The photographer stands directly in front of the artifact, at roughly the same level as the phoenix crown. Using a centered composition, the phoenix crown is placed in the middle of the frame to highlight the main subject. A simple background is chosen to avoid distractions and to emphasize the intricate and exquisite details of the phoenix crown. The lines of the hanging ornaments are captured to enhance the grand and luxurious atmosphere. Travel Tip: Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

National Museum of China - Empress Xiaozhuang's Phoenix Crown

The photographer stands in front of the exhibit and shoots from an overhead angle to capture the entire display. Using a standard lens and center composition, the white jade carved flower bowl is placed at the center of the frame to highlight the main subject.

National Museum of China - White Jade Carved Flower Bowl Exhibit

The photographer uses a level shooting angle, placing the scene of human activities in the painting at the center of the frame, capturing details to highlight the vivid details of street life. The framing includes dynamic elements such as carrying, conversing, and pushing carts, along with architectural elements, preserving the original texture of the painting and enhancing the narrative of the image. Travel Tip: Book your visit at least seven days in advance. If you can't secure a reservation, you can try to get a last-minute canceled ticket on the day of your visit. Make sure to enter within your reserved time slot, as entry will not be allowed if you arrive after the designated time.

National Museum of China - Details of the "Prosperous South" Exhibition Piece

Shooting from a slightly higher position, the golden lotus seedpod artifact is placed at the center of the frame, highlighting its complete form. The composition includes the full view of the exhibit and the white pedestal, with a clean background that avoids any distractions. Make sure to capture the entire structure of the lotus leaf and seedpod, adjust the angle to minimize reflections from the display case glass, and ensure that the golden details are clear.

National Museum of China - photographing the golden lotus seedpod cultural relics exhibit.

Center the composition with the cloisonné flower in the middle, and blur the background to avoid distracting from the main subject, creating a clean and simple image. Adjust the exposure appropriately while shooting to ensure that the brightness of the glass base and the flowers is even, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship. Travel Tip: The exhibition runs from June 10 to August 10.

National Museum of China - Pink Glazed Flower

The photographer stands in front of the terracotta horse, shooting from a level angle to capture the horse in its entirety. Using a medium to long focal length lens and the central composition technique, the terracotta horse is placed at the center of the frame, with the background blurred to highlight the texture and details of the horse.

National Museum of China - Northern Dynasties Ceramic Horse

The photographer stands directly in front of the exhibit, with the camera at the same height as the exhibit. Using a central composition, the exhibit is placed in the center of the frame to highlight the subject. A simple background and a white pedestal help focus the viewer's attention on the exhibit. Travel Tips: Admission is free, and you can book a ticket 1-7 days in advance at the National Museum.

National Museum of China - Ancient China Basic Exhibition Displays

Photo by National Museum of China - Ming Dynasty Empress Xiaoduan's Crown with Nine Dragons and Nine Phoenixes

National Museum of China - Ming Dynasty Empress Xiaoduan's Crown with Nine Dragons and Nine Phoenixes

The photographer stands directly in front of the chime bells, shooting at eye level. Using the simple background of the museum display case, the chime bells are highlighted as the main subject, centered in the frame with ample negative space around them, emphasizing their solemnity. Travel Tip: The museum is very crowded on weekends and holidays. It’s recommended to visit outside of peak hours.

National Museum of China - Bells and Chimes

A flat shot, fully showcasing the camel-mounted musician figurine. In terms of composition, the figurine is positioned at the center of the frame, highlighting its details and artistic features.

National Museum of China - Tang Sancai