[Reed the Flame Shadow cosplay] Shanghai Arknights Only convention record

The Shanghai Oct 3 Arknights only convention has wrapped up, and these past few days I've been busy organizing all the Convention photos sent over by photographers. The character I portrayed this time was Reed the Flame Shadow, and from pre-production to on-site presentation, the entire experience felt deeply rewarding. To capture the character's aura authentically, I poured immense effort into hair and makeup styling. Trimming the bangs and dialing in the sculpted curvature of the wig took quite a while, and to keep the horns atop my head secure while walking around the hall, I added several structural anchors inside. Regarding the costume, I strived to faithfully recreate the texture of the brown high-neck top and the golden five-pointed star emblem on the chest; the white diamond cutout design paired with our fabric choices yielded a look I was genuinely pleased with under the hall lights.

Once on site, I was truly swept up by everyone's enthusiasm. Walking through the venue, I was recognized repeatedly by fellow fans, and some even called out excitedly to me as Loughshinny. That sensation of being recognized and cherished brings pure happiness. While roaming the floor, I stopped by the fan doujin booth area, which was bustling with energy. What left a vivid impression was running into a Mandragora cosplayer busily selling Dublinn red dragon bones; seeing so many people loving these characters warmed my heart.

What touched me most was receiving numerous Polaroid snapshot gifts from photographers. The tactile feel of Polaroid film is completely distinct from digital captures, with every single print being a tangible one-of-a-kind treasure. Since instant film is sensitive to light, I kept them carefully tucked inside a light-shielded pouch throughout the event, only spreading them out to appreciate after returning home. I also encountered many incredible cosplayers, chatting, posing together, and trading tips on hair and makeup craft. Standing alongside friends cosplaying diverse characters—each in distinct attire and gear, yet gathered here for the exact same passion—created an atmosphere that online interactions could never match.

Having cosplayed quite a few times, I'd also love to pass along a modest tip: cosplaying characters with large props or substantial garments consumes tremendous stamina at conventions. For instance, the long-handled staff I carried this time was faithfully detailed, yet holding it aloft over hours definitely left my wrists sore. When bringing such gear, packing some muscle relief patches or finding rest areas to sit down during lulls between hall walks is a great habit. Additionally, event hall lighting is notoriously complex; when snapping phone selfies, facing directly toward light sources or picking relatively clean backdrops for Polaroid shots makes a world of difference.

At this Shanghai Arknights Only event, whether immersed in the theme of the deep-night prison-breakers or the Moonwalk activities, gathering together with so many souls who love the very same universe represents the ultimate meaning of an anime convention. Every event brings fresh insights and new friendships. Now it's time for some well-earned rest before prepping for upcoming shoots, eagerly looking forward to bringing more beloved characters to life.