'Passion is completely different from service.'

((Baonghean) - An An Nguyen (real name Nguyen Van An) was born in Hung Tay (Hung Nguyen). Currently, An is a final-year student in the Industrial Design Department of the Hanoi Open University, and is the author of many surreal photo series that are popular with young people... Nghe An Newspaper had an interesting conversation with An An.

A surreal photographic work by An, depicting herself. (Photo provided by the subject.)

"There are things we should look forward to."

ButWhat led you to photography?

I moved to Hanoi, starting a new life where there were few people to rely on, no one to protect or pamper me. In this new environment, I initially isolated myself, without friends, meeting no one, always withdrawn into a dark room. I felt lonely and unbalanced. But then I realized that loneliness was even more terrifying than the world I was facing. I found my own way out, adapting to my new environment. That way was a camera. I defined it as something supernatural, unlike painting or writing; a single click of the shutter would capture a moment you'd never see again, or like a poem or an essay that didn't require paper or pen.

- Is this your first photographic work?

- Speaking of my first work, I probably don't dare look back at it, from the time when I was just starting to use a computer and knew nothing about Photoshop. It looked truly pathetic! There are things we should look forward to rather than dwell on the past, right?!

"A tailor who makes traditional Vietnamese dresses (áo dài) isn't necessarily good at making suits or dress pants."

- Has An ever studied photography anywhere or from anyone?

- I taught myself everything, from using cameras to photo editing tools; I figured it all out on my own, without relying on anyone. It's true that when you walk alone without guidance, success brings more happiness than anything else.

- Why is An so fascinated with surrealist photography?

- Surreal photography is a genre rooted in Symbolism, placing the irrational above reason. This trend helps people liberate themselves from social "shackles," expressing their inner selves and natural thoughts, unconstrained by logic, reasoning... In short, it's fiction (laughs).

I've photographed many genres, and I'm confident I can do it, even quite well in the genres I've photographed: weddings, newborns, maternity photos. But passion is something completely different from service. I'm passionate about surreal photography because it's always a trend aimed at liberating people from the shackles and constraints of the world, expressing their inner selves and thoughts in the most relaxed way. It's not bound by issues of right and wrong, logic, or reasoning... It's the best way to evoke strong emotions for the subject I want to portray.

An's photos have been positively received by the online community. However, according to some sources, An has never participated in any photography competitions. Can An provide readers with an explanation?

- Actually, I once participated in a competition organized by Canon, but I didn't win anything. And I just considered it an experience to see where I stood. As you can see, a tailor who makes traditional Vietnamese dresses isn't necessarily good at making suits or trousers, a construction worker might be good at building high-rises but not good at building temples or pagodas, a barber who cuts men's hair beautifully isn't necessarily good at cutting women's hair... These are all very normal things that can happen.

The message conveyed through this surreal photo series: "Don't turn into stone; your soul will always be frozen." Photos provided by the subject.

- What has An's passion for photography brought her?

- So much! If you ask me what photography has given me, that's exactly it. Spiritually, it has made life more interesting because it contains passion and inspiration, and allows me to express what I want to say but lack the ability to write. I've gained more respect from people, and financially, it has helped me a lot. I've built better relationships and had the opportunity to meet and work with famous and successful people that not everyone gets to experience.

- Nghe An province in general, and Vinh city in particular, are developing very strongly in all aspects, and photography is among them. Does An intend to return to her hometown to start a career?

- I'm about to graduate; several reputable studios in Hanoi, Vinh City, and other districts have invited me to collaborate. But I'm hesitant, wondering if, given my personality, I'd be able to fully utilize my abilities and work effectively in such an environment, and also considering the profitability. It's the new century, you know, you can't just live for your passion and expect to succeed (laughs).

Thank you, An, for sharing these interesting insights!

Tian Tian

(Perform)