Use a centered composition with the model positioned in the middle of the frame, maintaining a natural perspective with a straight-on shooting angle. Incorporate the white pillars of the stone bridge in the foreground to add depth, and include the water scenery of Shichahai, the trees along the shore, and the distant traditional Chinese architecture in the background to enrich the layers of the image. Shooting time: daytime.

Shichahai - Qianhai Pier

Photo by Shichahai - Take a photo with wooden windows and trees

Shichahai - Take a photo with wooden windows and trees

Use the rule of thirds for composition, placing the sculpture and mailbox in the left one-third of the frame. On the right, include the door of the post office and the sign that reads "Da Qing Postal Mailbox." This balances the main subject with the environment. Shoot from a straight-on angle to ensure that both the subject and background elements are clear.

Shichahai - Sculpture Mailbox and Plaque

The large white characters of Shichahai are located on the right side of the frame, while six colorful square neon frames are symmetrically distributed on the left, balancing the composition. The photographer shoots at eye level to ensure the neon lights are clear against the dark brick wall background. The frame includes all the signs and the English text "Shichahai" below, highlighting the neon colors and details.

Shichahai - Neon Signs Against a Dark Brick Wall Background

The photographer uses an upward angle, shooting from a low position. Employing a framing composition, the green leaves on the sides and below serve as a natural foreground frame, highlighting the main subject, which is the red roof of the ancient building in the center. The framing should include the foreground leaves, the mid-ground red roof, and the gray city wall, with a portion of the sky left in the background to enhance the depth of the image. It is recommended to use a medium to long focal length lens to compress the space, making the foreground and subject more compact and emphasizing the details of the roof.

Shichahai - Capturing the red ancient architectural rooftops through the trees.

Photo by Shichahai - River Cruise and Opposite Bank Buildings

Shichahai - River Cruise and Opposite Bank Buildings

The photographer uses a level shooting angle to ensure that the door frame lines are perfectly horizontal and vertical, using the pavilion door frame as a natural frame to capture the lake view, lotus flowers, and distant green trees, enhancing the depth of the scene. The composition includes the “Prince’s Mansion of Beijing” plaque at the top, mid-ground red flower pots and lotus leaves, the lake surface in the background, and the distant trees, enriching the layers of the image. Travel Tip: It is recommended to shoot during clear weather with good sunlight.

Beijing Xiao Wangfu Shichahai Branch - Lake View Under the Plaque

Photo by Shichahai - Taking a photo with the shop window display

Shichahai - Taking a photo with the shop window display

Photo by Shichahai - Taking a night photo with the lake, buildings, and stone railings.

Shichahai - Taking a night photo with the lake, buildings, and stone railings.

Using a centered composition, the subject is placed in the middle of the frame to highlight the main figure. The photographer shoots from a slightly higher position, capturing the Hutong brick walls, windows, and the extending street in the background. The distant view includes trees and buildings, showcasing the characteristic street scene.

Shichahai - Hutong Street Scene and Architectural Group Photo