For this convention shoot, I chose the maid outfit version of Ganyu Cosplay from Genshin Impact. This costume has intricate details, and the day of the shoot presented quite a few challenges.
First, let's talk about the coordination of this outfit. The maid dress is primarily black, white, and blue, adorned with lots of lace and ruffles. To give the overall silhouette a more elongated look, I paired it with semi-sheer Black stockings and red-bottom high heels. Walking around the convention was a real test of physical stamina, especially standing in heels all day. But to recreate that elegance and charm, I had to persevere no matter how tiring it got.
The shooting environment was in a well-lit photography area outside the main exhibition hall. Behind us, staff members had set up a softbox, which made the captured skin texture look exceptionally clean. The first and second photos were taken on a plush rug; that pose looks casual, but it actually required careful balance control to avoid appearing stiff. The fourth shot seated on a high barstool is my favorite: the photographer had me cross my legs, which not only showcased long legs and Black stockings, but also created a relaxed posture.
I've cosplayed other characters before, but this Genshin Impact maid Ganyu Cosplay gave me a completely distinct feeling. Perhaps because the on-site lighting coordinated so well, combined with the lively and hurried buzz of the convention floor, the photos took on a vivid, authentic texture. Naturally, I also ran into other Genshin Impact cosplayers on-site, including someone doing Shenhe cosplay; we chatted backstage exchanging wig-styling tips and felt an instant mutual connection.
Throughout the session, I constantly sought the best angles to ensure facial expressions and leg lines looked harmonious. These Convention photos differ from studio shoots—without prolonged fine retouching, they prioritize the captured fleeting emotion of the moment. I worked hard to soften my gaze, hoping to convey the character's serene, gentle demeanor.
Carrying this costume around was actually very heavy; the headpieces, petticoat crinoline, and high heels were physically draining just to wear. But seeing the final Convention photos, everything felt worth it. The greatest charm of live convention shots is how they preserve your actual state at that moment. I'm thrilled to have collaborated with the photographer to freeze these lovely moments, leaving behind a satisfying memento of this convention trip.
Also, I should mention the backdrop: the steel stairs and photography gear behind added gritty, rugged elements that contrasted strikingly with the delicate gentleness of the maid dress. Since the seated angle on the stool captured leg contours so well, I deliberately adjusted my posture to look more composed. With the heavy foot traffic at the convention, completing this shoot in such a relatively quiet corner was genuinely lucky.