Shanghai through the lens

A curated selection of photos depicting the vitality and prosperity of Shanghai will be launched by China Daily in August to celebrate the 40th anniversary of China's reform and opening-up.

The launch of this project took place on May 10 during an event titled 100 Photographers Focus on Shanghai that gathered professionals such as Li Ge, chairman of the Chinese Photographers Association, and Wang Miao, chairman of the International Union of Chinese Photograph. Exhibitions of these photos are also scheduled to take place in August.

The works include scenes from various parts of the city, such as sunrise as seen from the Bund, the Memorial for the Site of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China, and the Yangshan Deep-Water Port, the world's biggest automated container terminal.

Others depict the city's residents performing experiments in a lab, playing at a sports center and dancing at the famous Paramount Hall. Many of the photos showcase the city's charming blend of old and new.

Once a fishing village that was turned into a key trading port in China after it opened up to the world in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), Shanghai has evolved into a major financial hub thanks to a series of reforms that have encouraged rapid economic growth and urbanization.

According to the latest master plan, Shanghai is now set to become a global hub for technological innovation, trade, shipping, finance and economy. This ambition is also captured through the lens of the photographers featured in the book.