The photographer uses a bird's-eye view angle, with the model standing in front of a red lattice window, positioned at the center of the frame. The composition highlights the subject by placing her centrally, with the complete red palace walls and red-framed windows in the background, preserving the details of traditional architecture. The model holds a round fan, her hands crossed in front of her, exuding an elegant and natural pose.

The Forbidden City in Beijing - Take a photo with the red palace walls and doors and windows.

Using the rule of thirds, the model is positioned at the right one-third of the frame, standing naturally with their side facing left. The pose is relaxed and not stiff. The shot is taken at eye level, including the red wall, the snow-covered roof, and the snowy ground. The composition retains the layers of the roof and the integrity of the red wall.

The Forbidden City - Take a photo with the red walls and rooftops.

Place the red pillar at the center of the frame, using symmetrical composition to highlight its solemnity. You can also try the rule of thirds, distributing the red pillar, sky, and surrounding buildings for a more dynamic composition. 1. Shooting Time: Late afternoon, when the sunlight slants in, creating soft light that wraps the red pillar in a golden glow. The color saturation of the red pillar is at its peak, contrasting beautifully with the blue sky, making for a visually striking photo. 2. Shooting Position: Stand at the entrance of the Zhonghe Gate, looking up at the red pillar, and let the sense of history wash over you.

The Forbidden City - Red Pillars of Zhonghe Gate

Photo by The Forbidden City - Green-roofed Buildings and Pine Trees

The Forbidden City - Green-roofed Buildings and Pine Trees

The photographer uses an upward angle, standing below the ancient building, with yellow ginkgo leaves in the foreground, partially blurred to enhance depth. The main subject is the eaves of the ancient building and the “Xihua” plaque, with a small portion of the sky visible in the background. The composition includes details of the eaves, ginkgo branches, and the tiles of the roof below, highlighting the integration of the ancient architecture with the autumn scenery. Travel Tip: It’s best to shoot on a clear day in the daytime for good lighting.

The Palace Museum - Xihua Gate

It is recommended to use a centered composition, placing the red columns of the outer corridor of the Zhonghe Hall in the center of the frame to create a sense of depth. The viewer's gaze will naturally be guided to the distant view of the back of the Taihe Hall, emphasizing the architectural layers and details. Photographers can use a slightly upward angle to enhance the verticality of the columns and the grandeur of the architecture. It is recommended to use a medium telephoto lens or the 3x zoom on a phone to highlight the main subject and avoid a cluttered background. 1. Travel Tips: Opening hours are from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:10 PM). 2. Additional Advice: Try to arrive before 9:00 AM to enter the park early and avoid the crowds during peak hours.

The Forbidden City - The outer corridors of Zhonghe Hall and the backdrop of Taihe Hall in the same frame.

Using an upward shooting angle, the main building’s roof (with red walls and a golden pinnacle) is positioned at the left one-third of the frame, balanced by a pine tree on the right, creating a rule of thirds composition. The background captures a clean blue sky, while the foreground includes artificial rock formations and a pine tree, adding depth and highlighting the integration of the ancient architectural details with the natural landscape. Travel Tips: ① Admission fee: 60 yuan, free for minors (reservation required); ② Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).

The Palace Museum - Architectural Roofs, Rockery, and Pine Trees

Photo by Taking a photo with the red walls and green columns of the Forbidden City.

Taking a photo with the red walls and green columns of the Forbidden City.

Photo by The Forbidden City - Group Photo with Corner Tower, City Walls, and Greenery

The Forbidden City - Group Photo with Corner Tower, City Walls, and Greenery

Photo by The Forbidden City - Ginkgo Trees and Architectural Eaves

The Forbidden City - Ginkgo Trees and Architectural Eaves