These convention photos from Day 3 of Guangzhou Firefly ACG Expo represent a Honkai: Star Rail Huohuo cosplay project that I prepared for a long time. From locking in the character to the final photo delivery, the whole journey was packed with challenges and excitement. Because Huohuo carries a characteristically timid yet remarkably spirited aura, I invested substantial energy into refining the costume and prop details.
For the wig, I selected a style with white twin tails; its gradient green tones revealed rich layering under the lights, and the trimming of the bangs and sidelocks underwent countless tweaks to better embody the character's demeanor. The outfit features numerous accessories—such as the red cord bell at the neckline, the golden piping on the cuffs, and the cloud patterns and stripes across the skirt—all meticulously recreated. Fabric selection also accounted for light reflectivity, especially the sleeves, which display a sleek, silky sheen under specific lighting. What required the most effort was that massive tail; it is voluminous yet needed a natural, fluid fur texture, requiring delicate handling on set, though its fluffy silhouette looked wonderfully cute when worn. The paired knee-high White socks and black leather shoes also complemented the overall design perfectly.
Instead of opting for conventional indoor hall sets, we followed the advice of photographer Cheng Feizhai and chose an underground garage. On one hand, the garage's moody darkness accentuated Huohuo's bright palette and fluorescent green accents; on the other hand, using the Trumpchi Empow R as a prop matched this subtly mystical aesthetic seamlessly. The trunk was rigged with green lighting that harmonized with the ambiance, echoing my green hair and tail brilliantly.
The shooting process was genuinely fun. To convey Huohuo's slightly bashful yet energetic disposition, I explored diverse postures—leaning over the trunk edge, lying inside the trunk, to sitting along the rim gesturing dynamically. The Trumpchi Empow's trunk has ample space, making lying down completely effortless, though the concrete floor was quite hard, making reclining poses slightly grueling. I especially love the fourth photo where my arms are raised high, giving off such cheerful energy. Teacher Cheng Feizhai controlled the lighting with immaculate precision; the subject popped vividly against the dark setting, and the green light strips grazing across the skirt and legs provided fantastic layered depth.
Retoucher Teacher Lao Mo worked rapidly as well, fine-tuning skin textures and harmonizing the overall color balance. While an underground garage offers a distinctive vibe, the ambient lighting in the raw cuts was somewhat messy; post-processing needed to suppress stray ambient spill, highlighting the green and white subjects while preserving authentic skin textures.
Overall, I am thoroughly pleased with the completion of these convention photos. From costume details and physical execution to chiaroscuro harmony, every aspect strived to capture Huohuo's personality traits. Communication with the photographer was fluid and smooth—carefully confirming light levels and shooting angles. Bringing this set together was truly the fruit of our team's collective dedication. I will keep honing my craft and bring even better works to upcoming expos!