5 Common Mistakes When Taking Travel Photos in Hoi An
Hoi An is one of the most photogenic towns in Vietnam — yet many travelers leave feeling disappointed with their photos.
The reason isn’t the location.
It’s a few common travel photography mistakes that are easy to make, especially if it’s your first time visiting Hoi An.
As a local photographer, I see these mistakes every day. In this guide, I’ll show you the 5 most common mistakes when taking travel photos in Hoi An — and how to avoid them for better, more natural photos.
Mistake #1: Shooting at the Wrong Time of Day
This is the biggest mistake of all.
Many travelers start taking photos around midday — when the sun is harsh and the streets are crowded.
What goes wrong:
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Strong shadows on faces
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Washed-out colors
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Too many people in the background
What to do instead:
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Shoot early morning (6:00–8:00 AM)
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Or late afternoon (after 4:30 PM)
Hoi An looks completely different when the light is soft.
Mistake #2: Trying to Visit Too Many Photo Spots
Hoi An is small, so it’s tempting to cover everything.
But rushing from place to place leads to:
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Stress
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Forced poses
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Less emotional photos
Better approach:
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Choose 1–2 nearby locations
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Walk slowly
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Let moments happen naturally
Some of the best photos come from staying in one spot longer.
Mistake #3: Wearing the Wrong Outfits
Outfits matter more than people think.
Common outfit problems:
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Heavy patterns that clash with yellow walls
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Dark colors that absorb light
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Uncomfortable clothes that restrict movement
What works best in Hoi An:
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Light fabrics (linen, cotton)
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Neutral or warm tones (white, beige, pastel)
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Simple, timeless styles
Comfort always shows in photos.
Mistake #4: Over-Posing and Looking at the Camera Too Much
Many travelers feel they need to “perform” for the camera.
The result:
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Stiff body language
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Awkward smiles
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Photos that feel unnatural
Instead, try this:
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Walk, talk, laugh
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Look at each other, not the camera
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Focus on what you’re doing, not how you look
Natural movement always creates better travel photos.
Mistake #5: Ignoring Local Knowledge
Hoi An photography is not just about locations — it’s about timing, light, and flow.
Without local insight, travelers often:
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Go to popular spots at peak hours
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Miss hidden alleys
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Stand in the wrong light direction
Local advantage:
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Knowing quiet streets
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Understanding light patterns
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Adapting to weather quickly
This is why working with a local photographer makes a huge difference.
Bonus Mistake: Expecting Perfect, Empty Streets
Hoi An is a living town, not a movie set.
Motorbikes, locals, and tourists are part of its charm.
Instead of fighting reality:
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Embrace movement
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Use crowds creatively
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Focus on emotion over perfection
Some of the most memorable photos are the imperfect ones.
Quick Tips to Instantly Improve Your Travel Photos in Hoi An
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Slow down your pace
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Shoot in soft light
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Keep outfits simple
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Let moments happen
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Be present, not rushed
Final Thoughts
Hoi An doesn’t require expensive gear or professional modeling skills.
What it requires is:
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Good timing
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Simple choices
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A relaxed mindset
Avoid these common mistakes, and your travel photos in Hoi An will instantly feel more natural, emotional, and meaningful.
📸 Want Better Travel Photos in Hoi An?
If you’d like guidance from a local photographer in Hoi An, I’d be happy to help — whether it’s a short photoshoot or simply sharing local tips.
Reach out anytime, and let’s create photos that truly reflect your experience here.