Beijing, China
By Carlos Barria
China’s once-in-a-decade leadership transition was for me a great opportunity to photograph an event that, although it all happens behind closed doors, still offers an interesting kind of visual access.
GALLERY: PANORAMAS FROM THE CONGRESS
For example, the 18th Party Congress, where China ordained its new leadership, was a unique opportunity for journalists to wander around – with fewer restrictions than normal — in the Great Hall of the People. As a first-timer, I found the building itself imposing, and full of details and un-explored corners.
I thought it would be interesting to try using a panoramic format this time, to give a sense of the officialdom surrounding the event, and the large, intimidating spaces where it was all happening. Panoramas also helped me to see more than one scene in a single picture.
The rigid and secretive atmosphere, contrasted with the warm light of the Hall’s interior, gave the place a strange feeling. There were watchers sitting erect in dark suits, guarding access to doors, walkways and elevators, as if they were part of the décor.
One very cold morning, soldiers stood in the emblematic Tiananmen Square in front of the Great Hall. It was empty and heavily secured. As the sun rose, a long line of buses transporting party delegates arrived and the show began. Delegates from every corner of China walked into the building to attend an opening speech by outgoing President Hu Jintao.
