Journalist Gian Thanh Son will release a photo book featuring thebeauty of Vietnamese islands and seas that he has photographed duringthe last 20 years.

The photo book titled Vietnam's Islands andCoastline Seen from Above is expected to be published in September. Thebook will be compiled as a pictorial chronicle of the islands and seasof Vietnam.

"I have decided to print the book on this occasionbecause I want to contribute to the affirmation of Vietnam's sovereigntyover its sea and islands," stated Son of the Ho Chi Minh City's Policenewspaper. "I also wish to publicise the photos depicting the naturalbeauty of the islands and seas of Vietnam, which I have had anopportunity to fly over."

"I hope the beauty of the islands andseas that I have captured through my lens will inspire and strengthenpatriotism among the Vietnamese."

The photo book will also be amilestone marking the 20th year Son has been taking aerial pictures. Sonwill consult with experts to provide an introduction to each photo.

Theidea of taking aerial pictures flashed across his mind while he was on afield trip in the Con Dao Island in 2003. Viewing through the plane'swindows, he was amazed by the natural beauty of the country below.

Sincethen he has taken good use of flying trips to capture the country fromabove. In addition, Son is allowed to appear for flight training by 917Aviation Regiment, where he can take pictures of every corner of thecountry.

"Vietnam has a long coastline with thousands ofislands, which cannot be captured comprehensively in a few years," Sonnoted, adding: "I hope more colleagues have the same purpose like me intaking photos of the islands and seas of Vietnam."

Born in 1957,the photo journalist has launched several publications includingPolitician Portraits, Integration Milestone and Nick Ut - A SimpleLegend.

He has also set the national record of being the photographer who has taken the highest number of aerial landscape photos.-VNA