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.

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.