Hanoi is a treasure trove for photographers. Its lively streets, ancient architecture, and vibrant markets offer endless opportunities for capturing authentic moments. Whether you’re snapping colorful street scenes or seeking out hidden cultural crafts, Hanoi’s diversity shines through every lens. We love the Hanoi Private Photoshoot – Iconic Spots & Hidden Gems, especially for its personalized approach to blending Hanoi’s most famous sights with lesser-known treasures, perfect for creating lasting memories. It’s a great way to have a local expert help you craft portraits and discover unique angles in the city.
Many of these tours appeal to different kinds of photographers. Some focus on street photography—like the Hanoi Street Photography with a Pro, perfect for smartphone shooters eager to learn pro tips. Others like the Hanoi On the Tracks Photo Tour dig into gritty, off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, offering a raw look at daily life. No matter your style or skill level, Hanoi offers tailored experiences that promise memorable images and new skills alike.
1. Hanoi Private Photoshoot – Iconic Spots & Hidden Gems
At number 1, this private photoshoot stands out for its intimate approach. Led by talented photographers, the focus is on capturing beautiful portraits and authentic Hanoi scenes. For about $20 per person, you’ll visit iconic sites like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, but also explore lesser-known spots that give a fresh perspective. You receive 5 professionally edited digital photos plus all Raw files, making it good value for those wanting a personalized keepsake.
What makes this tour special is the customized experience, tailored to your interests and style—whether you want classic city portraits or street life shots. Perfect for travelers who want a quick, high-quality session and a handful of lasting images. The photoshoot also includes videos, adding even more variety to your collection. Reviewers appreciate the friendly guides and the ability to get both posed portraits and candid shots in just a couple of hours.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a flexible, personal, and affordable Hanoi photography session, this is a top choice.
2. Hanoi Explorer Photo Tour
Number 2 on our list, the Hanoi Explorer Photo Tour offers a well-rounded walking experience. This four-hour private expedition takes you through the Old Quarter and across Long Bien Bridge, with a focus on street and landscape photography. For $119, it includes technical tips and a professional editing session, making it ideal for photographers of all levels who want to improve their skills while seeing the city.
Guided by an expert, you’ll learn basic techniques like portrait and landscape composition. The tour is flexible, and early mornings are recommended for the best light, though it can be tailored to your schedule. Reviewers highlight the guide’s expertise, especially Brian, who is both knowledgeable and personable, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Expect to come home with photos that reflect Hanoi’s vibrant street life and architecture.
Bottom Line: This tour suits those looking for practical photography lessons with plenty of local flavor and iconic sights.
3. Hanoi On the Tracks Photo Tour
Next up, the Hanoi On the Tracks Photo Tour explores a less touristy, gritty part of Hanoi near Long Bien station. For around $144, you’ll learn from a professional photographer while capturing scenes along the railway—an area where locals live, work, and get around. The tour includes hotel transfers and a focus on street photojournalism.
What makes this tour compelling is the chance to photograph daily life and local markets in a neighborhood often missed by visitors. The guide’s insights help you master techniques like talking directly with locals and capturing candid moments. Reviewers love the cultural depth, especially Fuong’s journalistic perspective, and appreciate the opportunity to practice authentic street photography in a vibrant, real-world setting.
Bottom Line: If you want to combine culture with technical skill-building in a non-touristy district, this tour is a perfect fit.
4. Photo Tour to Capture The Vanishing Craft of Making Fish Traps
Number 4, this cultural craft takes you to Hung Yen, where local artisans weave bamboo into intricate fish traps. For around $158, you’ll photograph elderly craftsmen at work in front of weathered houses, capturing a disappearing tradition that’s visually striking.
This tour’s charm lies in its focus on preserving a piece of Vietnamese heritage. You get to document the detailed craftsmanship of the fish traps and the rustic environment that surrounds it. It’s suited for photographers interested in cultural stories and natural textures. Reviewers mention the “beautiful scene” of hands weaving traps against aged walls, making for compelling images that tell a story of change and tradition.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting to photograph cultural practices and natural craftsmanship on the brink of extinction.
5. Hanoi Street Photography with a Pro – Phone & Camera
Number 5, this street photography tour offers a 2.5-hour walk with Nguyen, a professional portrait and street photographer. Priced at $30, it’s perfect for all levels, especially smartphone users eager to learn how to elevate their shots. Nguyen shares insider tips on composition, light, and capturing candid moments across Hanoi’s bustling streets.
Reviews praise Nguyen’s relaxed, friendly style and his ability to tailor advice to different cameras and skill levels. The tour covers a variety of scenes—from quiet corners to lively markets—allowing you to practice and improve quickly. It’s ideal for travelers short on time but wanting authentic street photos with a local touch.
Bottom Line: If you want to boost your street photography skills with expert guidance, this tour offers great value.
6. Ultimate Hanoi Photography Tour
The Ultimate Hanoi Photography Tour is for serious shutterbugs ready for a full-day adventure. For $359, it covers dawn to dusk, shooting everything from train streets and craft villages to city nightlife. This 16-hour experience includes visits to inner-city life and outlying villages, with a professional guide providing techniques at each location.
Highlights include early morning shots of Hanoi’s train street, a trip to Cu Da village, and a night tour of Hanoi’s lively streets. It’s a comprehensive package suited for photographers looking for a deep dive into Hanoi’s contrasting scenes. Reviewers say it’s a “great way to see the city through a lens,” and the extensive itinerary provides excellent value for dedicated photographers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for enthusiasts who want a full-day, all-in-one photography experience capturing Hanoi’s diversity.
7. Hanoi Long Bien Sunrise Photo Tour
Number 7, the Long Bien Sunrise Photo Tour is a 4-hour early-morning adventure. For $144, you’ll learn composition and light techniques while capturing the sunrise and bustling market scenes at Long Bien Bridge and Market. The tour starts at 4:30 am, making it an ideal choice for photographers wanting spectacular morning light.
Reviewers highlight Boris’s friendly guidance and the unique opportunity to photograph Hanoi waking up before the crowds. It’s a quieter, more atmospheric way to see Hanoi’s streets, perfect for capturing dynamic light and lively street scenes early in the day.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for early risers seeking iconic sunrise images and atmospheric street shots.
8. Into the Thieves Market Hanoi Photo Tour
The Thieves Market tour offers a 4-hour exploration of Hai Ba Trung’s sprawling bazaar. At $144, you’ll photograph stalls, alleyways, and portraits of locals, all under natural sunlight filtering through overhead awnings. It’s a lively, chaotic environment ideal for practicing street portraits and candid shots.
Reviewers describe it as a “shadowy bazaar full of faces and strange offerings” and recommend it for those wanting to capture authentic local life. The market’s atmosphere creates striking images of everyday commerce, making it suitable for both amateur and experienced street photographers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those looking to capture Hanoi’s vibrant street trade and characterful faces.
9. Private Hanoi Photoshoot – Iconic Spots & Hidden Gems
A more intimate option, this private photoshoot focuses on vibrant city scenes and traditional dress, with guides helping you rent Ao Dai or other local costumes. For just $35, you’ll spend 2 hours capturing personalized portraits around Hanoi’s iconic spots.
Reviews mention guides like Lily and Meiji, who make the experience fun and relaxed, resulting in natural, joyful shots. This tour is suitable for travelers wanting high-quality portraits and culture without the rush.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking customized, memorable photos in Hanoi.
10. Cultural Hanoi Photo Walk – A Street Photography Tour
For those interested in cultural storytelling through photos, this 2-hour photo walk offers a guided exploration of Hanoi’s lively markets and streets. Led by Thanh Le, the focus is on capturing daily life, conflicts, and harmony amid the city’s contrasting scenes.
Reviewers value Thanh’s insights and the chance to practice visual storytelling. It’s a good choice for travelers wanting to go beyond tourist photos and capture Hanoi’s authentic character.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those eager to deepen their street photography with cultural insights.
11. 1 Hour Private Experience in Hanoi with a Professional Photographer
Offering a quick yet focused session, this private experience costs $70 and covers iconic scenes like Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake. Perfect for couples, families, or wedding shoots, the guide specializes in natural, candid moments.
Guests mention the guide’s professionalism and the quality of the photos. It’s a practical choice for travelers short on time but wanting a handful of professional shots.
Bottom Line: Best suited for quick, high-quality captures of Hanoi’s famous sights.
12. Hanoi Street Photography in a Vintage Community
This 4-hour workshop explores Hanoi’s Soviet-inspired vintage neighborhoods. For $98, you’ll wander maze-like lanes filled with markets, tea stalls, and aging yellow walls—great for lifestyle and architecture photos.
Reviewers appreciate the atmospheric environment and insights into street life and architecture. It appeals to those interested in retro styles and real-life scenes.
Bottom Line: Great for photographers eager to capture Hanoi’s vintage architecture and everyday scenes.
13. Hanoi by Night Photo Tour
Number 13, the Hanoi by Night is a 4-hour evening walk through the illuminated city. For $119, it offers tips on night photography and access to lively spots like the night market, fish market, and city streets, all under beautiful lighting.
Reviewers say it’s a “fantastic way to see Hanoi after dark,” with great advice from the guide on capturing the city’s nighttime energy. It’s ideal for those wanting vibrant, well-lit photos.
Bottom Line: Best for night owls and those eager to master low-light photography.
14. Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Hanoi
This private session, costing around $290 for up to 4 people, is designed for honeymoons, family shoots, or couples. It lasts about 30 minutes and covers iconic sites or your preferred locations. The guide specializes in weddings, proposals, and family moments.
Reviews highlight the guide’s friendliness and ability to capture natural, joyful expressions. It’s perfect if you want professional, personalized photos in a short timeframe.
Bottom Line: Ideal for special occasions and high-quality portraits with flexible locations.
15. Experience Hanoi with a Photographer
Lastly, this flexible experience costs $65 for 2 hours and lets you choose your preferred sites like Hoan Kiem Lake or West Lake. The guide adapts to your interests, whether it’s architecture, street life, or landmarks, making it a tailored photo walk.
Reviewers mention how comfortable they felt and the great shots captured. It’s perfect for those wanting a customized tour that fits their photography style.
Bottom Line: A flexible, personal option for capturing Hanoi’s highlights according to your interests.
$65.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Photography Experience in Hanoi
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, preferred style, and time available. For quick portraits or family photos, the Hanoi Private Photoshoot offers personalized service at a low price. If you’re into street photography and want technical tips, the Hanoi Street Photography with a Pro is a great pick, especially for phone shooters. For those wanting a comprehensive day exploring Hanoi’s contrasts, the Ultimate Hanoi Photography Tour provides a full itinerary with expert guidance.
Budget travelers will find many tours under $50 with rich content, while serious photographers might prefer the full-day or specialized craft and night tours. Booking early is advised, especially for popular early morning or sunset sessions that depend on good light.
Hanoi offers a rich variety of photography experiences suited for nearly every interest and skill level. Whether you’re after a quick portrait, street scene, or a detailed cultural shoot, these tours provide authentic ways to capture the city’s soul. Consider what kind of images you want to take home and pick the tour that best matches your style. With so many options, you’ll want to book early and prepare your camera for a memorable shoot in this lively city.