Photo by The Forbidden City - Close-up shot of the stone carving dragon heads on the eaves of the buildings.

The Forbidden City - Close-up shot of the stone carving dragon heads on the eaves of the buildings.

Photo by The Forbidden City - Take a photo with white walls and wooden structures.

The Forbidden City - Take a photo with white walls and wooden structures.

Photo by The Forbidden City - Golden Roofed and Red Pillared Architecture

The Forbidden City - Golden Roofed and Red Pillared Architecture

Photo by The Forbidden City - Taking a photo with the red doors and windows of the architecture.

The Forbidden City - Taking a photo with the red doors and windows of the architecture.

Photo by The Forbidden City - Stone Wells and Balustrades

The Forbidden City - Stone Wells and Balustrades

Photo by Take a photo with a corner of the red-walled architecture in the Forbidden City.

Take a photo with a corner of the red-walled architecture in the Forbidden City.

A bird’s-eye view shot from a slightly higher angle, capturing the entire interior with the focus on the auspicious calligraphy scroll hanging on the wall. The composition is balanced with circular wall hangings and door frames symmetrically placed on either side. The foreground includes a carved round table, while the mid-ground features a long table with various ornaments. The background incorporates white wall decorations and retains the wooden door frames on both sides, fully showcasing the layered interior layout.

The Forbidden City in Beijing - Interior furnishings including wooden long tables, round tables, and round stools.

Photo by The Palace Museum in Beijing - Railings and Roofs in the Same Frame

The Palace Museum in Beijing - Railings and Roofs in the Same Frame

Shooting from a low angle, the photographer stands below the building and looks up, using a centered composition to place the rooftop ornaments and decorations at the center of the frame. This highlights the intricate carvings and symmetry. The background should only include a clear blue sky, keeping the image clean and unobtrusive. A telephoto lens is recommended to capture the detailed patterns and the layers of tiles clearly.

Additional tips: Avoid crowded times and visit during off-peak hours.

The Forbidden City in Beijing - photographing the rooftops, eaves, and ridge creatures.

Photo by The Palace Museum - Close-up of a Flower Branch Model

The Palace Museum - Close-up of a Flower Branch Model