Photo by Beijing Zhengyangmen City Tower - Group photo with the city tower architecture and trees

Beijing Zhengyangmen City Tower - Group photo with the city tower architecture and trees

The photographer stands at a lower position on the front steps of the Taihe Palace, shooting the model from an eye-level angle. Using a contrast composition, the model’s black clothing contrasts with the yellow roof and grayish-white steps of the Taihe Palace, highlighting the subject. A medium to telephoto lens is used to compress the space, making the model, steps, and palace appear closely together, while also blurring parts of the background. Travel Tips: ① Opening Hours: Closes at 4:30 PM during the off-season. ② Entry Time: Buying a ticket for the morning allows you to arrive around 10 AM.

The Front Steps of the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City

Using a centered composition, the model is positioned in the middle of the frame, with the lines of the red walls and the eaves of the Forbidden City forming natural leading lines that enhance the sense of depth. The photographer shoots from a level angle to maintain stability and clarity of the subject, while incorporating elements of the red walls and Forbidden City architecture in the background to create a strong sense of traditional culture. It is recommended to use a standard focal length or a 2x lens on a smartphone to highlight the color contrast between the subject and the background, enhancing the visual impact. The model’s arms are crossed naturally, improving the overall harmony and storytelling of the image. Additional suggestions: The light between 3 PM and 5 PM is softer, making the red walls more vibrant and the light and shadow effects better, which is ideal for shooting various styles of photos.

The Palace Museum - The Root of the Red Wall of the Forbidden City

The photographer stands close to the archway of Zhengyang Gate and shoots upwards with a medium focal length lens, using a symmetrical composition. The white eaves decorations are symmetrically distributed along the central axis, enhancing the stability of the image. Travel Tip: If you're also interested in historical architecture, take advantage of the current trial opening, make a reservation, and visit as soon as possible. It's really worth it!

Zhengyang Gate - Archway Entrance

The model stands in front of the building, and the photographer positions themselves one to two arm's lengths away. You can try using a 2x/medium-telephoto lens. Shooting equipment: Fuji XE4 with an 18-50mm, f2.8 lens. 1. Shooting time: Around 3 PM, with great lighting. Outfit: Simple and clean, black, white, or gray are versatile choices. 2. Poses: Looking at the camera or not is fine, but posing with a side profile adds more cinematic feel.

The Hall of Preserving Harmony side view in the Forbidden City.

1. Shooting Angle: Position yourself at the center of the second or third floor of the Arrow Tower to capture the Dashila Street scene from above, keeping the camera level and centered on the street’s central axis. 2. Composition: Use a symmetrical composition with the street’s central axis as the leading line to enhance the sense of depth and visual guidance. 3. Lens Focal Length: It’s recommended to use a 24mm-35mm focal length (1x lens on a phone), with a moderate wide-angle to cover the street and architectural details without over-compressing the background. 4. Framing: Include the archway, the street, buildings, and the distant city skyline. Also, pay attention to capturing the foreground crowd and the tram to add liveliness and depth to the image. 1. Travel Tips: Advance booking is required for visiting the Zhengyang Gate Arrow Tower. 2. Additional Tips: ① The Zhengyang Gate Arrow Tower is an ancient structure with limited capacity on the ramps and stairs. Please take safety precautions during your visit. ② Volunteer guided tours are available at 11:30 AM, located at No. 2 Qianmen Street, Dongcheng District.

Zhengyangmen Arrow Tower - A Corner of the City Tower

The model is sitting on the steps, and the photographer is standing about 5 meters away, behind a red light, with half of the red light as the foreground. If you have a long telephoto lens, you can stand even further back, making the light smaller and the composition more appealing. Admission: Off-season 10 RMB, high season 15 RMB (not a combo ticket). No separate ticket is needed for the斋宫 (Zhaigong). Shooting Time: Around 14:00. Shooting Equipment: Fuji XT30II + 18-55mm lens.

Temple of Heaven - Platform of Stone Steps at the Fasting Palace

The photographer stands at a close distance in front of the building and takes a shot looking up, which highlights the grandeur and majesty of the architecture. The ancient building, centered in the frame, can become the absolute visual focal point. 1. Travel Tips: Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00-17:00, closed on Mondays. 2. Additional Tips: - Free guided tours are available at 9:30, 11:30, 13:30, and 15:30. - ID is required to enter the site. - Reserve your visit up to 7 days in advance through the official WeChat account of the Beijing Central Axis Heritage Protection Center.

Qianmen Street - Rear view of Zhengyangmen Arrow Tower

Photo by Beijing Zhongshan Park - Bei Cha Wu

Beijing Zhongshan Park - Bei Cha Wu

The model stands in front of the building, and the photographer takes the shot from one arm's length away. You can use a 2x or medium-telephoto lens to better blend the person with the surroundings. Equipment settings: Fujifilm XT30 II, lens 18-55mm. Posing instructions: 1. Pretend to brush your hair, looking at the camera. 2. Look down at the ground.

Lama Temple - Ancient Architecture