This time, I tried a JK uniform outfit version of Kamisato Ayaka from Genshin Impact, adopting a school uniform style I tested before and readjusting the correspondence between hairstyle and accessories. The silver wig is very crucial to the entire look; the large blue bow on the back of the head and small pink cords on both sides are not only a continuation of original elements, but also anchor points that help add visual layering to the white and blue sailor suit. Because I have a detail-oriented personality, before shooting, I specifically re-tied the sailor collar knot to create a slightly tilted bow, so when framing in front of the mirror, the dark blue stripes on the knot and the skirt pleats form a smooth downward-extending visual effect.
Regarding location selection, I arranged a shooting area right in the living room at home, using beige curtains in the background as a basic soft reflector. The square fill light on the left created contour highlights, making up for the issue where large areas of white in school uniforms easily look greyish in dim daily lighting. The cat tree and that long-haired cat were pleasant surprises during the shoot. Originally, I just wanted to shoot a few sets of uniform standing poses, but the cat actively came over to circle around me, so I simply let it enter the frame. The second photo lying down was taken while teasing the cat and blind-pressing the shutter; although the composition is somewhat more relaxed, it feels very authentic and perfect for highlighting the casual Cute cat daily life atmosphere of daily selfies.
In costume details, the white top fabric is relatively thin and sheer, so wrinkles naturally form along movements, which, combined with the dark blue pleated skirt, nicely elongates lower body proportions in side-standing poses. This combination of JK uniform and anime hair accessories creates a fusion feeling between anime settings and daily real-world outfits. Pairing with white socks is a classic standard; I previously considered switching to bare legs or over-the-knee socks, but ultimately chose white crew socks between the two options. On one hand, it fits better with the youthful, refreshing impression this outfit conveys; on the other hand, it increases white space on the legs, softening visual bottom-heaviness.
To match the theme of the Heytea x Genshin Impact collaboration, I also wanted to put some effort into post-processing color grading to lower overall shadows and make skin tone look luminous, while preserving the clothing's own dark textures so white doesn't overexpose and lose shape. I've always felt that sharing cosplay isn't just about showing polished results, but more about exploring the balance of hair, makeup, props, finding angles, and interacting with surroundings. Wearing this outfit, I observed my posture in the mirror and noticed my shoulders naturally gathered forward more than usual, unconsciously fitting the reserved demeanor typical of student uniforms. Then, sitting on the rug with the cat, that stiffness was immediately melted by the soft feeling of the cat rubbing against me. This is probably the freshness that dressing up brings to daily life; I quite enjoy this way of creating brief strangeness in familiar environments, and because it was at home the entire time, I could stop to drink water and rest whenever I wanted, or smooth out the skirt and re-fold the pleats. Although I might ultimately pick only three or four photos to post, I actually shot many discarded takes while testing light and angles early on. It is precisely the trial and error in those discarded shots that makes the final compositional balance feel natural and handy.
Regarding indoor arrangement, the shelf and air conditioner decor on the left also became good background accents, especially the cat tree below with ear-shaped cutouts, quietly echoing the cat element in the theme. Compared to striking artificial poses in a studio, I still enjoy this comfortable feeling of wearing character gear, moving around normally at home, and teasing the cat. As long as light sources are controlled reasonably, home environments can equally provide a great foundation for final photos.