Fishing, Phu Yen, Vietnam

Description

An anchovy fishing boat releases a huge net in the sea off Phu Yen Province in southern Vietnam. The anchovy fishing season is usually in the summer and lasts for more than two months. Each time, fishermen catch 10 to 20 baskets of fish. Each basket weighs 20 kilograms (44 pounds) and can be sold for about $45 (U.S.).

National Geographic Your Shot – Mar 30, 2020

Behold a stunning portrayal frozen in a singular moment—a fine-art print, a photograph encapsulating the essence of an anchovy fishing expedition off the shores of Phu Yen Province in southern Vietnam. The image immortalizes the laborious yet rhythmic dance of a fishing boat as it gracefully releases a vast net into the expansive sea. This visual tale unfolds during the anchovy fishing season, an annual spectacle that unfolds over more than two months.

The photograph encapsulates the essence of the endeavor, where skilled fishermen embark on a journey to capture the bounty of the sea. The composition captures the essence of their toil, with each frame narrating a story of resilience and perseverance. The scene unfolds against the backdrop of the summer sky, painting a vivid picture of the environmental context.

The harvest is quantified in tangible terms—10 to 20 baskets of anchovies, each basket bearing a weighty cargo of 20 kilograms (44 pounds) of silver-scaled treasures. This visual narrative goes beyond aesthetics, providing a glimpse into the economic intricacies of the fishing industry. The worth of their labor is translated into monetary value, with each basket fetching an approximate sum of $45 (U.S.). The photograph, in its unadorned beauty, serves as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between man and nature, highlighting the delicate equilibrium maintained in the pursuit of sustenance.

In this print, the artistry lies not in embellishments or elaborate descriptions but in the authenticity of the captured moment—a slice of life preserved and presented for contemplation and appreciation.