Beijing's economic transformation gains wider recognition through lens

The economic transformation and modern urban development in Beijing — the Chinese capital — and its growing connections with the global economy are gaining wider attention through the visual displays of photographers.

The image of "Passing Through the Moon", captured by Chinese photographer Rui Zhong, won a bronze award at the 2026 Prix de la Photographie Paris, showcasing the blending of Beijing's ancient heritage and modern charm. (Photo via China Daily)

Chinese photographer Rui Zhong captured an aircraft crossing a full moon behind Beijing's China Zun skyscraper, and named her work "Passing Through the Moon".

The photo won a Bronze award in the Professional Architecture/Cityscape category at the 2026 Prix de la Photographie Paris (PX3), one of Europe's leading photography competitions.

"Photography is a tool to observe the world, interpret culture and share ideas," she said.

Wang Xinchao, deputy secretary-general of the Photographers Association of Dongcheng District in Beijing, said beyond its striking composition, the image offers a visual perspective on the capital's economic transformation, modern urban development and growing connections with the global economy.

Taken on Oct 10, 2022, the photograph brought together three elements: China Zun's modern architectural silhouette, the timeless presence of the moon and an aircraft tracing its path across the sky. Together, they suggest a relationship between historical continuity, technological progress and the vitality of an international city.

Located in Beijing's Central Business District (CBD), China Zun reflects the capital's transition toward a center for finance, international business and professional services. China Zun, also known as CITIC Tower, rises 528 meters and became a defining feature of the district after its completion in 2018.

The CBD, incorporated into the city's development planning in 1993, is an important hub for business services and international economic exchange. Its scale and location reflect the concentration of business activities in Beijing and the demand for modern office facilities and an internationally connected business environment.

The aircraft adds another dimension to the image. As one of China's major international aviation hubs, Beijing is linked to the global economy through its extensive air networks. By capturing an aircraft passing above the CBD, Zhong places modern commercial architecture and international mobility in the same frame.

Amid Beijing's vibrant economic activities, Zhong translated these broader changes into a tangible urban image, allowing viewers to consider the economic forces behind Beijing's evolving skyline.

Wang said creating such an image required more than photographic skill. Zhong studied the building and its surroundings, calculated celestial positions and waited for the precise alignment of the aircraft, moon and skyscraper. The resulting composition turns a fleeting coincidence into a carefully observed visual narrative.

Wang said that through Zhong's lens, Beijing's changing appearance becomes a story of economic vitality, historical depth and global connection.

Founded in 2007, the Prix de la Photographie Paris recognizes photography from around the world and promotes international artistic exchange. Categories include architecture, nature, portraiture and photojournalism. Zhong's bronze award recognizes her distinctive approach to architectural and urban photography.

Zhong's background in architecture has shaped her approach to photography. Since beginning formal photography training around 2010, she has developed a distinctive focus on architectural subjects, documenting Beijing's historic structures, as well as its evolving urban landscape. Her photographs of the Central Axis reflect this broader interest in the relationship between architecture, public space and the city's development.

Through her work, Zhong brings an architectural perspective to urban photography, capturing how historical landmarks coexist with contemporary buildings and infrastructure. Her images offer a visual account of Beijing's transformation, connecting its architectural heritage with the economic and technological changes shaping the modern city.

The PX3 award marks an important milestone in Zhong's career.