(VOVWORLD) - Vietnam’s achievements in the renewal process and international integration have been deeply captured by young photographers of the Mekong Delta region. Their images, which see life from different perspectives, have promoted the region’s potential and culture to a wider audience.
The Vietnam Association of Photographic Artists has hosted an exhibition to review the contributions and development of photography during Vietnam’s 30-year renewal since 1986. The A prize went to Lam Thanh Liem of Bac Lieu province for an image capturing two workers at a wind power plant, which also won the top prize at several of last year’s photo competitions.
 Liem's winning entry at the exhibition hosted by the Vietnam Association of Photographic Artists
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Liem said: “I began taking photos of every stage the Bac Lieu wind power plant, from groundbreaking to the installation of the first turbine. My series about the first turbine erection won a gold medal at the Mekong Delta regional photo festival in 2012 and inspired me to take more photos of the plant. I captured the conclusion of the power project with all the turbines in the background, and workers connecting electricity to the national grid”.
Liem, 38, is currently Vice Chairman of the Bac Lieu Union of Literature and Art Association. Inheriting a passion for photography from his father, Liem began his career at 19 years of age. He pursues ideas that cannot be found elsewhere. Liem elaborated: “Over 100-meter high turbines stand against the sea, creating a stunning scene. I’m always inspired each time I’m at the power plant and intend to take more photos of it. I hope my images can trigger the pride of the Bac Lieu people living far way and make Bac Lieu attractive to those who are yet to arrive”.
 A photo by Ly Hong Van entitled "The southern beauty"
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In contrast with Liem, whose photos are about drastic life changing, Ly Hong Van of Can Tho city prefers a close-up of local culture. Some of his winning shots depict a southern farmer, the making of fermented rice flour and vermicelli cakes, and the traditional lunar new-year celebration. They show how Van carefully chose the time, characters, lighting, and angle for his photos and his pride of the local culture.
 Ut Dzach is steaming rice cakes as captured in a Van's photo
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Van said: “Almost all of my photos portray the beauty of Phong Dien district. One, entitled “Vietnamese Tet”, was taken at a joint celebration of soldiers and civilians. I get up as early as 5am to capture the process of steaming fermented rice flour to make vermicelli cakes. I take photos of local life. That’s what I love. I hope my photos help to promote Phong Dien’s tourism”.