affection for the impressionist style in photography. Its ability to capture fleeting moments and evoke emotion through light, color, and texture resonates deeply with me. Through impressionist techniques such as intentional camera movement and multiple exposures, I enjoy exploring the ethereal and dreamlike qualities of the world around me. By embracing this artistic approach, I find a unique means of expressing my vision and inviting viewers to experience the beauty of the world in a new and captivating way.
I found joy in capturing the movement within the bustling urban settings of vibrant Quebec City. I love the striking contrast of the red brick wall and white window, creating a perfect backdrop for the vibrant passersby in their colorful attire.
View the whole collection here:
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Phuong Dinh 