This time, I arranged to shoot the Azur Lane Taihou and Cheshire New Year themed works with the teacher 'Wo Xiang Chi Fan'. The scene setup was specifically chosen to use a large amount of red and gold elements, paired with outfits featuring plush-trimmed Qipao and white lace stockings, all to present that festive and slightly playful holiday atmosphere.
The outdoor studio shoot day was actually a bit chaotic because Taihou's hair accessories and Cheshire's large red flower headpiece were both quite tall, and we also had to ensure the embroidery and plush edges on the Qipao wouldn't deform due to sitting postures. Fortunately, my partner and I cooperated very tacitly. Especially when shooting the first photo where we hold our chins and look at each other, the intimacy of the duo in the frame came out instantly. Although we have completely different character personalities, we quickly found the best state of interaction in front of the lens.
We specifically brought along a Pipa prop this time, paired with golden tree branches and red lanterns on the side; the New Year spirit could be said to be fully packed. To restore the character's agility during the celebration, we designed several different movements, such as holding a scroll to pray for blessings or lazily leaning on a wooden stool. The photographer's lighting was excellent, as the soft light captured the golden embroidery of the Qipao and the plush texture very clearly. The three elements of portraiture are indeed no joke; good early preparation, combined with lighting and composition, really increased the rate of successful final shots significantly.
During the shooting process, I was actually constantly thinking about how to better blend Taihou's elegance and Cheshire's sweetness in this specific New Year context. So, many times, we didn't deliberately pose in very rigid positions, but rather, like hanging out with friends, half-lying, pulling each other, or looking at the lens together. This natural interaction instead better embodies the sense of relaxation belonging to the holiday. Although the plush coats look warm, shooting in them was actually quite tiring, because the indoor heating was quite strong, and combined with the slim-fitting cut of the Qipao, both movement and breathing were somewhat restricted, but the moment I saw the final photos, everything was worth it.
This duo cooperation made me feel exceptionally happy. Because I usually produce more solo images, the sense of rhythm and richness of the frame that can be achieved when two people complete a full theme creation together is something that solo work cannot compare to. From the preparation of costumes and props to the final post-production selection, every link involved discussion with my partner, and the shooting process was also much more relaxed. Putting on this red Qipao, wearing the wig and hair accessories, it felt as if I had really entered that Azur Lane port, spending a lively Spring Festival with a partner fighting side by side.
Throughout the gaps in the shoot, we also took some behind-the-scenes shots; although they weren't released this time, those moments captured were actually more like daily life. I also took this opportunity to well experience the wonderful feeling of this New Year outfit. The photographer's professionalism was very high; not only did they communicate the scenes and color tones in advance, but they also adjusted our postures and eye contact many times to ensure that every lens captured the best state.
Overall, this was a very smooth and New Year-flavored shoot. I hope everyone can feel this happy atmosphere of the duo in the frame through the photos, and also feel the unique charm of the characters themselves.