Photo Tips:
The photographer should stand 2 meters in front of the model and take the shot with the flash on, being mindful of reflections on the sign.

Pose: The model stands next to the sign, with hands in an embracing motion, looking directly at the camera.

Check-in Strategy:
Regarding reservations: There is no need to make a reservation for the Drum Tower. Try to avoid holidays when it's extremely crowded, and you may have to wait in line for photos.

Photography Time: Around 8:00 PM on July 22nd.

Photography Equipment: Canon R6.

Gulou - Night view of the drum tower and Dongdajie street sign

Photo by Gulou Red Wall

Gulou Red Wall

Photography Tips

The photographer should stand 2 meters in front of the model and use the flash to avoid reflections on the sign.

Pose: The model stands next to the sign, making a hugging motion with their hands and looking at the camera.

Check-in Guide:

Reservation: You do not need to make a reservation for the Drum Tower; try to avoid holidays as it gets very crowded and you may have to wait in line for photos.

Shooting Time: Around 8:00 PM on July 22nd.

Equipment: Canon R6.

Drum Tower - Night view of the signboard on Gulou East Street

Photo by Beijing Central Axis - Drum Tower

Beijing Central Axis - Drum Tower

The photographer is positioned in front of the model, shooting at eye level with a centered composition. The model stands against a red wall, placed at the center of the frame. The shot includes the red wall and the grey eaves above, highlighting the atmosphere of the setting. The model holds a sugar-coated hawthorn stick near their cheek, a natural gesture that enhances the sense of interaction. Styling suggestion: It is recommended to wear black-colored clothing.

Beijing Drum Tower - Red Wall Night View

1. Perspective: The photographer uses a level angle to capture the complete posture of the person leaning against the wall, as well as environmental details such as the red wall and street features.

2. Composition technique: By employing a central composition method, the subject is placed at the center of the frame, with the red wall and street railings creating a simple background that highlights the main figure. Additionally, the subject's body movements serve as visual focal points to guide the viewer's attention within the image.

3. Lens usage: A mid to long focal length lens is used to compress the spatial distance, delicately depicting the texture of the subject's clothing and hair details, while retaining environmental information from the background streets. This balances the representation of the subject and the scene within the frame.

Additional tips: The golden hour is one hour before sunset, which is ideal for shooting the drum tower against the backlight and capturing sunsets, which are both very beautiful. Avoid harsh midday overhead light, as the resulting shadows can be too rigid and difficult to produce good images.

Drum Tower - Sidewalk Side Shot of the Red Wall

Model stands close to the road sign, with the photographer positioned directly in front of the model, 4-5 meters away, using the Gulou road sign and night scenery as the background for a frontal shot.
①Photography equipment: Fuji xt5, 16-50mm lens;
②Photo pose: Model leans shoulder on the road sign, hands naturally placed in front, slightly raise head;
③Travel suggestion: Free of charge, recommended to shoot after 19:00.

Gulou - Night View of Gulou West Street Sign

The model holds a sugar gourd aloft with one hand and supports a road sign with the other, naturally smiling towards the camera; or stands sideways with the sugar gourd, looking at the photographer with a tilt of the head, showing a playful vibe.

1. Photography Equipment: Sony ZV-E10, Tamron 18-300 lens

2. Pose Suggestions: The model raises a sugar gourd high with one hand and naturally smiles towards the camera; or stands sideways with the sugar gourd, looking at the photographer with a tilt of the head, showcasing a playful charm.

3. Visiting Tips: The location is free and open to the public. It is recommended to schedule the photoshoot between 8:00-10:00 AM for soft sunlight, or between 16:00-19:00 PM to capture the warm sunset and experience the unique atmosphere as the city lights come on. There are also many delicious food options in the surrounding area, so you can enjoy a feast after taking photos.

Under the Drum Tower - West Street sign

The model sits slightly sideways on a stone bench, with the photographer standing on the right side of the model, using a standard lens, shooting from a flat perspective angle, with the white lines on the road guiding the gaze to focus on the model.

Travel Tips: It is recommended to go early, as there are fewer people and it's easier to take good pictures.

Gulou - roadside stone benches

The model stands on the zebra crossing opposite the Drum Tower, with the photographer positioned directly in front of the model. The distance from the model is 4-5 meters, using the Drum Tower's night scenery as the backdrop for a frontal shot. 

Photography equipment: Fujifilm xt5, 16-50mm lens.

Posing: Capture the model walking boldly forward.

Travel advice: Free of charge, recommended to shoot after 19:00.

Beijing Drum Tower - Diagonal shot of the Drum Tower at night.