Life is like a sunrise, a precious and ever-unfolding masterpiece waiting to be embraced. For the September issue, the Photography Department of The Granite Tower (GT) captured their own interpretations of “rise and shine,” from the serenity of untouched landscapes to the bustling energy of city streets.
Dang Tran Minh Son
In the first light of Hanoi, the city awakens as cafes brew their first pots of coffee, aromas mingling with the bustle of street vendors setting up for the day. As the sun rises higher, Hue's Imperial City gleams, bathed in a golden aura, the echoes of history resonating in its vibrant marketplaces and tranquil Perfume River. The day's last rays illuminate Danang's My Khe Beach, the city pulsating with energy, the shoreline glowing with the soft hues of dusk, a blend of tradition and modernity. From dawn in Hanoi, through the luminous day in Hue, to dusk in Danang, Vietnam's cities rise and shine in a dance with light, each unfolding in its unique rhythm, yet united in their bustling vitality. The journey through these cities is a journey through light, illuminating the heart of Vietnam and its resilient spirit, an ever-shining beacon in the tapestry of Southeast Asia.
Jung Haine
Although “rise and shine” is a reference to waking up in the morning and getting ready for the day, I wanted to capture how this sentiment may ring true also during the night, when the sun has already set. There is something both so busy, bustling, and loud, yet also lonely, quiet, and soul-suckingly exhausting about Seoul. People will chatter on during the night, roaring with the energy they lend from alcohol, a musician will play their instrument in the streets of Anguk, and couples will roam with bright LED lights illuminating the streets. A 24-hour goomung (mom-and-pop) shop must rise and shine without end. I tried to compile photographs I have taken that I deemed best reflect this liveliness of the city.
Son Jiho
In the midst of our fast-paced and demanding lives, it is crucial to take a moment to pause, allowing us to observe and wholeheartedly embrace the beauty, joy, and happiness that envelop our surroundings. Within the world's very essence lies an artistic masterpiece, beckoning us to find solace, peace, and inspiration. By stepping back and appreciating the wonders of life, we can discover a sense of restful tranquility and renewed motivation.
