VI
EN
Nguyen Minh Anh, also known by his nickname "ACBaka," is a unique and passionate fireworks photographer. Hailing from the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, at the age of 30, Minh Anh has had an inspiring journey from his early days of taking photos out of passion to becoming one of the few photographers dedicated to the art of fireworks photography.
The art of fireworks – where light and color intertwine in the sky.
His passion began when he received his first camera from his family during his university days, but it wasn't until 2023, after three years living in Japan, that his love for photography was truly ignited. Japan, with its captivating seasons and unique culture, became the catalyst that led photographer Minh Anh on a new creative journey. In particular, the art of fireworks – where light and color intertwine in the sky – captivated him with its brilliance, complexity, and profound meaning.
“During my three years living in Japan, I wasn't truly passionate about photographing fireworks, even though I tried it a few times. It wasn't until the end of 2023, when I happened to photograph a small fireworks display in Osaka, that I changed my mind. That's when I met a fellow fireworks photographer – initially, I thought he was Japanese, because very few Vietnamese people pursue this genre. But it turned out he was also Vietnamese. It was from this encounter that I began to nurture the plan to photograph as many fireworks as possible in 2024 – my last year in Japan,” Minh Anh recounted.
In Japan, fireworks are considered a high art form, created by the skilled hands of renowned fireworks companies, also known as "hanabi-ya." Names like Marutamaya Ogatsu Fireworks and Shibata Fireworks have created mesmerizing displays with their exquisite designs and interplay of light and color.
Marutamaya Ogatsu Fireworks stands out with romantic designs such as heart-shaped and star-shaped fireworks, combined with music to create a magnificent atmosphere. Kato Fireworks, on the other hand, makes its mark with complex effects such as color-changing fireworks, animations, and multi-tiered displays, demonstrating absolute precision. Beniya Aoki Fireworks from Nagano offers vibrant and rare colors, while Yamamiya Fireworks combines fireworks with traditional festivals, famous for its long-lasting "fire waterfall" effect. Shibata Fireworks creates fireworks displays inspired by nature, featuring images of flowers, leaves, or animals.
What makes Japanese fireworks so special is also the large-scale competitions, such as the one in Omagari (Akita), where companies compete with creativity and professional pride. It is precisely because of the brilliance of these "flowers of light" that photographer Minh Anh decided to explore and document these displays, from major festivals like Nagaoka in Niigata – one of the three largest fireworks festivals in Japan – to smaller events in peaceful towns like Gero Onsen on Christmas Eve.
In Japan, fireworks are considered a high art form.
Each fireworks photograph taken by photographer Minh Anh is the result of patience, effort, and meticulous preparation. To find the ideal shooting location, he often has to book tickets months in advance or travel dozens of kilometers to reach the best fireworks viewing spots. In addition, Minh Anh shared that weather is also one of the biggest challenges when photographing fireworks. “Weather is the deciding factor in the success or failure of fireworks photography,” he said. “Just a change in wind direction or increased humidity, the smoke from the fireworks can completely obscure the view, ruining the shoot. Sometimes, the festival is even canceled at the last minute due to a storm.”
Each fireworks photograph taken by photographer Minh Anh is the result of patience, effort, and meticulous preparation.
In remote locations, he had to leave several days in advance to secure a spot. Once in Fukushima, he encountered difficulties due to trees obstructing his view. Fortunately, with the help of a local resident, he was able to capture stunning fireworks displays, creating unforgettable memories in his creative journey.
One of photographer Minh Anh's most memorable experiences was Christmas Eve 2022 at Gero Onsen. He and his girlfriend happened to learn about a fireworks display near their residence. Although the fireworks were obscured by winter smoke and harsh weather, the moment they stood together under the snow to watch the brilliant lights in the sky was an unforgettable experience for him.
Speaking about the most impressive fireworks display, Minh Anh mentioned the Nagaoka Festival – one of the three largest fireworks festivals in Japan. In particular, the 2-kilometer-long "Phoenix Fireworks" display, with its message of rebirth and hope, left a strong emotional impact on him, making its grandeur and significance unforgettable.
Photographer Minh Anh's journey of photographing fireworks is a process of capturing unique moments and telling stories through light. For him, fireworks are not just beautiful displays, but also a way to express creativity and emotion. Thanks to his dedication and meticulous preparation on each trip, he has "captured" and preserved these artistic works of fireworks.
Admire these breathtaking moments in the sky captured by photographer Minh Anh:
Japan, with its captivating seasonal beauty and unique culture, has become the catalyst that led photographer Minh Anh on a fresh and innovative creative journey.
For him, fireworks are not just beautiful displays, but also a way to express creativity and emotion.
Fireworks are not only a form of entertainment but are also considered a cultural symbol, representing the harmonious connection between humans and nature.
