A big deal: Photographer MPK hands over his artwork Khat Vong (Aspiration) to Honorary Consul General of Finland Phung Anh Tuan. — VNS Photo Van Bay

HCM CITY  (VNS)— Just one day after his exhibition opened, photographer MPK, a Da Lat native, had sold 24 of 30 photos in HCM City as of the end of Thursday.

Nguyen Van Phuoc, who uses the acronym MPK, standing for Michel – Phuoc – Khung, organised the exhibition with 30 artworks to mark his 30 years of work.

Though the photographer has had 32 solo exhibitions and numerous joint exhibitions, he has never wanted to sell his works, as they feel as if they are his daughters, he says.

"I also never used my works for any photo contests for fame."

After the opening ceremony on Wednesday, his first artwork Khat Vong (Aspiration), created in 1984, was bought by three exhibition visitors.

The Honorary Consul General of Finland Phung Anh Tuan, bought one of MPK's first photos for US$500, though the starting price was US$200.

MPK bought his first camera in 1984, when he was 27 years old. He began to study photography and explore the beauty of nature.

"Initially, I chose to be a photographer to earn a living. A year later, I recognised that photography is not only a job for me to earn money, but is also the best way for me to express my ideas and emotions. Since then, I have chosen photography instead of drawing and writing," he said.

Phuoc selected the 30 of the best photos from thousands that he had taken over the years.

The exhibition 30/30 can be seen at Chieu – Cafe Sach at 214/19/37 Nguyen Van Nguyen, District 1, HCM City until tomorrow. — VNS