First time tourist visa request. Copy of flight ticket base on estimate date of travel?

Dear Consulate - I plan to visit China as a tourist between late July and early September. Due to my current work schedule I do not know the exact timing. I want to apply for my visa at the New York consulate within the next 2 weeks. Again due to work schedule. May I submit a photo copy of the tickets based on my best estimated travel dates? I plan to stay with a friend in China and I will be responsible for all my expenses. I am hoping to travel the last 2 weeks of July. (Best estimate). I truly appreciate the your support and direction.

My kindest regards,
Anthony Ottaviano Jr