[Aoi Kiriya Cosplay] Aikatsu!: Blue Melody Below the Stage

On this day at the Guangzhou Firefly ACG Expo, I changed into Aoi Kiriya's stage outfit and stood on the riverside walkway, feeling as if I were about to sing our melody on stage in the very next second. Although we shot many indoor photos inside the convention hall, I prefer this kind of outdoor shoot imbued with the city's dusk atmosphere. The river behind me, distant skyscrapers, and that distinctive purple-blue evening sky made this blue-and-white plaid skirt look exceptionally lively.

For this shoot, I brought along a black handheld microphone to recreate that ready-to-sing-anytime feel. From playful poses balancing on one leg, to moments extending my hand to invite you for a duet, to quiet sitting on evening stairs gazing into the camera, the photographer's fill lighting and backlight rimming really helped immensely. Especially in those two shots after night fell, the highlighted hair edge lights instantly boosted my aura, as if a stage spotlight shone on me alone.

In fact, this dress has plenty of details, such as the plaid bow tie at the collar, ruffled cuffs, and that voluminous white tulle lining under the skirt hem, creating a rich layered look when worn. Combined with white platform boots and over-the-knee socks, it preserved the character's energetic vibe while making leg lines look sleeker. Wearing glitter rhinestone eye makeup that shined brightly under both natural light and camera flashes, when turning back on the bridge with my Blue hair twin tails, even passing tourists couldn't help but look twice.

The weather was great on shoot day. Although it felt somewhat humid and hot in the evening, when the river breeze blew up my skirt hem, it formed a perfect harmony with the curled hair ends. Being able to take time out during the convention for a set of narrative street photos was truly worthwhile. My partner and I checked outfit accuracy repeatedly; from hair accessories to the blue gemstone buttons on the sock covers, not a single small accessory was left out. Holding the mic and striking poses, upbeat rhythms naturally echoed in my head, making me relax subconsciously and smile more naturally.

As a cosplayer who frequently attends conventions, I've always felt that the charm of outdoor shoots lies in \"authenticity\"—no matter how exquisite an outfit is, it only comes alive in real scenery. The greenery around the Guangzhou Firefly ACG Expo venue was fantastic, and walking along the river channel revealed plenty of suitable camera spots. Though shooting went until dark and dew formed on the steps, seeing captured moments in the camera viewfinder made all fatigue vanish. Given another chance, I'd love to try shooting a set under bright sunny weather to let the blue plaid on the outfit reflect even brighter colors.

Organizing photos, I couldn't help but reflect while selecting shots that every earnest preparation and shoot is a tribute to the character. I hope everyone behind the screen can feel the joy and vitality I convey through Cosplay photography.