The winning image captures the moment a shirtless artisan, with focused gaze, lifts trays of steaming banh hoi - Vietnamese fine rice vermicelli - from a giant steamer.

Beams of sunlight pierce through the roof, slicing through the billowing white steam and lending the scene both a raw authenticity and a dreamlike quality. The neatly stacked, thin, white rice noodles reflect the meticulous craftwork of an ancient tradition.

The photo celebrates the diligence, labor, and heritage of the Vietnamese people, while showcasing the photographer’s mastery in capturing light and shadow, steam and texture, to create a living, breathing visual narrative.

“Banh hoi is a beloved traditional Vietnamese dish found in provinces like Binh Thuan, Vung Tau, Ben Tre, Phu Yen, Nha Trang, and Binh Dinh,” reads the caption from the World Food Photography Awards. “Made from rice flour through a meticulous and intricate process, it is commonly served with scallion oil, roast pork, grilled meats, or pork offal. It is a staple dish during festive events, weddings, and religious ceremonies, embodying the culinary soul of regional Vietnamese culture.”

The 2025 World Food Photography Awards were judged by a global panel of experts led by acclaimed food photographer David Loftus.

An exhibition featuring all 185 shortlisted images will be held at the Home museum in Manchester from June 3 to September 7.

Do An