A guide to taking photos of the stunning Meili Snow Mountain in Yunnan, a paradise on earth!

Here's a guide to capturing the perfect shots of Meili Snow Mountain:

Best Time to Shoot

November to February offers clear air and high visibility, making it the ideal season for photography. For capturing the sunrise illuminating the golden peaks, the best time is between 6-8 am. Be sure to check the sunrise time in advance.

Recommended Spots

• Feilai Temple Viewing Platform: Capture the snow mountain through the white pagoda, using the pagoda as a foreground for sunrise shots. The two-tiered platform offers a direct view of the main peak and excellent visibility.
• Kawagebo Viewing Platform: This spot provides a close-up view of the main peak, Kawagebo. The prayer flags create a striking contrast against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains.
• Wunongding Viewing Platform: Enjoy a panoramic view of all thirteen peaks of Meili, with fluttering prayer flags and the option to frame the snow mountain with the village below.
• The Lone Tree below Wunongding Slope: A less-known spot offering a wide view, with Feilai Temple in the foreground, allowing you to capture the grandeur and solitude of the snow mountain.
• Shuo Da Village: Capture the reflection of the thirteen peaks of Meili Snow Mountain in the serene waters of Xueda Lake near the village, creating a captivating image of the mountain and its mirrored image.

Photography Tips

• Equipment: A telephoto lens and tripod are recommended. A drone can also enhance your photography if available.
• Composition: Utilize foreground elements like the white pagoda or prayer flags for added depth. The rule of thirds, placing the snow mountain at the one-third mark of the frame, can also create visually appealing images.
• Parameter Settings: When shooting the sunrise against the golden peaks, slightly lower the exposure compensation to highlight the contrast between light and shadow. For snow scenes, increase the exposure compensation to enhance the whiteness of the snow.

Other Preparations

• Clothing: Pack warm clothing such as down jackets, hats, and gloves.
• Altitude Sickness Prevention: Prepare altitude sickness medication like Rhodiola in advance. Carrying an oxygen tank is also advisable.