Exploring Vietnam’s Streets with a Borrowed Fuji Camera: A Photographer’s Journey 📷

I spent a couple of enchanting days meandering through Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital, primarily exploring the historic Old Quarter. The area is steeped in a rich and lively atmosphere that captivates every visitor. Despite its aged appearance, the Old Quarter thrives with a natural and authentic charm.

From the bustling street vendors to the everyday residents, everyone seems to live in a harmonious and unpretentious way. Strolling through the narrow streets, snapping photos, and pausing for a leisurely cup of coffee are simple pleasures that don’t break the bank but leave you feeling wonderfully relaxed.

One of the most memorable aspects of my visit was the sight of flower and fruit vendors lining the streets. They often peddle their wares on old bicycles, which they adorn with an artistic flair. Even the simplest fruits, arranged in bamboo baskets on these bikes, look irresistibly charming. I fondly refer to them as “flower buses” and “fruit mobile castles,” a whimsical nod to their unique and picturesque presence.

For this trip, I borrowed a friend’s Leica Q1, an older model by today’s standards. With a 28mm fixed focal length, approximately 20 million pixels, and 1080p video capability, it may not be cutting-edge, but it still exudes a timeless elegance. The camera’s color rendering and shadow detail are unmistakably Leica, maintaining a high-end feel.

Somewhere along the way, I developed a fondness for using these vintage digital cameras to capture contemporary scenes. You can think of these cameras as middle-aged, gradually distancing themselves from the latest technological trends, yet bringing a sense of nostalgia and depth to the present day, all the way to 2025.