[Kumiko Omae Cosplay] Sound! Euphonium's Summer Stairs

Putting on the Kitauji High School uniform and picking up this heavy euphonium, the summer atmosphere is instantly maximized. The hardest part of shooting this set of photos was actually transporting and securing the prop. Although this euphonium is just a shooting prop, its weight is much more solid than expected. To recreate Kumiko Omae's daily life in the concert band, we searched for many scenes on campus that match the work. Outdoor stairs, red-brick school buildings, and campus paths lined with palm trees and green belts were all very ideal locations for this Campus photography session.

Regarding the outfit and makeup for this cosplay, I mainly focused on presenting an overall refreshing and youthful girl feel. The fabric of the sailor uniform and pleated skirt is relatively soft, naturally forming creases when walking. Although the pink neckerchief is just a small detail, it definitely adds a bright pop of color to the overall styling and matches the energetic and lively impression that Kumiko gives people. The wig was specifically chosen to be slightly wavy short hair with an inward curl, highlighting the character's slightly childish yet determined nature.

In terms of photography, we chose the light around three o'clock in the afternoon. At this time, the color temperature of the sunlight is warm. As the light filters through the gaps in the leaves, it not only outlines the silhouette of the person but also makes the surface of the metal instrument show a very beautiful warm gold reflection. For the close-up shot on the cover, I tried to adjust to the position of the euphonium, tilting the instrument slightly so that the light refracted right out of the bell. Combined with the makeup, it instantly captured the vividness of daily practice in a marching band.

Walking along the campus paths in this outfit, passing students would occasionally turn their heads for a look, probably because the sight of someone carrying such a large instrument case and a brass instrument is indeed rare. To recreate an authentic student feel, I tried to incorporate some casual, everyday movements, such as walking with big strides, turning around to head up the stairs, and standing quietly while holding the instrument in my arms. During the actual shooting process, managing expressions and the rhythm of movements is very important. Because Kumiko is inherently a girl who is somewhat competitive yet a bit airheaded, I tried my best not to look too tense in my gaze, but rather subconsciously relaxed.

Every time I do a cosplay from Sound! Euphonium, it reminds me of those boys and girls in the anime striving for the national gold medal. An instrument is not merely a prop; it carries the character's love for music and their companions. Although I don't know much about the actual playing techniques of the euphonium, when holding these valves and tuning slides, I can feel a wondrous resonance. I hope those who see this set of photos can also feel a touch of refreshing energy and vitality belonging to summer and music.