Leica Photo Adventure: Vietnam | Sep 21-30, 2026

$10,995 ($2,495 Deposit)

Only 1 Spot Left

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Workshop at a Glance

  Physical Activity
  Photographic Intensity
  Classroom Instruction
  Climate/Weather Severity
  Food and Accommodations
  Cultural Immersion
  Good for Non-photographers



  • Join us for a 10-day photographic journey through Vietnam, a country where ancient traditions, layered history, and striking landscapes offer endless visual rewards. From vibrant cities to remote mountain villages, this immersive experience is designed for photographers who want to go beyond the surface and engage deeply with Vietnam’s culture, people, and light.

    Led by photographic location expert and guide Tran Tuan Viet, as well as Leica specialist Peter Dooling, this 6 person workshop is designed for photographers who want to connect with the landscape and people of Vietnam while refining their technical and creative skills. 

    Our journey begins in Hanoi, Vietnam’s captivating capital. Here, old-world charm and modern life coexist in a dynamic visual rhythm. We’ll photograph traditional craft villages just beyond the city, including the vividly colored incense village and the bustling ceramic road, where generations of artisans continue time-honored practices. From quiet moments in rural communities to the energetic pulse of Hanoi’s streets, you’ll begin building a portfolio rooted in authentic cultural storytelling.

    Traveling south, the landscape opens dramatically in Ninh Binh, where limestone karsts rise from emerald rice fields and winding waterways. This region offers classic Vietnamese scenery with a sense of scale and calm that invites thoughtful composition. From there, we continue into the mountains toward Mu Cang Chai, home to Vietnam’s most iconic rice terraces. September brings these sculpted hillsides to life, glowing with golden tones at sunrise. We’ll rise early to photograph first light over the terraces, visit small villages, and explore remote corn houses and bamboo forests, experiencing daily life far from the tourist trail.

    Midway through the workshop, we fly to Hue, the former imperial capital. Along the Perfume River and within historic neighborhoods, we’ll focus on quieter, human-centered stories—flower-making villages, fishermen at work, and floating candles at dusk. Hue’s understated beauty and cultural depth provide rich opportunities for layered, emotionally resonant imagery.

    We conclude our journey in Hoi An, a town known for its timeless atmosphere and beautiful light. From the iconic fishing nets of Cua Dai to lantern-lit streets and traditional craft workshops, Hoi An offers a gentle, poetic ending to the trip. As we depart from Da Nang on the final day, you’ll leave with a strong, cohesive body of work, and a deeper connection to Vietnam, shaped by meaningful encounters and moments shared along the way.

    This workshop balances iconic locations with thoughtful pacing, allowing you to photograph the Vietnam in depth while refining your creative vision. While other cameras are certainly allowed on this trip, the focus is on Leica camera systems and learning how to use them to their full potential.

     

  • Dates:

    Monday, September 21 - Wednesday, September 30, 2026

    Cost: 

    $10,995 - Double occupancy lodging (Single room available for $1400)

    Size:

    Limited to 6 attendees

    Included in the cost of the trip:

    • Double occupancy lodging in 5 star hotels & resorts (Single room available for $1400)
    • All meals
    • Domestic flight with business lounge access
    • Boat trip in Hoi An
    • Private bus with 2 seats per photographer
    • Site entry fees and model fees
    • Unlimited bottled water
    • Gratuities for our guide Viet
    • In the field photography instruction
    • 1-on-1 post processing and review sessions (when time allows)
    • Loaner Leica equipment (*limited availability)

    Not included:

    • International Airfare
    • Alcoholic beverages and snacks
    • Additional hotel nights
    • Medical travel Insurance (required)
    • Visas (if necessary)

    Climate

    In late September, much of Vietnam is transitioning from late summer into early autumn, and the weather can vary noticeably between the north and central regions. In Hanoi and nearby Ninh Binh, you can expect warm, humid days with temperatures typically in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (24–30°C). This period still falls within the tail end of the rainy season in northern Vietnam, so short, occasional showers or passing thunderstorms are possible, often in the afternoon or evening, though they are usually brief. As the journey continues south to Hue and Hoi An, conditions remain warm and tropical, with similar temperatures but a higher chance of rain, as central Vietnam begins to enter its wetter season. Rain typically arrives in bursts rather than all-day storms, and there are still plenty of bright intervals between showers. Lightweight clothing, a good rain jacket, and breathable fabrics will keep you comfortable while exploring the region’s cities, countryside, and coastal landscapes.

    Getting there and back

    International travelers will arrive in Hanoi via Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), the primary gateway to northern Vietnam. The tour will begin at 2:00pm at the Intercontinental Hanoi Landmark 72. At the conclusion of the tour, participants will depart from Da Nang via Da Nang International Airport (DAD), located about 45 minutes from Hoi An. We will arrive at the airport at about Noon, so book your flight at 3:00pm or later.

    Early Start Times

    In order to capture the best light and atmosphere, some of our shoots will begin early; sometimes before sunrise.


    Drones

    This is a great trip for drone photography should you wish to bring one. Our local guide Viet has permits for the group and you can get some very creative compositions from above. 

    Signing Up

    To sign up for the photo adventure, just pay the deposit, and single room supplement if you so choose, here on our websiteemail us (workshops@leicastoremiami.com) or call 305-921-4433. We are happy to answer any questions you may have. 

    We look forward to seeing you in Vietnam!


     
  • ITINERARY

    Monday, Sep 21st: Arrival in Hanoi

    Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam’s lively and historic capital, where your photographic journey begins. To ensure a smooth start to the workshop, we recommend arriving between 8–9 AM. As always, arriving a day early is strongly encouraged, giving you time to rest, adjust to the time zone, and settle in before we begin.

    The workshop officially begins around 2:00 PM with an introductory meeting at the hotel, followed by our first photographic outing. We’ll travel to one of Vietnam’s traditional incense-making villages, where vibrant bundles of drying incense create striking graphic patterns and rich color palettes. You’ll have the opportunity to photograph artisans at work, learn about the centuries-old process, and engage directly with the local community—an ideal setting for both environmental portraits and detail-driven compositions.

    In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner, a relaxed opportunity to get to know one another over delicious Vietnamese cuisine. It’s the perfect way to unwind after travel, share expectations for the days ahead, and ease into the rhythm of the workshop.


    Accommodation: Intercontinental Hanoi Landmark 72

    Tuesday, Sep 22nd: Hanoi: Craft, Color and Daily Life

    We begin early, departing around 5:00 AM to photograph Hanoi’s iconic ceramic road in the soft, directional light of morning. As the city wakes, repeating patterns and quiet movement create graphic, minimalist compositions.


    After breakfast back at the hotel, we travel to Ban Village, where we document the traditional process of soy sauce making, a craft deeply rooted in rural Vietnamese life. The combination of portraiture, environment, and working hands makes this an ideal storytelling location.

    Lunch is enjoyed at Cay Cau Restaurant, followed by an afternoon visit to a community of bamboo fishing trap makers. Here, rhythm, texture, and craftsmanship take center stage as we focus on intimate moments of skilled labor. We return to Hanoi in the evening for dinner and image sharing.

    Accommodation: Intercontinental Hanoi Landmark 72

    Wednesday, Sep 23rd: Duong Lam & Ninh Binh

    After breakfast and checkout, we head to Duong Lam, one of Vietnam’s oldest villages. Time moves slowly here, and we focus on environmental portraits, particularly of elderly women whose faces reflect generations of lived history.
    After lunch, we continue south to Ninh Binh, arriving in the late afternoon. Limestone karsts rise dramatically from rice fields and waterways, setting the visual tone for the days ahead. Dinner and overnight in Ninh Binh.



    Accommodation: Muong Thanh Luxury Phu Tho

    Thursday, Sep 24th: Ninh Binh to Mu Cang Chai

    We begin before sunrise, photographing floating water lilies as first light reflects across still water—an exercise in patience, subtle color, and composition.
    After breakfast and checkout, we begin the scenic drive toward Mu Cang Chai, traveling deeper into Vietnam’s rural north. Following lunch en route, we stop at Tu Le viewpoint for sunset, where sweeping valleys and layered farmland glow in warm evening light.

    We arrive at our hotel in the evening and enjoy dinner surrounded by quiet mountain landscapes.



    Accommodation: Garrya Resort

    Friday, Sep 25th: Mu Cang Chai: Terraces at First Light

    An early start brings us to Mam Xoi viewpoint, accessed by motorbike, where sculpted rice terraces form elegant curves beneath drifting morning mist. This is one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes and a highlight of the trip.
    After breakfast, the afternoon is spent photographing traditional corn houses and nearby rice terraces as the light softens and deepens in color. We focus on scale, repetition, and the relationship between people and land. Dinner at the hotel.



    Accommodation: Garrya Resort

    Saturday, Sep 26th: Return to Hanoi & Flight to Hue

    After breakfast and checkout, we begin the journey back toward Hanoi, stopping for lunch in Yen Bai. From there, we board our flight south to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital.

    Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and enjoy dinner, settling into a city shaped by royal history, riverside life, and understated elegance.



    Accommodation: Melia Vinpearl Hue

    Sunday, Sep 27th: Hue: Craft, River Life & Candlelight

    After breakfast, we visit Thanh Tien Village, where artisans continue the centuries-old tradition of making paper flowers. This morning focuses on close details, hands at work, and environmental portraits.
    After lunch, we photograph local fishermen along the river before transitioning into dusk, capturing the gentle glow of floating candles as they drift across the water. As night falls, we enter a sacred temple, where candlelight and silence create a contemplative atmosphere for low-light photography. Dinner in Hue.



    Accommodation: Melia Vinpearl Hue

    Monday, Sep 28th: Hue to Hoi An

    After breakfast and checkout, we travel south to Hoi An, arriving late morning. Our first photographic encounter is with Madam Song, a beloved local figure whose elegance and character make for powerful portraiture.
    After lunch and hotel check-in, we travel by boat to Cua Dai, where fishermen cast massive nets in a choreographed rhythm against open skies—an unforgettable visual experience. The evening is spent photographing Hoi An’s ancient town, where lanterns illuminate textured walls and narrow streets at sunset. Dinner in town.



    Accommodation: Wafaifo Resort

    Tuesday, Sep 29th: Hoi An

    Today we'll rise early for two intimate documentary sessions. First, we photograph artisans mending fishing nets, focusing on repetition, gesture, and quiet concentration. We then visit sedge mat weavers, surrounded by vivid colors and graphic patterns that provide a vibrant conclusion to the journey.



    Accommodation: Wafaifo Resort

    Wednesday, Sep 30th: Departure

    After breakfast, we return to the hotel to pack and check out. By 12:00 PM, we arrive at Da Nang International Airport (DAD) for onward departures, concluding a journey defined by connection, craftsmanship, and meaningful photographic storytelling.



  • Payment

    A $2495 deposit, along with the single supplement room fee if you choose it, is due at the time of registration. The balance will be due on June 21, 2026. 

    Withdrawal and Refund Policy

    Enrollment is limited to 6 participants, and once you sign up, we are counting on your attendance. If you need to withdraw from this workshop, please notify us in writing (email is acceptable) as soon as possible. This is our refund policy:

    If you cancel and we find someone to fill your seat, we will refund you the full amount you have paid towards the tuition, minus a $250 service charge. If you cancel and we cannot find someone to fill your seat, then you will be refunded according to the following schedule:

    At least 90 days before the start of the workshop: Full refund minus $250 service fee.
    Between 89 and 60 days before the start of the workshop: 75% refund
    Between 59 and 45 days before the start of the workshop: 50% refund
    Less than 45 days from the start of the workshop: No refund

    Course Cancellation and Other Terms

    Leica Store Miami reserves the right to cancel a reservation if full payment has not been received by 90 days prior to the start of the workshop.

    In the event that this workshop must be canceled due to inadequate enrollment, all fees and deposits will be refunded in full or may be transferred to another workshop within 24 months.

    In the unlikely event of illness, accident or injury to one of the instructors, Leica Store Miami reserves the right to replace that instructor with a comparable instructor.

    In the event of a natural disaster or severe weather event, Leica Store Miami reserves the right to postpone or cancel the workshop.

    Medical Insurance (required)



    Emergency medical insurance through a provider like Allianz or similar is required to participate in any of Leica Store Miami's international workshop.



    Travel Insurance (STRONGLY recommended)



    Leica Store Miami is not responsible for cancellations due to medical or personal emergencies so we highly recommend that you protect your investment. Companies like Travelex and Allianz Global Assistance are reputable but you can choose any vendor you like. Leica Store Miami is not responsible for reimbursement of non-refundable airline tickets in the event of a workshop cancellation. If you travel several times per year, you may consider purchasing an annual travel insurance plan from a provider like Allianz or similar.

    Camera Gear Insurance (STRONGLY recommended)

    We advise all of our workshop attendees to insure their camera gear against damage, theft, loss, etc. If your gear is not already insured, check with your home owner's insurance to see if they offer coverage. There are several photo specific insurance policies out there as well.

    Communicable Illness Protocols

    Our main goal on all of our tours is to keep everyone safe. To that end, we ask that everyone do their best to avoid exposure to communicable diseases like Covid-19, influenza, RSV, etc before and during our trip. If someone in our group becomes ill on the trip and we deem it to be harmful to the group, we reserve the right to remove them from group activities where social distancing is not possible.


    Single Room Policy

    If you sign-up for double occupancy room sharing and there are no other attendees to pair you with, you will be responsible for paying the single room supplement.

    Transfers

    If for any reason you wish to transfer your deposit or workshop fee, please notify us by email. You must register and complete a new workshop within 24 months of the withdrawal. We reserve the right to accept or deny any transfer.

    There are no exceptions to our Cancellation and Transfer Policy.



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