The Infinite (Endless) Sea – A Photographer’s Guide

This article is part of the Photography Hotspots Unveiled series, regularly shared on my personal page and the “Passionate Photography Journey” group. The goal is to share experiences and knowledge accumulated through various photography expeditions.

Let’s dive in!

Difficulty Level: 6/10
Scenic Beauty: 7/10
Best Shooting Time: Sunrise / Limited Angles (Requires Setup)

1. About the Infinite Sea

The term Infinite Sea was coined around 2020 when photographers unintentionally started a viral trend, making it a highly sought-after check-in location. Geographically, it is located in Thuy Hai – Quang Lang – Thai Binh, approximately a 3-hour drive from Hanoi. The prime shooting time is at sunrise, but getting to the exact location requires a long walk from the shore, taking about 4-5 hours in total. This makes it one of the more physically demanding spots to shoot.

Additionally, due to the muddy terrain, bringing a chair is essential if you plan to sit. Carrying a bulky backpack can also be challenging. This guide aims to provide useful insights for a smoother photography experience.

2. Essential Gear for Infinite Sea Photography

• Footwear: Waterproof shoes or sandals are practically useless here! The sticky Quang Lang mud will grip them tight. Instead, opt for high-knee socks (like soccer socks) to protect against mosquitoes and midges while ensuring a firm grip on the slippery mud.
• Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and shorts work best. Ensure your socks cover most of your legs to prevent insect bites. Applying medicated balm like Tiger Balm to exposed skin areas can provide additional protection. Also, bring a wide-brimmed hat—the sun rises quickly, and the journey back can be scorching.
• Water Supply: Carry a small water bottle, as there are no vendors on site.
• Portable Chair: Sitting will be necessary after hours of walking and waiting for sunrise.
• Equipment Transportation: While tracked vehicles now take visitors to the site, those preferring the monastic discipline of walking can use a foam box or plastic tub to store camera gear. Fishermen often use this technique to prevent water damage, especially when the tide rises unexpectedly.

3. Recommended Photography Gear

• Tripod: Not essential here. Lightweight tripods are too weak for the sinking sand, while heavy ones are cumbersome. Only bring one if it’s crucial for your composition. Remember to clean it thoroughly afterward to prevent salt buildup.
• Lenses: Mid-range zoom and telephoto lenses work best. Wide-angle lenses are useful for special effects but work best with smaller shooting groups. Avoid frequent lens changes to protect against environmental damage.
• Low-Angle Shots: The best compositions are at low angles. Be prepared to get close to the water’s surface or use a flip screen to achieve perfect reflections without awkward horizon placements.
• Filters: A CPL (Circular Polarizer) filter is invaluable here to create stunning mirror-like reflections.

4. Shooting Tips

• Silhouette Photography: The key technique here is silhouette shots—backlit subjects turning into dark figures against the bright sky. Set your camera to meter the sky, ensuring a fast shutter speed to avoid motion blur.
• Capturing the Sunrise: Shoot clear, detailed portraits once the sun is fully visible.
• Creative Concepts: The moment the sun peeks over the horizon is perfect for “holding” or “scooping” the sun in the composition.
• Rim Lighting: Position the sun at a 45-degree angle behind your subject to achieve stunning rim lighting.
• Reflectors: Use a reflector for better-lit portrait shots.
• Drone Photography: Once the sun is higher, long shadows are cast, making it the golden hour for drone shots.
• Storytelling Details: Close-up shots add depth and variety to the photo series.
• Bonus Tip: On your way back, capture local oyster harvesters at work for an authentic documentary-style series.

5. Best Time to Visit Quang Lang

To capture the best sunrise at the Infinite Sea, plan your visit based on:

• Weather Conditions: Look for calm wind, moderate cloud cover (60-80%), and clear upper layers (0% mid-high clouds)—this almost guarantees a stunning sky.
• Tidal Patterns: Check the low tide schedule (3-7 AM) to avoid getting stranded. The tide charts for Hon Dau (Hon Dấu) provide accurate tracking, usually mid-month in the lunar calendar.
• Water Levels: A water depth of 0.2 meters ensures a perfectly smooth mirror effect. Windy conditions and higher tides disrupt reflections.
• Pre-Storm Phenomenon: Right before a storm or weather shift, the sky can be spectacular.
• Best Season: The ideal months are May to August (possibly September). After that, the winter season makes it almost impossible to access. The autumn months in northern Vietnam are often unpredictable and gloomy.

6. Safety Precautions

• Tidal Dangers: Returning too late can be extremely dangerous. You’re kilometers out at sea—losing the race against the tide is a life-threatening mistake. Always check the tide schedule or ask local fishermen for guidance.
• Slippery Terrain: The ground is unforgivingly slick—tread carefully.
• Sharp Shells & Rocks: Clams and barnacles can cause deep cuts—watch your step.
• Navigational Awareness: Always head west to return safely—this is the East Sea (South China Sea); going west guarantees you reach the shore.
• Physical Readiness: Expect several kilometers of walking through thick mud—come prepared with stamina!

By following these tips and precautions, your Infinite Sea photography trip will be a safer, more enjoyable, and creatively rewarding experience. Happy shooting!