The Heart of Photography: A Cardiologist’s Journey Through Travel

As a cardiologist, I spend my days immersed in the intricate world of the human heart. Alongside this, I am a passionate travel photography enthusiast, finding joy in capturing moments that tell stories. Both medicine and photography share a deep connection—they require keen observation and a profound appreciation for the fleeting beauty of life.

Perspective on Photography

Photography allows me to seize fleeting moments and emotions. Each click of the shutter is a reminder that life is made up of brief instances, each worthy of remembrance. My passion for travel fuels my photography, inspiring me to seek out diverse cultures and landscapes. Each destination offers unique stories, allowing me to immerse myself in different ways of life. These experiences shape my worldview, reminding me of our shared humanity. Through my lens, I aim to capture not just what I see, but the essence of each place and its people.

My medical background enhances my eye for detail, allowing me to appreciate the beauty in small things. This attention to detail translates into my photography, where every shadow, light, and texture tells a story. Photography brings immense joy and fulfillment to my life, acting as a bridge between my medical career and my creative pursuits. I encourage everyone to explore photography as a means of storytelling and connection, regardless of your profession. Through the lens, we can celebrate the beauty of our world and the stories that bind us all together.

Environmental portraits truly capture the essence of a place and its people. I had an incredible experience with the rice cake makers, spending three hours in that hot, bustling environment gave me a unique perspective on their craft and daily life.

What parts of Vietnam were you traveling to and how did you come to choose them?

Vietnam is a sprawling country brimming with photographic opportunities. This was my first visit, and I chose to explore from the north to the south, making it a perfect chance to scout the iconic locations. One of the benefits of social media is the ability to research destinations and connect with a local guide. Working with him allowed me to narrow down my choices, significantly enhancing my efficiency and the quality of my experience.

What was the level of engagement you had with your subjects?

The people of Vietnam are incredibly photogenic and warm-hearted. Their curiosity made it easy to capture their essence in photographs. With the help of a local guide, the language barrier was removed, allowing me to focus more on the creative aspects of photography.

Which cameras did you bring and why?

I admit to being a gear enthusiast, traveling with a Phase One IQ4 150 in both color and achromatic versions on the XT and XF systems. I also brought along my Hasselblad X2D system. The only 35mm setup I used during my trip was a monochrome Leica M11. Additionally, I always packed a Profoto A10 speed light for my lighting needs.

Can you describe your process for gear selection on your journeys? What is important to you and how do you approach the pre-planning aspect of the trip?

Absolutely, previsualizing your subjects is a crucial first step in your creative process. It helps you envision the story you want to tell before you even pick up your camera. Having all the right tools is a fantastic advantage, but I totally get how transporting them can be a challenge, especially when you’re traveling far. The balance between having too many options and capturing the moment can be tough. I find that focusing on a few key tools tailored to each shoot can streamline your approach and allow for more spontaneous creativity. It’s all about being prepared yet adaptable, right?

What was your experience using these cameras on this trip?

While I experimented with various gear, I prefer to bring only the essential tools for each shoot, tailored to my specific needs. Carrying excessive equipment can be distracting and hinder the creative process, often leading to missed opportunities for capturing the perfect moment.

What did you like the most about your visit?

My favorite aspect of the trip was the time spent with the locals. As I mentioned earlier, they are not only curious but also incredibly photogenic. I also appreciated the diverse landscapes as I traveled from north to south. Beyond photography, I relished the opportunity to savor Vietnamese cuisine, particularly the seafood.

Did you have a guide, were you traveling with a group, or traveling alone? If you came back to Vietnam, what would you do differently?

I had a guide, and I traveled alone along with him. I am definitely planning to revisit Vietnam. Next time, I intend to stay in the northern region and rehire my guide to explore more remote, off-the-beaten-path areas.

Any advice for anyone considering a similar trip to this country?

My advice is to stay in the northern region and definitely hire a guide. Before your trip, conduct your own research, including exploring social media and photography-sharing sites. This will help both you and your guide be more efficient in selecting locations that align with your vision.

What did you appreciate about the X2D on this trip?

I used the Hasselblad X2D and 35-75, with a wide-open aperture in the below low light situation. The challenges of capturing movement and focus in such conditions really push your skills. The impressive dynamic range of the camera helped me to retrieve those details, especially with the smoke and varying light levels.

Can you describe your relationship with Capture Integration and why you’ve worked with them for so many years?

In 2010, I decided to venture into the world of Mamiya/Phase One tools, purchasing my first Leaf Aptus 28 MP digital back and a Cambo technical camera from Capture Integration. That marked the beginning of a 14-year relationship with the company, which has provided not only cutting-edge tools but also invaluable opportunities. Over time, I developed a strong professional and personal connection with Steve Hendrix, who has consistently been available for support, even 7 days a week.