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Cosplay location self photoshoot guide thread!
I've been doing a few solo outdoor location shoots since the pandemic, so here's some tips on what I've learned and how to get good photos safely
(I can't find my edited Eruca and Yasuho pics...oops)
I've been doing a few solo outdoor location shoots since the pandemic, so here's some tips on what I've learned and how to get good photos safely
(I can't find my edited Eruca and Yasuho pics...oops)
This guide will be in a few parts:
1. Location and costume choice
2. Safety considerations
3. Posing and framing
4. Logistical considerations
5. Technical considerations
1. Location and costume choice
2. Safety considerations
3. Posing and framing
4. Logistical considerations
5. Technical considerations
1A. Pre location scouting
I like to come up with a general theme for the shoot and the feeling I want before looking for locations. Since I almost always have the costume in mind before I choose the location for it, I think about several things:
I like to come up with a general theme for the shoot and the feeling I want before looking for locations. Since I almost always have the costume in mind before I choose the location for it, I think about several things:
- What location types would suit the series
- What location types would suit the character's story
- What emotions or general 'story' I want to tell
- If there are any special considerations, like poses I want to do that would require specific features, like something to sit on
- What location types would suit the character's story
- What emotions or general 'story' I want to tell
- If there are any special considerations, like poses I want to do that would require specific features, like something to sit on
1B. Location scouting
If I don't already have a location I mind, I turn to google maps and look for general location types, like beaches, forest paths, exteriors of pretty buildings, etc.
I look at all the 360° views, the user photos, etc., and make a ranked location list
If I don't already have a location I mind, I turn to google maps and look for general location types, like beaches, forest paths, exteriors of pretty buildings, etc.
I look at all the 360° views, the user photos, etc., and make a ranked location list
On rare occasion, I'll go to or drive by the location ahead of time to check it out, but that's often not needed since I'm often going to places I'm somewhat familiar w or have a LOT of a online photos. If it's not too far, I'd recommend this, so you won't have unwanted surprises
1C. Location considerations
I usually choose places that are populated but not TOO populated that there will be crowds. Having some people around will be good for safety reasons. More on this in the safety section.
I usually choose places that are populated but not TOO populated that there will be crowds. Having some people around will be good for safety reasons. More on this in the safety section.
1D. Get creative
You don't need a super fancy location! Look for areas where you can use a small area of the location as a backdrop, such as a cool fence or some rocks. You don't have to take big, sweeping shots if you can't find anything suitable.
You don't need a super fancy location! Look for areas where you can use a small area of the location as a backdrop, such as a cool fence or some rocks. You don't have to take big, sweeping shots if you can't find anything suitable.
1E. Costume choice
This is where things can get tricky. You are going to be solo and in public, so you want something you can either travel in or put on the finishing touches or reveal under another garment on location.
This is where things can get tricky. You are going to be solo and in public, so you want something you can either travel in or put on the finishing touches or reveal under another garment on location.
If you have elements like large wings or hoopskirts, make sure the costume is done in a way that you can put those elements on in public when you get there. Also make sure you travel in a way that allows for transport of these pieces.
Try to not do anything TOO skimpy or risque, considering that you will be in public. Use your judgement here: a swimsuit cosplay is fine on a beach, but something that skimpy might be frowned upon on a city street or in front of a church. Also be careful of your posing!
You also don't want to choose any location where posing in your costume alone might be dangerous to yourself or the costume. No big, heavy skirts in the ocean without a spotter, or ballgowns in a dense forest where it can snag. Do those with someone or choose a different location
1F. Keep weather in mind with costume choice
Try not to wear something too cool or too warm for the weather. Usually this would be fine with precautions, but since you'll be alone, use extra caution that you don't get heatstroke or hypothermia in a possibly secluded area alone
Try not to wear something too cool or too warm for the weather. Usually this would be fine with precautions, but since you'll be alone, use extra caution that you don't get heatstroke or hypothermia in a possibly secluded area alone
Some examples of this:
When I shot swimsuit!Samus and bikini!Faye, I wore the costumes under another dress that was easy to slip on and off while traveling, partly in case I needed to stop somewhere, and partly because I needed to remove my wet swimsuit and not be naked after
When I shot swimsuit!Samus and bikini!Faye, I wore the costumes under another dress that was easy to slip on and off while traveling, partly in case I needed to stop somewhere, and partly because I needed to remove my wet swimsuit and not be naked after
Another example:
I shot Lilith in Golden Gate Park, and since I drove, I knew it would be impossible to travel with my wings on, so I made sure I could put the wings on by myself so I could do so in the middle of the park. This had to be done without exposing myself.
I shot Lilith in Golden Gate Park, and since I drove, I knew it would be impossible to travel with my wings on, so I made sure I could put the wings on by myself so I could do so in the middle of the park. This had to be done without exposing myself.
An oversized shirt or other body covering can be useful for situations like this, where you might need to adjust your costume on location and in public.
2A. Safety solo shooting
I'll first cover safety considerations with the very act of shooting solo, then pandemic-specific safety considerations
I'll first cover safety considerations with the very act of shooting solo, then pandemic-specific safety considerations
2B. Being alone
Tell a trusted person where you are going and when, and be sure to text them when you get back.
Don't post where you are going on social media, including selfies at the location, until after you leave.
Tell a trusted person where you are going and when, and be sure to text them when you get back.
Don't post where you are going on social media, including selfies at the location, until after you leave.
It's highly unlikely that anything will happen to you, especially if you are in an area that has at least some degree of people around, but you also never know, and in case something DOES happen, it's good to have someone who knows where you are.
It's also unlikely that anyone will stalk you from social media to the location, but you don't want to take any chances. If anyone with bad intentions recognizes the location in selfies or back of camera shots, they can find you, so make sure you are already gone before posting.
2C. Be aware of your surroundings
I've never had a bad experience shooting in public, but you want to make sure that you don't end up so caught up in your shoot that you aren't paying attention in case something DOES happen or a bad actor finds you.
I've never had a bad experience shooting in public, but you want to make sure that you don't end up so caught up in your shoot that you aren't paying attention in case something DOES happen or a bad actor finds you.
I'm the type who always walks with one hand on my pepper spray, though, so always better to be safe than sorry!
2D. Keep an eye on your equipment
Again, I've never had an issue here, but be sure that you keep your personal effects in sight as much as possible and your camera within sprinting distance. I find it helps to weight it down, both for stability and to slow down a thief.
Again, I've never had an issue here, but be sure that you keep your personal effects in sight as much as possible and your camera within sprinting distance. I find it helps to weight it down, both for stability and to slow down a thief.
A lot of camera tripods come with a hook on the underside of the center column to hang a weight from. I often hang my bag with a full water bottle in it from this hook, and dig my tripod feet into the ground if possible.
This also helps keep the tripod stable in wind!
This also helps keep the tripod stable in wind!
2E. Weapons
Please PLEASE be as cautious as possible when shooting with fake weapons. I know they're common in cosplay, but not everyone will recognize them as a prop. If you're not Black and must use props, make sure they can't be mistaken for a real weapon, even at a distance.
Please PLEASE be as cautious as possible when shooting with fake weapons. I know they're common in cosplay, but not everyone will recognize them as a prop. If you're not Black and must use props, make sure they can't be mistaken for a real weapon, even at a distance.
If you are Black and/or dark skinned, I'm sorry to say, but I'd leave ANYTHING that might be misconstrued as a weapon at home. We don't need any more tragedy in this community (RIP Darrien Hunt)
Save them for a con setting or at home. I hate I have to say this.
Save them for a con setting or at home. I hate I have to say this.
You would HOPE obviously fake fantasy weapons would be safe to have, but I REALLY don't want anyone else to get needlessly killed for the "crime" of being Black in cosplay
2F. The 'Rona
I shoot outdoors in areas where I know I can be distanced from people as much as possible. You have to strike that balance of enough people around for safety but not enough that you come into close contact with others.
I shoot outdoors in areas where I know I can be distanced from people as much as possible. You have to strike that balance of enough people around for safety but not enough that you come into close contact with others.
If you can, stash a mask on yourself hidden in your costume. This is in case you get that rare person (I've never had one) who comes too close to ask questions about what you're doing. Usually people keep their distance, even when asking questions.
Bring hand sanitizer and try not to touch things. I usually avoid things like public restrooms. I always shower when I get home.
Follow all your usual precautions. Be sure to sanitize your hands before any makeup fixes, and wait for the sanitizer to DRY.
Follow all your usual precautions. Be sure to sanitize your hands before any makeup fixes, and wait for the sanitizer to DRY.
Shooting outdoors where the nearest person is several yards away is PRETTY low risk, but as always, if you are worried, then shoot inside your home or yard instead!
2G. Timing
I usually shoot first thing in the morning, starting no later than an hour after dawn. Besides the great lighting, there will be fewer people at your location at, say, 8AM vs noon.
If you're able to shoot on a weekday, even better.
I usually shoot first thing in the morning, starting no later than an hour after dawn. Besides the great lighting, there will be fewer people at your location at, say, 8AM vs noon.
If you're able to shoot on a weekday, even better.
I FORGOT SOMETHING ABOUT LOCATIONS
1G. While researching make sure you are allowed to shoot photos in your chosen location
It seems obvious, but sometimes, the rules are weird and you don't want to accidentally get in trouble (trespassing, shooting in areas it isn't allowed etc)
1G. While researching make sure you are allowed to shoot photos in your chosen location
It seems obvious, but sometimes, the rules are weird and you don't want to accidentally get in trouble (trespassing, shooting in areas it isn't allowed etc)
I usually shoot in public areas like city or state parks. I once did a shoot in an empty parking lot of an orchard. Basically, make sure it's an area open to the public. Things like public parks may also be unexpectedly closed with the pandemic.
If you choose a building exterior, make sure it's allowed and you aren't trespassing. Usually shooting from the street or other public areas is fine.
Make sure not to block paths of transit like walkways, sidewalks, roads, etc.
Make sure not to block paths of transit like walkways, sidewalks, roads, etc.
(I once got in trouble from a park ranger for shooting an open hoop ballgown too close to the State Capitol building...got complaints my outfit was "too vulgar" apparently. Oops. Don't be me. I had a photographer that time, though.)
Look into IF photography is allowed and what TYPE of photography is allowed. Most public lands around me allow hobby photography, but not commercial photography. I've never been questioned, but look into the needed permits and permissions if you are doing something commercial.
tbh I just avoid shooting anywhere that I would need a permit or permission, but it would be worth it to look into for the right location
3A. Posing
Practice in a mirror. Practice again. Be sure that you gain an awareness of your body and your face as you pose. You won't have anyone to guide you.
Practice in a mirror. Practice again. Be sure that you gain an awareness of your body and your face as you pose. You won't have anyone to guide you.
3B. Pose ideas
I usually save a folder on my phone with pose and shot ideas and inspiration. I find it helpful for when my mind goes blank mid-shoot and I can't think of something else. If there's something specific you want to emulate, save the photo.
I usually save a folder on my phone with pose and shot ideas and inspiration. I find it helpful for when my mind goes blank mid-shoot and I can't think of something else. If there's something specific you want to emulate, save the photo.
3C. Framing
I like to look at the frame in the camera and then mentally or physically mark where I need to stand for the photo. This can be anything from noting something in the environment that is a good spot to placing a physical marker where I should be.
I like to look at the frame in the camera and then mentally or physically mark where I need to stand for the photo. This can be anything from noting something in the environment that is a good spot to placing a physical marker where I should be.
Something I commonly do is to count items in the environment, such as noting the 5th rock from the left, or where in person the extent of the frame is.
You can also draw a line in sand or soft dirt, or place an item you either stand/sit on or remove before the photo.
You can also draw a line in sand or soft dirt, or place an item you either stand/sit on or remove before the photo.
3D. Take more photos than you think
Believe me, you will need them. You will end up with more photos than you think that are really bad -- unflattering, out of frame, hat fell in the ocean, etc. You'll get better as you go, but this is normal
Believe me, you will need them. You will end up with more photos than you think that are really bad -- unflattering, out of frame, hat fell in the ocean, etc. You'll get better as you go, but this is normal
If there's a pose that you REALLY want to nail, do an entire set of that pose.
My camera takes 9 photos per self timer session. I use all 9 on a single pose if I want to really nail it. Otherwise, you risk not being able to get that pose in a way that looks good and in frame
My camera takes 9 photos per self timer session. I use all 9 on a single pose if I want to really nail it. Otherwise, you risk not being able to get that pose in a way that looks good and in frame
I also always go back and look through my photos before the next set. It's very hard to replicate a previous pose but with tweaks unless you leave a marker for where you were, so be sure to do that. I then try to replicate the ones that are good but slightly off, out of frame etc
If you were out of frame on the previous set, rearrange your position or your camera so you can get everything you wanted in frame. Do a set, then check again. Do this until you are satisfied.
I always make sure to zoom in on my face in the photos on the back of the camera, just to make sure I wasn't making a weird face, as well.
I just realized the Samus messup photo makes me look accidentally naked because of my wig in the way LMAO
The swimsuit is high cut and I was trying to pose in the surf, but a too-large wave came up and washed my wig away
ANYWAY
The swimsuit is high cut and I was trying to pose in the surf, but a too-large wave came up and washed my wig away
ANYWAY
(You're going to see a LOT of unedited and unflattering photos of me in this thread)
3E. Be mindful of your background
Try not to get other people in the background if possible, and make sure that your framing doesn't have anything weird or unwanted in it
Try not to get other people in the background if possible, and make sure that your framing doesn't have anything weird or unwanted in it
3F. Learn what framing you like
Think about what the style of the shoot is. Do you want a distant, cinematic photo with your character as part of the landscape? Learn how to frame yourself from that distance. Take some test photos before posing.
Think about what the style of the shoot is. Do you want a distant, cinematic photo with your character as part of the landscape? Learn how to frame yourself from that distance. Take some test photos before posing.
Want close-up, portrait photos? You have a bit less leeway in your framing, so be extra careful of where you stand or pose in relation to the camera.
Make sure you have enough head space at the top.
Make sure you have enough head space at the top.
I don't always follow the rule of thirds, but I always try to have something with dramatic angles and diagonals in it, and I sometimes keep my distance and sometimes fill the frame.
If I go for frame filling, I try to have some sort of guide so I can straddle that line between filling the frame of the photo while being in frame while also not crowding the frame
3G. Don't forget detail shots!
These are harder to get solo, but be sure that you get in the details you want to showcase. Whether poses that show the back, or a close up of the embroidery, etc.
These are harder to get solo, but be sure that you get in the details you want to showcase. Whether poses that show the back, or a close up of the embroidery, etc.
4A. Solo shoot logistics
Remember that you're solo! You will have to deal with all your setup and teardown, in cosplay, yourself. Be sure that everything you bring to your location is something you can carry yourself, in cosplay, in one trip.
(Change shoes onsite if needed)
Remember that you're solo! You will have to deal with all your setup and teardown, in cosplay, yourself. Be sure that everything you bring to your location is something you can carry yourself, in cosplay, in one trip.
(Change shoes onsite if needed)
It's not feasible to bring a load of items, go back to your car, and then bring another, since you don't know what will happen to your equipment while you are gone.
I usually use a large tote to carry all my supplies. The big rainbow ones from Ikea are PERFECT for this, since you can fit a folded tripod in them easily, as well as wig heads, a touchup makeup bag, any props, reflectors, change of shoes, etc.
4B. Carry in, carry out
Anything you bring to a location, make sure you bring back out of the location. If you have small props or other items as set dressing, make sure you count them and keep track of all of them so you don't lose them!
Anything you bring to a location, make sure you bring back out of the location. If you have small props or other items as set dressing, make sure you count them and keep track of all of them so you don't lose them!
4C. Sets and props
Location shoots are great because the location itself is hopefully good for what you need, but sometimes, you want extra set dressing (like the fake candles I used for Lilith).
Location shoots are great because the location itself is hopefully good for what you need, but sometimes, you want extra set dressing (like the fake candles I used for Lilith).
If you bring anything, make sure that it is safe to bring to your area (so no real flames, strange chemicals, etc.), won't leave a mess (confetti, etc.), and won't damage the location. Anything you set up should be freestanding and shouldn't need to be affixed to items at -
- the location (I wouldn't, for example, tape things to the pillars in that Lilith photo) nor need to be staked into the ground or hung unless you know it's okay to and can remove all trace (such as at a beach, or something lightweight looped over a tree branch).
Again, make sure that all props and set dressing can be carried in and out alone and in cosplay. Any big, freestanding set pieces would need to be easily maneuverable to your location.
4D. Lay EVERYTHING out
Since I get up around 5AM for my shoots, I always make sure I have all parts of the costume, all needed makeup, all props, and all camera equipment (double check for batteries and SD cards) laid out and waiting for me the night before.
Since I get up around 5AM for my shoots, I always make sure I have all parts of the costume, all needed makeup, all props, and all camera equipment (double check for batteries and SD cards) laid out and waiting for me the night before.
You don't want to miss your shooting window because of frantic scrambling, and you REALLY don't want to get to your location and realize you forgot something.
Make sure shoot time and the prep goes as smoothly and stress-free as possible!
Make sure shoot time and the prep goes as smoothly and stress-free as possible!
5A. Camera
I use a DSLR. It was an entry-level refurbished one a couple models behind and relatively cheap, but you can use your phone if that's what you have. Be sure to get a tripod that fits whatever type of camera you're using, and that you can move and swivel the head.
I use a DSLR. It was an entry-level refurbished one a couple models behind and relatively cheap, but you can use your phone if that's what you have. Be sure to get a tripod that fits whatever type of camera you're using, and that you can move and swivel the head.
5B. Lenses
I'm not pro at photography by ANY means. I have two lenses: a 50 prime (though I have a cropped body so it acts more like a 35), and an 18-75 zoom. Both have auto focus.
I find the zoom easier to use for various reasons.
I'm not pro at photography by ANY means. I have two lenses: a 50 prime (though I have a cropped body so it acts more like a 35), and an 18-75 zoom. Both have auto focus.
I find the zoom easier to use for various reasons.
The 50 is a great portrait lens and I bought it just before the pandemic really hit so I could do shots with a nice, blurred background.
This strength is its downfall with self shooting, however, since the depth of field tends to be narrow enough that it is HARD to be in focus.
This strength is its downfall with self shooting, however, since the depth of field tends to be narrow enough that it is HARD to be in focus.
Opening up the aperture helps with this, but it's still DIFFICULT to use alone. I need more practice with it, but I find the zoom to be more foolproof.
It also allows for greater variety in shot type, and I prefer to not have to switch lenses mid solo shoot (at home, no problem)
It also allows for greater variety in shot type, and I prefer to not have to switch lenses mid solo shoot (at home, no problem)
5C. Settings
I usually use auto lmaoooo I find it easier for someone like me who isn't super skilled at photography to get myself in focus and with the correct exposure this way, since I can't mess with the settings with me in the frame.
I usually use auto lmaoooo I find it easier for someone like me who isn't super skilled at photography to get myself in focus and with the correct exposure this way, since I can't mess with the settings with me in the frame.
I do sometimes change settings for specific effects (open the aperture, reduce the exposure compensation because I'm getting blown out, etc)
I pretty much never use on-camera flash, and don't own a separate flash. Since I shoot in early mornings, this is rarely an issue
I pretty much never use on-camera flash, and don't own a separate flash. Since I shoot in early mornings, this is rarely an issue
5D. Lighting
I almost never use separate lights or reflectors outdoors, though maybe I should as a fill light :P
If you do bring reflectors, be sure you can set them up somewhere, since you won't have a lighting assistant. Bring something to prop them against, if needed.
I almost never use separate lights or reflectors outdoors, though maybe I should as a fill light :P
If you do bring reflectors, be sure you can set them up somewhere, since you won't have a lighting assistant. Bring something to prop them against, if needed.
I do have a light stick (basically a long, rectangular light about 3' long) that fits onto a tripod and is battery powered, so I could bring it on location if needed. It has natural, cool, and warm light modes. I would like to get a ring light eventually, as well.
5E. Batteries and SD cards
Be sure to fully charge all needed batteries beforehand, bring a spare portable charger, and if you own spare batteries, bring them.
I've never run out of battery on a shoot, even video, but it helps to be safe.
Be sure to fully charge all needed batteries beforehand, bring a spare portable charger, and if you own spare batteries, bring them.
I've never run out of battery on a shoot, even video, but it helps to be safe.
Also make sure your SD card has plenty of space, or you bring a backup. There would be few things more frustrating than getting to a shoot location, in costume, and finding out that you can only take a couple of photos because your card is full and you haven't backed it up
That should do it for the thread for now. If I think of anything else, I'll be sure to amend
Get out there and happy shooting~!
Get out there and happy shooting~!
