Saigon through 90 frames: Veteran photographers chronicle a changing city

Organized by the Saigon Photography Sub-Association, the exhibition is being held at the Ho Chi Minh City Photography Association at 122 Suong Nguyet Anh Street in Ben Thanh Ward from August 22 through September 10.

The event marks the 81st anniversary of the August Revolution (August 19) and National Day (September 2), as well as the 33rd anniversary of the establishment of the Saigon Photography Sub-Association in 1993.

The 90 photographs cover a wide range of subjects, from urban life, work, education, creativity, construction and national defense to traditional cultural values, festivals and ordinary moments of daily life.

The works portray Ho Chi Minh City as dynamic and compassionate, while showing how traditional values blend with modern urban life.

They also capture stories about people, family bonds, culture and the changes taking place across the city.

Doan Hoai Trung, chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Photography Association, praised the Saigon Photography Sub-Association for its contributions to the city’s photography community at the exhibition’s opening ceremony.

The 90 photographs provide vivid, diverse perspectives on everyday life, the city’s development and its beauty, Doan said.

Cao Thi Thanh Ha, head of the Saigon Photography Sub-Association, said the club currently has around 35 members, most of whom are experienced photographers who have maintained close ties with the city.

The club’s strength lies in its members’ long-standing connection with the city and deep experience, Ha said, adding that although age can limit their health and time for fieldwork, their passion and dedication to photography remain strong.

The exhibition also gives members an opportunity to exchange creative experience and seek new perspectives on people, culture and urban life.

After 33 years of activity, the Saigon Photography Sub-Association continues to contribute to the city’s photography community.

The photographs on display also help preserve moments from the present while reflecting Ho Chi Minh City’s cultural and historical values and its ongoing development.