I've sorted out a few outdoor locations I've recently shot at in Wuhan. Coincidentally, this Gothic style cosplay set in a black-and-white theme was completed in these old buildings. The European-style staircases and vintage wooden windows pair perfectly with this dark style cosplay. That afternoon, the sunlight filtered through the lattice windows, and the glow from the lantern added layers to the shadows, creating a fantastic atmosphere on-site.
Sharing a few places I've personally tested and found highly photogenic:
The staircase at the former site of the Guangdong Bank is indeed a classic, but you need to be mindful of the residents when shooting, since it's not a dedicated studio. The European-style pavilion in Zhangbihu Park is great for using a telephoto lens to capture reflections in the water, looking crisp and clean. Although Lianhua Temple by Tangxun Lake is still under renovation and not fully open, its Western Region-style pagoda and corridors already carry a strong aesthetic presence. Additionally, the Spanish Custom Street and Italian Custom Street at Optics Valley Walking Street are perfect for wide shots during the day when there are fewer crowds. I often pass by but rarely shoot there; I'll definitely make up for it next time.
For something more modern, Dazhi Wujie Sky Town features two very open overpasses and a rooftop. It looks exceptionally crisp on sunny days, and at night, the railings and urban buildings make for great backgrounds for architectural photography. The clock tower at Pinghe Packing Factory is beautiful and works reliably well for both day and night shoots. If you want to shoot Hong Kong-style moody photos, the contrast of cool and warm light in Meizishan Tunnel is an excellent option.
For traditional Chinese styles, the newly renovated rockery corridors at Guqintai are surprisingly photogenic, though you should mind the time as it closes around 5:00 PM. The bamboo forest in Xiong Tingbi Park is serene but filled with mosquitoes, so insect repellent is a must-bring. Baiyun Cave is a bit remote but uncrowded; the lighting inside the cave and the mountain paths offer a rugged, wild feel. Baotong Temple and Jiefang Park are classic staple locations. Baotong Temple doesn't allow entry after 4:30 PM, but you can try entering from the side parking lot; the lakeside woods at Jiefang Park never disappoint.
The photos shared this time are all raw on-site shots. The secrets to great architectural photography lie in the pairing of light and scenery—try a few more angles, and you will always find surprises at your chosen cosplay photography location.