In today’s digital age, countless images filled with deep stories flood social media platforms. Breathing life into each photo and embedding meaningful values so that viewers can understand and empathize is a challenging journey. Some photos may seem simple at first glance, but behind them lie genuine, emotional stories. This is the essence of photojournalism images not only reflect reality but also convey powerful messages.
Understanding students’ growing interest in photojournalism, especially among those passionate about and aspiring to pursue a long-term career in the field, ECH student group from HUFLIT’s Faculty of International Relations and Communication organized the talk show “Chạm khoảnh khắc – Light & Capture,” which drew the attention and participation of over 400 HUFLIT students.
Students participated in the talk show held at the 6th floor auditorium.
The event was organized with the participation of guest speaker Trần Tiến Dũng – a veteran photojournalist from Tuổi Trẻ Newspaper with over 30 years of experience and numerous notable achievements. Currently, he is also a lecturer in documentary photography at the Vietnam Institute of Comics and Animation.
With his extensive expertise and experience, Mr. Trần Tiến Dũng has earned several prestigious awards, including the 56th Asahi Shimbun Award (Japan) in the International Photo category (1996), and First Prize in Ho Chi Minh City Press Photo Awards with the photo series “Vietnam, A Year in Review” in the Press Photography category (2023). Additionally, he has served as a preliminary judge for the National Press Awards since 2021, contributing to the recognition of the most outstanding works in the field.
Mr. Tiến Dũng Shares Fascinating Stories with Students
Mr. Trần Tiến Dũng wholeheartedly shared his journey with students in pursuing a career in photojournalism and the many challenges he has faced throughout his 30 years of fieldwork. When he first started, he, too, was inexperienced. His early photographs were often blurry, lacked proper lighting, missed valuable moments, or even captured scenes with little meaning. However, through continuous effort, constant learning, and a deep, burning passion, he diligently honed his skills-seeking feedback from experts and gradually drawing valuable lessons from each experience. With the powerful message “Everyone starts somewhere,” Mr. Tiến Dũng emphasized to students that the first and most important steps in pursuing this career are passion and perseverance. As long as one truly loves the craft and refuses to give up, progress and growth are inevitable.
In addition to discussing the essential qualities required to pursue a career in photojournalism, Mr. Tiến Dũng also shared many stories with participants about the current challenges within the field. Given the nature of the work, capturing special, meaningful moments that convey real stories, the process of shooting in the field often comes with significant difficulties.
He emphasized the importance of learning how to anticipate upcoming moments, as doing so increases the chance of capturing the perfect shot. While predicted moments may not always unfold as expected, he advised students to set up multiple angles, as sometimes the most compelling stories come from unexpected, spontaneous captures.
Mr. Tiến Dũng also reminded students of the importance of upholding professional ethics. He stressed that every individual should stay true to their principles and avoid chasing sensational or negative news that could lead them to compromise their integrity.
Mr. Trần Tiến Dũng – A Veteran Photojournalist from Tuổi Trẻ Newspaper
The talk show “Chạm Khoảnh Khắc – Light & Capture” offered students fresh perspectives on photojournalism, along with the inspiring message: “Be passionate and persevere in pursuing your passion.”
Through this program, the organizing team hopes that students will gain a deeper understanding of the field of photojournalism, discover their own passion for photography, and feel confident in taking the first steps toward pursuing it as a career.
Students take a commemorative photo with the speaker.
