Qingdao: A city rich in naval tradition

Photographer Zhang Lianxun was desperate to take his chance to snap one of the amazing vessels on show off the shores of his hometown Qingdao yesterday.

But in a city that boasts proud residents and a rich naval history, he was not alone.

"We have the passion, the camera and the skills, but normal people like me don't usually get access to these wonderful ships," said the 26-year-old, a local resident who will be denied access to the coast for the grand fleet parade because of the extremely tight security.