Photographers can zoom out to capture the full panorama of the ancient temple, showcasing its overall appearance; or they can get up close to photograph the architectural details. Utilizing the soft light of the evening can add depth and atmosphere to the image.

Whether using a smartphone or a camera, the equipment is suitable for photography. Smartphones can be switched to professional mode to manually adjust parameters; cameras can opt for a medium to long focal length with an aperture setting between f/5.6 and f/8 for better results.

Xi’an Xiangji Temple – “Endless Virtue” Sign

The photographer can use a 50mm focal length and lift the lens to shoot, avoiding the clutter around.

1. Dressing suggestions: Choose simple and elegant styles for clothing, avoiding overly revealing outfits.

2. Other tips:
① Remember to turn off the flash when taking photos to respect the religious atmosphere inside the temple;
② Be mindful of fire safety when offering incense and follow the temple's guidelines.

Xiangji Temple – Shandao Pagoda

The photographer stands directly in front of the model, who is positioned sideways. The person is centered in the frame to emphasize the interaction between the subject and the background's ancient architectural elements. The photographer uses a flat shooting angle to ensure the stability of the image and a natural proportion of the person. The frame should include the red lattice windows and eaves details of the ancient architectural corridor, while incorporating leaves as the foreground to create a sense of depth and a classical atmosphere.

Xi’an Xiangji Temple – Red Window Frame

As shown in the figure, the photographer is 2 meters away from the model, shooting horizontally. Pay attention to avoid pedestrians to keep the frame clean. Be careful not to distort! It is recommended to use a camera with a zoom lens of 24-70 for shooting. The focal length should be around 30, and the aperture should be around 4. The best time for shooting is around 3 PM.

Xi’an Xiangji Temple – Cliff-Carved Buddha

The photographer is in front of the temple, capturing it from a low angle with a slight upward tilt to include the entire temple. Use a standard lens and center composition, placing the temple's main body in the middle of the frame to highlight the architectural symmetry. 

Travel tips: Opening hours are from 08:00 to 17:00.

Xiangji Temple – Entrance

Photographers can frame their shots from 3 to 5 meters away from the main structure of the building, with a smaller aperture to highlight the outline and texture of the temple architecture.

It is recommended to use a camera with a wide-angle lens of 16-35mm focal length, and set the aperture between f/8 and f/11. This will allow for a complete and clear recording of the grand scene of the temple.

Xi’an Xiangji Temple – Heavenly King Hall

As shown in the figure, the model and the photographer are about 1 meter apart, with the model standing on the stairs and the photographer shooting from a low angle. When shooting, be mindful to avoid pedestrians to keep the frame clean, and avoid distortion.

It is recommended to use a camera with a zoom lens of 24-70mm, set at a focal length of 30mm and an aperture of around f/4. The best time for shooting is around 2 PM.

Water Eco-Cycle Park – Upward Glass Walkway

Photographers can use an 85mm focal length, and the camera can be elevated for shooting.
Travel tips: The opening hours are from Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Other experiences: Maintain silence, avoid loud noise and boisterous behavior to not disrupt the solemn atmosphere within the temple and the visiting experience of other tourists.

Xi’an Xiangji Temple – Entrance

As shown in the picture, the photographer is 1 meter away from the model, shooting with an upward angle. Pay attention to avoid pedestrians and keep the frame clean. Be careful not to distort the image.

It is recommended to use a camera with a zoom lens of 24-70 for shooting. Set the focal length to 25 and the aperture to about 4. The best time for shooting is around 3 PM.

Xi’an Xiangji Temple – Red Window

The model stands in the center of the courtyard, while the photographer stands beside the tree, maintaining a distance of 1-3 meters for shooting. The rule of thirds is used for composition, placing the model on the right third line of the frame, leaving the temple architecture and tree trunk on the left. It is recommended to use a 50mm focal length on the camera, which is suitable for highlighting the spatial sense between the subject and the background.

1. Equipment settings: Mobile phone shooting with aperture f/2.8 - f/5.6 can take into account both the character and the ancient temple scenery, producing a vintage photo full of layers and charm.

2. Travel strategy: The best time for shooting is in the early morning or late evening when the light is soft, which can better create an antique atmosphere.

Xi’an Xiangji Temple – Courtyard