Do Duy The tells Dong Nai’s story through lens

Despite physical challenges, photographer Do Duy The from the Photography Department under the Dong Nai Literature and Arts Association has overcome adversity through determination and a strong passion for photography, steadily establishing his own path in the field.

The work “Great Century Project” by Do Duy The won first prize at the 2024 Dong Nai Artistic Photography Contest.

The artistic photographs captured through Do Duy The’s drone lens not only preserve striking moments but also reflect the story of Dong Nai’s land and people as the city continues to transform, develop, and deepen its integration.

“The drone photographer”

Born in 1985 in Gia Kiem commune, Dong Nai City, The grew up in a family with several generations engaged in photography, photo processing, and printing services for local residents in Long Khanh and Gia Kiem. However, his journey pursuing photography was not without challenges.

The shared that a serious illness during childhood left him with limited mobility. After many years of persistent treatment, his health gradually improved. Although he is now able to travel and ride a motorbike independently, one weakened leg prevents him from carrying heavy or bulky equipment.

The’s daily work involves receiving, editing, and printing photographs for clients. Through this process, his passion for photography gradually deepened as he was exposed to many striking images and creative perspectives from both professional and amateur photographers.

“At first, I simply wanted to preserve beautiful moments like many others. Later, with guidance from mentors and colleagues in the Long Khanh photography community on camera techniques, shooting angles, lighting, and composition, my passion for photography grew even stronger,” The said.

The work “Thac Mo Hydropower Plant” by Do Duy The.

From photo post-production work, Do Duy The gradually ventured into the field to gain practical experience. Realising that his physical limitations made it difficult for him to navigate rugged terrain with traditional camera equipment, he chose his own direction by pursuing aerial photography through drones. Notably, he does not follow fixed conventions, instead preferring to work independently and explore new, distinctive perspectives from above.

Selecting Long Thanh International Airport as a central theme in many of his works, Do Duy The has captured the dynamic atmosphere at the major construction site. Through his drone lens, he not only reflects the modern scale of the project but also highlights the beauty of labour and the aspirations for development of the people of Dong Nai today.

In 2023, Do Duy The was admitted to the Photography Department under the Dong Nai Literature and Arts Association. The milestone marked recognition of his dedication to pursuing his passion while also opening up opportunities for him to engage in creative activities and professional exchanges with fellow photographers in Dong Nai City.

The’s works cover a wide range of subjects, from natural landscapes and urban life to labour and everyday moments. Benefiting from aerial perspectives captured by drones, many of his photographs present fresh visual angles, contributing to the portrayal of a dynamic, creative, and rapidly developing Dong Nai.

“Sweet fruits” from field trips

In recent years, The has become a familiar face at many artistic photography contests and festivals both inside and outside the city. He actively participates in field trips to various localities to find new material for his work. His persistence and unique drone perspective have brought him 'sweet fruits' in the form of an impressive collection of awards.

His notable achievements include a third prize at the 2023 Southeastern Region Artistic Photography Festival for the work “Destination”; first prize at the 2023 Dong Nai Tourism Photo Contest for “The Amazing Bay”; and first prize at the 2024 Dong Nai Artistic Photography Contest for “Great Century Project.”

Beyond Dong Nai City, The’s drone lens has reached many other provinces and cities, earning him major awards. Notably, he won second prize at the 2025 Vietnam Salt Craft Festival - Bac Lieu for the work “Early Sun on the Salt Fields.”

Speaking about The, photographer Phạm Linh Ngọc, Head of the Photography Department under the Dong Nai Literature and Arts Association, said, “With a strong passion for photography, The has made continuous efforts in creative work and achieved many commendable awards. More importantly, he consistently explores new perspectives, contributing to promoting the image of a dynamic, compassionate, integrated, and developing Dong Nai in the new era.”

Currently, alongside his daily work, The actively takes part in field trips and continues striving to become a member of the Vietnam Association of Photographic Artists (VAPA). With resilience and a deep passion for artistic photography, Do Duy The remains devoted to his craft, continuing to “fly high” in creating valuable artistic works reflecting the land and people of Dong Nai City.

By My Ny – Translated by Minh Hong, Thu Ha