Beautiful light from a place where you could take advantage! For me the mountains are the star so I prefer the tighter view of #2. Well done. I'd probably look to go even tighter to isolate the peaks on the right.
Yes, they are trying to extract money from you. Generally they offer massages (of various varieties) and other services. They will also say they just want to walk with you and practice their English to create an opening. They mostly hang out on Nanjing Road and around the Bund.
I've never felt...
I have to say, I am definitely catching the timelapse bug. I usually don't have the patience to leave my camera untouched for hours, but when I do the results have been fun. I'm using the Panasonic S1RII which has a really nice timelapse exposure leveling feature that creates smooth transitions...
I've been to China many times, mostly in Shanghai and Shenzhen with a few nights in Changsha and Yangshuo as well. I have had business meetings in Guangzhou but have never actually explored the city. Happy to answer any questions about China travel in general as well as Shanghai.
I will note...
There is an issue with Uploading Photos (attachjments). I am not sure what the problem is, and I am looking into it. You can still try to Create your Threads and Upload your Photos, but it is hanging up during the Upload.