Photo by The close-up shot of the plaque at Yi Kun Palace in the Forbidden City.

The close-up shot of the plaque at Yi Kun Palace in the Forbidden City.

It is recommended to use an upward shooting angle, aiming the lens at the roof and plaques of the Forbidden City, with the eaves decorations and plaques as the main subjects. This will enhance the detail and historical texture of the image. A medium to long focal length lens is recommended to highlight the intricate craftsmanship of the plaque inscriptions and eave decorations, while cropping out unnecessary surrounding elements. When composing, position the roof slightly above the center of the frame, and include some tree backgrounds around to add layers and highlight the ancient and rustic atmosphere of the Forbidden City.

Travel Guide: Admission is 60 RMB per person, open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:00 PM. Free for minors (reservations required).

"Imperial Palace in Beijing - The plaque of Wanchun Pavilion framed with the eaves"

Using the floral carvings above the door frame to form a natural frame, highlight the red wall background and the model. The model stands on the right side of the image, holding a round fan and posing sideways, exuding an elegant demeanor. The composition includes the eaves in the foreground, the stone railing in the middle ground, and the complete red wall. The blurred bokeh in the foreground enhances the sense of depth.

The Forbidden City - Take a photo with the doorway, stone railings, and red walls.

Photo by The Forbidden City - Taking a Photo with a Rockery

The Forbidden City - Taking a Photo with a Rockery

Place the sign of "Donghua Gate" in the center of the frame to highlight the main subject. The photographer should stand below the building and shoot upward to showcase the roof, brackets, and carved decorations. Include green leaves from the left side in the foreground to add depth, and capture the roof and part of the sky in the background.

Travel Guide:
① Ticket Prices: Ticket prices vary between the off-season and peak season. From April 1 to October 31, the peak season ticket price is 60 RMB. From November 1 to March 31 of the following year, the off-season ticket price is 40 RMB. Tickets for the Treasures Gallery and the Clocks and Watches Gallery must be purchased separately, each at 10 RMB.
② Opening Hours: From April 1 to October 31, the opening hours are 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:10 PM). From November 1 to March 31 of the following year, the opening hours are 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM).

The Forbidden City - Upward Shot of the Donghua Gate Placard

Photo by The Forbidden City - Capture the architecture group and water reflections of the Forbidden City during the sunset.

The Forbidden City - Capture the architecture group and water reflections of the Forbidden City during the sunset.

Use leading lines in your composition, with the stone balustrade on the right (featuring snow dragon motifs and drainage beasts) as the leading line, extending into the distance to the red walls and snow-covered palace roofs, enhancing the sense of depth.
Additional tip: Ideal for shooting on snowy days.

The Palace Museum - Road behind the Right Rear Gate

Photo by The Forbidden City - Capture the main body of the ancient architecture and trees with greenery.

The Forbidden City - Capture the main body of the ancient architecture and trees with greenery.

Photo by The Palace Museum - Taking a Photo with the Red Walls

The Palace Museum - Taking a Photo with the Red Walls

From the perspective of the photographer, they are positioned below the Qianqing Palace, shooting upwards to capture the plaque and eaves, with a vertical focus on the architectural details. The composition technique uses the lines of the eaves to form a natural frame, placing the plaque within it to emphasize the focal point.

1. Travel Tips:
① Ticket Price: 60 RMB per person, free for minors, and reservations are required.
② Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, with entry closing at 4:00 PM.

2. Additional Tips: During holidays, tickets are hard to come by. You need to book seven days in advance through the official WeChat account of the Palace Museum, which opens for ticket sales at 8:00 PM.

The Forbidden City - The plaque of Qianqing Palace and its eaves.