Chinese architectural photographer Terrence Zhang has won this year’s Architectural Photography Awards. It is the first time the award has been introduced in China with 20 finalist images exhibiting in Beijing and Berlin at the same time from mid-November to December.

Good architectural photography goes beyond documenting buildings; it tells stories behind their concept, environment and purpose.

Terrence Zhang’s striking photograph (top image) is of a swimming pool designed for a new campus in Tianjin University. The dramatically lit and empty space creates a magnificent atmosphere of solitude.

In an interview with CGTN, Zhang said the photo was shot in winter, a period which saw a huge difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures that threatened to break his equipment. But once he found the amazing light, he stayed for a long time to enjoy the serene moment.

Two other pieces by Zhang were also up for the award.

There competition includes four categories: "Buildings in Use," "Exteriors," "Interiors," and "Sense of Place". 

All 20 shortlisted works are on display private gallery IMAGE+SPACE in Beijing. Curator Shu Liang expressed belief that the event will help connect photographers and architects, and promised to bring award-winning work to China every year.

"This is a meaningful thing in the field of architectural photography. I hope through this exhibition, Chinese photographers and architects can sense international trends and be inspired. We also hope to introduce excellent architects and photographers abroad," Shu said.

Renowned architect Wang Zhenfei, another contestant in the competition, joked about how photography was his second career. As its designer, he skilfully captured the entrance hall of the Tian Ren He Yi Art Center in Hangzhou.

The photograph was taken on a whim after the project was completed. But Wang says it is necessary to think about how to better express the building's character, not just its exterior.

"Architecture is three-dimensional and people can experience it. Photography is a plain way of expression, you can not enter it or change the angle. Photographers have to solidify a three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional surface though techniques and a visual angle, to help people understand the space. This is photographer's responsibility. The expression of a two-dimensional surface requires an aesthetic quality from photographers. And the photograph is a second-time creation," Wang maintained.

The Architectural Photography Awards highlights the world's best photographs of buildings every year. A selection from the shortlist will also feature in an exhibition next year in London.