Photo by West Lake's Quyuan Wind-Lotus - Reflections of the pavilion and plants in the lake.

West Lake's Quyuan Wind-Lotus - Reflections of the pavilion and plants in the lake.

Photo by West Lake's Qu Yuan Wind Lotus - Architectural Window View and Lotus Flowers

West Lake's Qu Yuan Wind Lotus - Architectural Window View and Lotus Flowers

Photo by West Lake's Xizi Inn and the Fragrant Lotus of the Courtyard Wind Lotus Pond

West Lake's Xizi Inn and the Fragrant Lotus of the Courtyard Wind Lotus Pond

Photo by Quyuan Wind Lotus - Lotus Encounter Garden Restaurant Fish Tank

Quyuan Wind Lotus - Lotus Encounter Garden Restaurant Fish Tank

Photo by Xizi Inn, Courtyard with Wind and Lotus - Lotus Pond in Front of Traditional Chinese Architecture

Xizi Inn, Courtyard with Wind and Lotus - Lotus Pond in Front of Traditional Chinese Architecture

Photo by West Lake's Quyuan Wind-Lotus - Lotus Pond and Stone Bridge

West Lake's Quyuan Wind-Lotus - Lotus Pond and Stone Bridge

Photo by Xizi Inn's Qu Yuan Wind Lotus - Stone Path by the Lotus Pond

Xizi Inn's Qu Yuan Wind Lotus - Stone Path by the Lotus Pond

Put your phone in self-timer mode and place it on the ground. Stand under the maple tree so that the background is entirely red maple leaves, and then take the photo.

Qu Yuan Feng He - Under the Multicolored Maple Trees

The composition is centered, with the subject sitting on a bench in the middle of the frame, facing away from the camera and looking toward the lake. The photographer captures the scene from a slightly lower position in front of the bench, using a wide-angle or 1x phone lens. The trees on both sides are included as a foreground frame, while the mid-ground features the bench and the subject. The background incorporates the lake and distant trees, adding depth to the image. Travel tip: Admission is free.

Hangzhou West Lake, Quyuan Wind in the Lotus - Bench

The photographer uses an eye-level angle, placing the wooden boat at the lower right of the frame to make it the focal point. The reflection on the water adds symmetry and depth to the composition, while the lush tree branches create a serene atmosphere. The soft light and shadows highlight the tranquility and peacefulness of the natural surroundings. Recommended shooting time: Early morning, when the light is soft.

West Lake's Courtyard of Breeze and Lotus - Wooden Boats on the Lake