"A Day in the Life" - How One Frame Earned Me a Sony Micro Grant and Told a Deeper Story.

Some Mornings Stay with You Forever: A Journey Through Hanoi’s Old Quarter

In the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the city stirs long before the sun rises. While many places are known for their night markets, Vietnam’s capital is best experienced in the early hours. This is when steam rises from bubbling pots and shopkeepers quietly prepare for the day ahead.

Capturing the Moment

I captured this photo during a foggy sunrise in March 2025, on my second trip to Vietnam. My first visit was in the summer of 2024. I spent seven weeks photographing day in and day out with my Sony A6700. By the time I returned this spring, I was shooting with a full-frame camera—the Sony A7CR.

What I thought was a small, fleeting moment turned out to be something much bigger. I’m honored to share that this image was selected as a winner of the A Day in the Life Sony Alpha Female micro grant.

Hand in Hand. Shot on the A7CR, Sony 16-35 GM II. ISO 320 | 35mm | F3.5 | 1/250s. March 2025.

The Power of Storytelling

I’m beyond grateful for the recognition—especially because storytelling is everything to me. Not just my own story, but the stories of other cultures and creatures too. In many ways, traveling restores my faith in humanity. There are incredible souls out there doing extraordinary things. Whether it's conservation work, preserving tradition, or simply offering kindness to a passing traveler like me, these moments matter.

When Sony Alpha Female announced their weekly micro grant theme, “A Day in the Life,” this photo immediately came to mind. In fact, I had started editing it the same day I shot it, but never finished. After seeing the announcement, I opened my SSD and dove back into post-processing. While I have plenty of colorful street photography from Vietnam, I loved the grit in this image. The low light, the puddled streets, and the mood all contributed to what felt like a true representation of Hanoi.

A Moment of Connection

Q&A from Sony Alpha Female:

Q: Can you also share a quote about how you felt making this photograph, or how you made the photograph?

A: In that quiet moment, I wasn’t thinking about awards—I was thinking about connection. I shot instinctively, hoping to capture the simple exchange of money for a bao bun. Morning street markets are the lifeblood of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Later, I realized the image reflected everything I love about travel: intimacy, culture, and the beauty of everyday life.

Check it out on FB here.

The Essence of Hanoi

Hanoi is a city that thrives on its rich history and vibrant culture. Each corner tells a story, and every street is filled with life. The aroma of street food wafts through the air, inviting locals and tourists alike to indulge in the culinary delights.

Embracing the Culture

Exploring Hanoi means embracing its culture. The people are warm and welcoming. They share their traditions with pride. Whether it’s a simple meal or a festival, each experience is a glimpse into the heart of Vietnam.

The Beauty of Everyday Life

Every day in Hanoi is a tapestry of experiences. From the bustling markets to the serene parks, there is beauty in the mundane. The daily routines of the locals create a rhythm that is both soothing and invigorating.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my journey through Hanoi’s Old Quarter has been transformative. It has taught me the importance of connection, culture, and storytelling. Each photograph I take is not just an image; it is a narrative waiting to be shared.

I hope to continue capturing these moments and sharing the beauty of everyday life.

xo,

-J