The composition uses a frame-within-a-frame technique, with a wood-carved screen serving as the foreground frame to highlight the internal corridor space. The photographer shoots at eye level, standing parallel to the screen to ensure the image remains vertical and undistorted. The framing includes the complete screen, the tables and hanging paintings in the middle, and the arrangements in the back, enhancing the sense of depth.

The Forbidden City - Wooden screens and paintings of indoor tables and chairs.

Photo by The Forbidden City - Shenwu Gate and China Zun in the same frame.

The Forbidden City - Shenwu Gate and China Zun in the same frame.

The photographer should use an upward angle and a centered composition to place the coiled dragon carving at the center of the frame, highlighting the main subject. The shot should include the entire caisson ceiling, capturing the central coiled dragon, the circular shape, and the outer octagonal decorations to ensure the structural integrity. Additional suggestions: It is recommended to avoid holidays and choose a weekday for the visit.

The Palace Museum - Golden Coiled Dragon Caisson Ceiling

The photographer uses a low-angle shot, shooting upwards from a low position. By employing foreground composition, the yellow ginkgo leaves in the foreground are brought into the frame and blurred, while the mid and background clearly show the eaves, red pillars, and intricate paintings of the ancient architecture, enhancing the depth of the image. Additional tip: It's best to take photos on a sunny day for the best results.

The Forbidden City Museum - Xihua Gate Corner Tower

Photo by The Palace Museum - Qianqian Hall exhibition featuring Hetian jade Go sets and jade artifacts.

The Palace Museum - Qianqian Hall exhibition featuring Hetian jade Go sets and jade artifacts.

Photo by The Palace Museum - Imperial Robes of the Qing Dynasty Emperors

The Palace Museum - Imperial Robes of the Qing Dynasty Emperors

Use a centered composition, placing the plaque in the middle of the frame to ensure the red border and blue text area are fully symmetrical. The photographer should face the plaque directly, shooting at a level angle to keep the image straight. Frame the shot to include some of the surrounding green and gold architectural decorations, enhancing the environmental atmosphere. It is recommended to use a standard lens and adjust the exposure to ensure the gold text is clear and not reflective. Travel Tips: ① Admission Price: Off-season 40 RMB, Peak season 60 RMB; ② Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays.

The Palace Museum - Cining Gate

The photographer stands directly below the plaque of the Jingren Palace, using an upward shooting angle. The rule of thirds is applied, with the "Jingren Palace" plaque positioned at the right one-third of the frame. The left side includes the golden tiles and red eaves, creating a diagonal line. The composition captures the full view of the plaque, the eave structure, and part of the painted background, highlighting the details of the ancient architecture. Shooting Time: It is recommended to shoot during clear weather with good daylight.

The Forbidden City - Jǐng Rén Palace plaque and eaves.

Photo by Treasure Gallery of the Forbidden City - Golden Gourd-shaped Bronze Lamp Exhibition

Treasure Gallery of the Forbidden City - Golden Gourd-shaped Bronze Lamp Exhibition

The photographer stands below the eaves, using an upward angle and symmetrical composition to balance the two eaves at the center of the frame, emphasizing the solemnity of the architecture. The shot focuses on the details of the eaves (tiles, ridge beasts, and paintings), while a plain sky serves as the background to avoid clutter and highlight the intricate textures of the eaves. Travel Tips: ① Admission Fee: 60 RMB per person; ② Opening Hours: Opens at 8:30 AM, last entry at 4:00 PM, entry to the Treasure House and Clock Museum stops at 4:10 PM, closes at 5:00 PM.

The Forbidden City - The Eaves of the Forbidden City in the Snow