Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing prevalence of travel photography in scenic spots across China, highlighting the disruption it causes to the traditional tourist experience and the commercialization of public spaces [5][12][32]. Group 1: Travel Photography Phenomenon - Many scenic areas have transformed into travel photography studios, with photographers and models dominating the landscape, often obstructing other tourists' experiences [5][8][10]. - The rise of travel photography is attributed to its low entry barriers and high profit potential, with many new businesses emerging in this sector [14][20][21]. - As of now, there are 6,341 travel photography-related companies in China, with nearly 45% established within the last 1-3 years, indicating a rapid influx of new entrants [17][19]. Group 2: Economic Impact and Competition - The travel photography industry has seen significant growth, with a 268% year-on-year increase in registered travel photography shops in 2023 [20]. - The competition has led to aggressive tactics among businesses, including physical altercations over customer acquisition, reflecting the intense market pressure [24][25]. - The focus on price wars and low-cost services has resulted in a decline in service quality and overall tourist experience [25][32]. Group 3: Cultural Implications - The article critiques the superficial nature of travel photography, where tourists prioritize taking aesthetically pleasing photos over genuine cultural experiences [28][30][32]. - This trend reflects a broader shift in travel behavior towards "checklist" tourism, where the emphasis is on popular spots and social media validation rather than meaningful engagement with the destination [32]. Group 4: Regulatory Responses - Some scenic areas, like Suzhou's Tongli Ancient Town, have begun to implement regulations to curb commercial photography, emphasizing the need for balance between public enjoyment and commercial activities [34][36]. - Effective management of travel photography is possible, as demonstrated by existing regulations in various parks and historical sites that prohibit commercial photography to protect the visitor experience [33][35].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing prevalence of travel photography in scenic spots across China, highlighting the disruption it causes to the traditional tourist experience and the commercialization of public spaces [2][17][41]. Group 1: Travel Photography Phenomenon - Scenic areas like Fenghuang Ancient Town and Guilin's Li River are now filled with photographers and models, transforming them into travel photography studios rather than places for quiet enjoyment [3][4][5]. - Social media complaints about the overwhelming presence of photographers at popular sites have become common, indicating a widespread dissatisfaction among tourists [5][9][10]. - The rise of travel photography is attributed to its low entry barriers and high profitability, with many new businesses emerging in this sector [18][19][21]. Group 2: Industry Growth and Competition - The number of travel photography-related businesses in China has surged, with 6,341 companies currently registered, and a significant increase in new registrations in recent years [22][25]. - The competitive landscape has led to aggressive tactics among photographers, including physical altercations over client acquisition [28][30][31]. - The industry's rapid growth has resulted in a focus on price wars, which negatively impacts service quality and customer experience [31][35]. Group 3: Cultural Implications - The article critiques the superficial nature of travel photography, where tourists prioritize aesthetics over cultural understanding, leading to a disconnection from the authentic experiences of the locations they visit [38][39][41]. - The trend reflects a broader shift in travel behavior towards a "checklist" mentality, where the primary goal becomes capturing the perfect photo rather than enjoying the destination [42][44]. - Effective management of travel photography in public spaces is possible, as demonstrated by existing regulations in various parks and historical sites [43][45][46].