With still a lot of Lie groups and Lie algebras homework left, the photoshoot schedule couldn't be delayed, so I squeezed out half a day to shoot this Neon Genesis Evangelion Asuka Cosplay in the studio.
Wearing the outfit was actually quite particular. Styling the red twintails took a lot of time, especially adjusting the curve of each strand of hair to ensure texture when swaying. The red-and-black mecha gloves were heavy; holding the long spear put a lot of strain on the wrist, making it somewhat tiring to hold poses for an extended period.
The costume details were also very exquisite: a white shirt paired with a red bow tie, a black strapped vest layered outside, and translucent mesh material on the skirt hem. Especially with the combination of over-the-knee Black stockings and platform shoes, strict demands were placed on standing posture and gait during shooting to accentuate the leg lines.
To match the photographer's red-and-blue warm-and-cool lighting, particularly the poses at the boundary of light and shadow, we shot many sets of actions. For example, in the shot where I'm half-kneeling and looking back at the camera, to ensure stability while making the lines of the long spear look long and straight, we repeatedly adjusted the swaying amplitude of the twintails and the angle of the arms multiple times. Fortunately, I am personally very satisfied with the final result.
Although I usually spend most of my time facing mathematical formulas, putting on a specific character's costume and standing under the spotlight was still a very unique Cosplay photography experience. The lights in the studio shifted continuously, and maintaining a cold, stern gaze throughout the shoot made for an interesting switch in mindset.
In fact, every time I cosplay a character, it requires taking time to understand their internal state. The character of Asuka carries many emotions, including that unyielding spirit and stubbornness. The process of adjusting my gaze and posture during the shoot was also a process of re-experiencing the character's mindset, which is probably where the joy of roleplay lies. Because I still had to rush back to finish homework, the cost of doing a cosplay shoot was actually quite high—the time to prepare props, style hair, and adjust the set was compressed very tightly. But to present the character's traits, all these preparations were essential. At the end of the shoot, putting on the heavy camera bag again and looking at the red spear in my hand, for a moment I felt like I hadn't completely stepped out of the character. This set of photos captures that moment's state and records the effort to present completeness even under academic pressure. I think wearing an outfit properly and holding the props in hand isn't just imitating an appearance, but more about trying to touch the inner strength of that character and convey it. Although the poses were staged, the feeling meant to be conveyed at that moment was genuine.