Early this afternoon, I made my way to Hoan Gallery at Ly Tu Trong St. in District 1.

Bui Thi Hoang Anh, the manager of the gallery greeted me and told me a bit of herself and the business while we waited for the photographer, Mr. Tran Huy Hoan.

Although Anh translated for me all throughout the interview Mr. Hoan’s answers to my questions — and you’d think I’d have a hard time conducting the interview because of the language barrier — I actually enjoyed this session very much.  Mr.  Hoan exuded warmth and quiet confidence.

I actually felt very bold taking out my Canon Powershot G12 and taking photos of a professional wielding a Canon 5D Mark II.  Mr. Hoan never made me feel that he knew more about photography than I.  I should have asked him for tips but was too shy to pit my lowly G12 against his powerful camera.  At least we both agree that Canon IS THE CAMERA. 🙂

Mr. Hoan is one of the few photographers who actually gave the Vietnamese people a nudge to open their minds into the realm of nude art.  I must admit that I’m not really a follower of this type of photography. BUT seeing the stunning nude art photographs by Mr. Hoan made me a fan.  You can see why:

Being a postcrosser, I had to ask if he publishes some of his work in postcards.  The answer is YES!  Unfortunately, they produce very limited copies.  And I got one of them, signed by Mr. Hoan!  So…nope, no postcrosser will ever receive this.  It’s my favorite in the gallery.

For aspiring photographers or if you just want to be inspired, visit Hoan Gallery.

Thanks Anh and Mr. Hoan for the lovely afternoon chat!