[Shikanoin Heizou cosplay] Genshin Impact Anemo Boys School AU: How Our Study Session Turned into a BL Academy

We originally planned to shoot a Genshin Impact Anemo boys School AU study party, but as the shoot went on, everyone's energy drifted in an unexpected direction, turning the classroom into a full-on BL academy. This time I took on Shikanoin Heizou cosplay, joining everyone at the Lanshiguan Natural Light Studio for this custom campus-themed shoot.

The natural lighting on the day of the shoot was fantastic, with lush green lawns and an overpass right outside the window. At first, everyone was behaving properly, gathering around desks snacking and playing cards just like a classic after-school routine. The photographer was right beside us capturing all our subtle interactions.

By the second half of the shoot, however, everyone completely let loose. Since we are close friends and all the AU elements were our own custom concepts, we felt totally relaxed. Looking back at the behind-the-scenes footage, every duo interaction felt delightfully ambiguous and romantic. For instance, when Venti cosplay and Xiao cosplay stood together, Venti would actively lean in close; when Kaedehara Kazuha cosplay and the Wanderer paired up, the tension felt far beyond simple classmates.

Sitting in my chair as Shikanoin Heizou, I tried to keep my movements calm, composed, and subtly playful. For example, during selfies, I held up the camera calling everyone to gather close; or in front of the chalkboard, I sat on a stool with crossed legs striking a pose.

For the solo portrait shots at the end, the photographer had each of us strike a pose best representing our character's personality. I chose to lean over the desk, resting my cheek on my hand while gazing straight into the lens. I felt this pose captured both a relaxed demeanor and a sharp, teasing intensity that fits Heizou's nature. Everyone worked together seamlessly throughout the shoot with well-prepared props. Even though the theme was students, each person had unique styling details.

As the cosplayer bringing this AU Heizou to life, I incorporated a lot of my own personal interpretations during the shoot—like those slightly mischievous expressions I envisioned. Beyond my own role, watching the performances of Venti, Xiao, Kaedehara Kazuha, and the Wanderer was amazing. They were all incredibly handsome and captured the essence of Genshin Impact's Anemo boys perfectly, simply adapted into student identities.

Thanks to photographer Wancan Guaren for the candid shots, and thanks to the makeup artist for styling the wig that demands so much facial framing. Although it was a private School AU concept, the final photos turned out with great texture and quality. Everyone is usually busy with work, so getting all five of us together for characters we love was truly special in itself. Looking forward to our next themed shoot—wishing everyone the very best!