3 Tips for Stunning Photography at My Son Sanctuary – Capture the Ancient Magic

Paul Lee

My Son Sanctuary is a fantastic option for those who love history, culture, and capturing stunning travel photos. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Central Vietnam features ancient temples from the Champa Kingdom set against breathtaking mountainous backdrops. It’s truly a top destination for photography at My Son Sanctuary.

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    Tourists exploring the historic My Son Sanctuary in Vietnam.
    Tourists exploring the historic My Son Sanctuary in Vietnam.

    At VIET DOVE Travel, I have taken many photos at My Son, and I am excited to provide you with 3 Tips for Stunning Photography at My Son’s Ancient Ruins. Let’s get on with helping your photos shine!

    Why My Son’s Photos Are So Special

    Photos taken at My Son Sanctuary provide insight into the carvings, beliefs, and culture of the ancient Champa Kingdom. As travel writer Paul Lee once said:
    “Imagine stepping into a valley of gods, with towering mountains encircling you, an ancient civilization breathing life before your very eyes. This is your moment to inject soul into your photographs…”

    Vietnamese dancers in traditional ao dai at My Son Sanctuary.
    Vietnamese dancers in traditional ao dai at My Son Sanctuary.

    The first time I pointed my camera at the temples, I felt like I was recording a slice of history. Want to create those hauntingly beautiful images too? A fun way to visit and photograph this place is by booking a Popular My Son Sanctuary Morning Tour from Hoi An.

    Top Tips for Photography at My Son Sanctuary

    Visit My Son at Sunrise
    The best opportunity to take stunning sunrise photos of My Son is early morning. The soft light touches the ancient temples – most of which face east to greet the sun. Cham people believe this sunrise light symbolizes spiritual growth in their culture.
    It also feels cooler and more energizing in the morning, perfect for both photography and comfort.
    One time, I watched the sunrise reveal the ruins – and it felt like the temples were telling me a story. A My Son sunrise private tour from Hoi An is the best way to witness and photograph this magical moment.

    Champa Towers and Cham Dance Team in the Mystical Sunrise Light.
    Champa Towers and Cham Dance Team in the Mystical Sunrise Light.

    Bring a Wide-Angled Lens or Use Your Phone
    To capture the temples with the full backdrop of the mountains and forest, use a wide-angle lens or enable the wide-angle mode on your phone. This will help frame the entire landscape, from stone towers to the lush surroundings – a signature look for photography at My Son Sanctuary.
    Want more? Check out our Signature My Son Sanctuary & Thanh Ha Pottery Village Private Tour from Hoi An & Da Nang. You'll experience great photo moments in both destinations.

    Vietnamese dancers in traditional ao dai at My Son Sanctuary.
     Tourist taking a photo in front of My Son Sanctuary.

    Capture the Cultural Performances

    The Cham dances (such as the Water-Carrying Dance, Apsara, and Shiva) are colorful, emotional, and incredibly photogenic. These performances happen at scheduled times at the site’s stage area.
    I love capturing the expressions of dancers and the elegance of their traditional clothing – a cultural treasure of Cham heritage. A Morning My Son group tour from Hoi An often includes these shows, so you can easily capture them without extra planning.

    Traditional dance show with a pyramid formation at My Son Sanctuary
    Traditional dance show with a pyramid formation at My Son Sanctuary

    Some Photo Inspiration from My Son

    Would you like to see what’s possible? From glowing sunrise shots and temple silhouettes to dancer portraits and forest-framed angles – photography at My Son Sanctuary offers it all.

    Scenic view of My Son Sanctuary under a clear blue sky.
    Scenic view of My Son Sanctuary under a clear blue sky.

    Let’s Capture the Magic of My Son!

    My Son Sanctuary is a dream destination for photographers, combining ancient Cham architecture with mystical landscapes. With these 3 expert tips for stunning photography at My Son, you’re ready for a visual adventure!
    At VIET DOVE Travel, we’ve seen firsthand how these techniques help travelers capture their best moments. Let us help you plan your trip.

    Scenic view of My Son Sanctuary under a clear blue sky.
    Scenic view of My Son Sanctuary under a clear blue sky.

    📸 Book a Popular My Son Morning Tour from Hoi An
    🌅 Or enjoy a Private My Son Sunrise Tour from Da Nang
    🏺 Want more variety? Try our Signature My Son Sanctuary & Thanh Ha Pottery Village Tour from Hoi An & Da Nang

    Additionally, you can refer to My Son Through the Seasons: Best Times to Visit My Son to further expand your knowledge. 

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