For this Arknights Exusiai the New Covenant cosplay, the key focus was placed on the visual presentation of an overall tactical style combined with striking color contrasts. Every step from makeup tests to shooting demanded precise control. Trimming and styling the wig was the first major challenge to conquer. To recreate the character's signature short red hair, the wig required multiple rounds of thinning and setting. Red hair tends to appear dry and frizzy under intense studio lighting, so considerable effort went into selecting the right fiber material and post-styling maintenance. Securing the halo overhead was equally technical; it had to be hidden seamlessly among the hair strands while remaining stable enough not to dislodge during dynamic poses. For makeup, a refined and sharp eye look paired with amber contact lenses enhanced the piercing intensity of the gaze, complemented by subtle reddish eyeshadow and fine eyeliner to accurately convey her unique presence before the lens.
The texture and details of the outfit define the overall authenticity of the cosplay. The black leather jacket takes center stage, with its surface grain and red accent piping forming the core visual framework. The white undershirt adds depth, while the metallic neckline pendant and black crossover straps needed frequent adjustment during the shoot to prevent tangling when posing. For the lower half, black shorts paired with black thigh straps create visual indentations that heighten the tactical aesthetic. The most visually striking element is the addition of over-the-knee White stockings. The intense black-white-red contrast not only elongates the leg lines visually but also injects a sense of tension into the cool silhouette. To complement the outfit, black lace-up combat boots were chosen. During the shoot, casually removing one or both boots to hold them added a spontaneous, dynamic touch that made the visuals far more vivid.
Regarding props, the sci-fi styled black rifle exudes mechanical appeal. Its gray panels, red highlights, and black chassis echo the outfit's color palette flawlessly. The prop rifle carries significant weight; holding it with one hand or posing required noticeable arm and wrist strength. To look completely effortless on camera, I repeatedly practiced weapon handling before the shoot to identify angles that were both physically sustainable and visually expressive.
A clean white background was chosen for the studio set, presenting a high demand on lighting. To prevent blending into the white background, the photographer set up dedicated rim and key lights to sculpt distinct outlines. Perched on a white cylindrical stool, I experimented with multiple poses. Crossing my legs while casually resting a finger against my cheek and holding the gun with the other hand evoked a relaxed, confident vibe while drawing focus to the legs. Holding up the boots in another shot introduced interactive charm, while sitting cross-legged on the floor making a peace sign added a playful touch. With every adjustment, close attention was paid to the folds of the leather jacket and the placement of dangling straps to keep the composition richly detailed without feeling cluttered. While the shoot was stiflingly warm under the heavy layers, seeing the high-contrast visuals materialize in the camera preview made every ounce of effort worthwhile.