Character: Zero Two (streetwear)
Sauce: Darling in the Franxx
Cosplayer: @bethofthewild (IG)

This was the first shoot I decided to do in full on the old rangefinder. It was a test of both the gear and my own ability to not rely on an built-in light meter or split-focusing. It was a rare overcast day, and so I popped on a 2-stop ND filter and loaded Cinestill 400D. I was then able to shoot at wider apertures to keep the dreamy, soft quality of the lens. 400D gave me the cold tones that reflected the weather and I feel suited the overall aesthetic much better than warm tones would have.

Beth came prepared in her stompin’ boots; it was uncanny to walk beside her when she was suddenly as tall as I was. Her outfit was on point for the streetwear concept and of course she was in her Zero Two wig, horns, and makeup. The Dino Girl Streetwear shoot was off to a great start. The first location was a bust - it was far too crowded, as several gatherings were taking place. We decided to head straight to downtown, where a couple of events were taking place. We took photos around the area and at the first event we attended.

*“I’m always alone, too, thanks to these horns.”*
Cinestill 400D

Parking decks can be a boring place to shoot, but sometimes, they have just the right vibe. Between the stairwells, murals, and downtown view, we had a solid selection to work with. Beth was bringing heat to this chilly day with her Zero Two look and was doing a great job with posing. Several people at the first event mentioned her character, as she was quite the popular dino. While we shot on a lower deck, I noticed several people watching us from above. Shooting portraits in public is already a nervous experience and it didn’t help to have blatant onlookers. Still, we were able to work past the stares and get in some terrific shots.

*Alfa Romeo 4C - 002 Edition*
Cinestill 400D

The first event we went to was a Cars and Cosplay photo meetup (no affiliation). I was curious as to what and who were going to show up to this event of my namesake more than anything. At first, it was slow and disorganized, but an Alfa Romeo 4C rolled in and caught my attention. I stopped the driver and asked for a quick shot while the car was by itself with the city as a backdrop. I should have shot this at F/8, but I made the mistake of hurrying along so that he could get back in his car. Cinestill did a great job rendering the red and contrast, though, and Beth held her ground despite me missing focus.

Shooting 400D was the right move. I was able to make full use of my wide aperture and get the tones I wanted from an overcast day. I am not usually out to render accurate colors or get the most crisp details. It is more interesting to create an image that is more artistically appealing and emotionally captivating. This is one of the reasons that I enjoy working with Beth, as she has an appreciation for art and an innate talent. Between her vibes and the film selection, we always make stellar photographs. There are of course others that have similar appreciation and great vibes of their own, but alas, Beth has the honor of being my favorite muse.

Urban Dino

Modal Soul

My First Rangefinder