Island life through a photographer’s eyes
I’m Eduard Stelmakh, a professional photographer living and working on Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam. My connection with the island comes through everyday life and photographing families, couples and travellers here.
This is a personal account of the place I call home and how that local experience shapes the way I plan a photoshoot.
From Sleepy Paradise to Rising Star: A Front Row Seat to Change
When I first set foot on Phu Quoc, it felt like stepping back in time.
No high-rises. No shopping malls. Just endless beaches, dusty roads, and the steady hum of diesel generators lighting up the few tiny fishing villages after dark.
Getting across the island? That meant bouncing along a pothole-studded dirt track, praying your scooter tires held out.
Fast forward to today: sleek highways slice through lush jungle, an international airport hums with visitors, and resorts sparkle along the coastline like seashells. Phu Quoc isn’t just growing, it’s booming. With projects like Sunset Town and Grand World, it’s clear the island is aiming to be not just Vietnam’s gem, but a global destination.
My Favorite Corners of the Island (Spoiler: It’s Hard to Pick Just One)
Living here, I’ve fallen head over heels for different pockets of the island, each with its own vibe:
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Duong Dong: The beating heart. Think night markets, tangled fishing ports, and sunsets that will absolutely wreck your Instagram storage.
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An Thoi: Once a sleepy port, now a booming hub thanks to the gorgeous Sunset Town and cable car rides over a literal sea of emerald.
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Ong Lang: My personal "getaway within a getaway" quieter beaches, boutique resorts, and yoga classes that might just convince you you’re flexible enough for island life.
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Bai Truong (Long Beach): The new playground for luxury hotels, fancy rooftop bars, and stunning oceanfront cafes where laptops and coconuts coexist.
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And if you ever find yourself at the Hon Thom cable car station. Take the ride! You’ll glide over a jaw-dropping palette of blues, greens, and island specks that will make you forget every stress you ever had.
What living here changes for my photography clients
A location is more than its name on a map. The coast, the route from your hotel and the light all affect how a session feels. With children, a comfortable pace can matter more than adding another famous landmark.
You can see how this works in a family session at InterContinental and a route combining Khem Beach with Sunset Town.
For an overview of my work and services, visit photography on Phu Quoc.
Whether you’re here for travel tips, business ideas, or just a little island inspiration - welcome.
Let's make some waves.
Your photographer on Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam.
eduard stelmakh photography