This time, I took the opportunity to apply for the Chongqing 18th Dreamland Comic Exhibition Independent travel, scheduling three completely distinct character cosplays across three days: Zibai, Chisaki, and Dolia. To ensure my spot on Dreamland's Independent travel roster, I recently went through the official standard procedure—first compiling the required photo and text content across various social media platforms, organizing stage shots and detailed photos taken around comic conventions into clean layouts, and then following the steps on Bilibili to like the official event campaign before submitting through the application portal. The organizers stipulated only a single submission window from noon on January 6 to noon on January 15, so while reviewing my materials, I repeatedly checked image sizes and character details several times to avoid any oversight that might result in rejection.
For the characters across these three days, I designed distinct makeup styles and prepared tailored props for each. For instance, Dolia's dewy radiance required coordinated eyeshadow and lip colors to highlight her spirited liveliness, combined with specific metallic hardware on the outfit to capture a layered dimension. To complement this look, I deliberately chose white Stockings and high heels, which visually elongate the leg lines on camera and focus visual attention—a styling choice beloved by many fellow fans. Meanwhile, Chisaki's styling leans vintage and serene, so during the shoot, I picked outdoor stone steps with a cool, detached mood; the cold lighting effects matched the outfit's blue-and-white palette seamlessly. As for Zibai, her heroic and valiant presence demands strict control over shoulder silhouettes and waistlines, so I adjusted the stiffness of accessories accordingly to echo her crisp, formidable charm.
When applying for Independent travel, official reviews place substantial weight on overall visual quality. Therefore, these photos not only demanded refined composition, but also a natural, candid presence in the frame without looking overtly stiff or posed. To ensure my application succeeded, I specifically reached out to a photographer friend skilled in dynamic candid captures, shooting several candidate sets under different lighting conditions. Among the final curated photos, both the nuances of light and shadow and costume accuracy faithfully present the visual essence of each character. The set with the massive blue simulated moon backdrop in particular centers the subject within the composition; paired with extended leg lines and footwear details, it serves perfectly as an eye-catching key visual.
For a cosplayer running three consecutive days, time management and energy pacing are vital. Dolia's makeup and hair styling are relatively intricate, so I deliberately scheduled her for the final day, hoping to wrap up this Independent travel journey in peak form. Meanwhile, Zibai and Chisaki's cooler, serene styles allowed me to cultivate a calm mindset before the event began, smoothing out the wig styling ahead of time to handle day one with composure. Before applying, I also checked Chongqing's early spring weather; although it tends to be chilly, to meet everyone at the moment fireworks bloom, I prepared warming solutions in advance while minimizing bulky underlayers that might compromise the outfit's lines.
The application categories for Dreamland this time are very detailed—spanning eight classifications including Cosplay Independent travel, Lolita, Hanfu, Fursuit, Tokusatsu, Kigurumi, Anime Mask/Object-head, and Mecha—allowing creators of diverse passions to find their niche. After preparing my materials, my greatest anticipation is smoothly passing the review and bringing these three meticulously designed looks into the Chongqing International Expo Center from February 7 to 9, 2026. The moment of blooming fireworks mentioned in the post is one of my biggest highlights for the three days. Taking commemorative photos with fellow enthusiasts under the fireworks and experiencing the exclusive romance of a 2D festival has always been why everyone loves the Dreamland Comic Exhibition. While the on-site atmosphere hasn't fully unfolded yet, I can already imagine how lively it will be. Cosplay is never just about wearing an outfit; from choosing themes and detailing makeup to collaborating closely with photographers on set, every step holds unique value. Heading to Dreamland with these preparations, I hope to meet fellow fans who share the same love for these characters and make this three-day journey a memorable highlight.