Books and Cosplay 2025

 In a few hours the Book Fair Leipzig (Leipziger Buchmesse) is about to start. As usual the Manga-Comic-Con (MCC) is part of it as well. 

After doing a poll about the reason of visiting the event the majority voted for meeting friends/community ativities (52%), photo shootings and location (39%) and a few to meet me ;), but nobody choose shopping or program. Therefore the question might be, do we need so many shopping booths for merchandise?

Yes, but No, simple and precise, I know.

The people in my "bubble" are primarily Cosplayers, so their focus are costumes, crafting and sewing tools or materials, their needs / main interest is costume-based. On the other hand you have those fair goers who simply want to get to know the latest merchandise, manga or anime and are willing to spend their saved cash on plush dolls, figures or just enjoy. We may not forget the fact that's it's a trade fair, too, mostly for books - who wpuld have guessed that - but also for video game publishers. I am looking forward to see and visit the booth of NINTENDO, should be a guaranteed hit, although I think I already know all the presented games or own them.

I am also happy to meet my friend from Games Room SVVAMP, it's been too long since I met him. Talking to him will create a few Monster Hunter flashbacks, because they are having a Monster Hunter community meetup and some sort of challenge aside the many offered tournaments with amazing prizes.

But every trade fair, especially otaku conventions, have a huge program and many shows, there are show groups and other acts, but the highlight of that is always the cosplay contest. Some cons call their contests championships, but there is only real championship, the DCM (Deutsche Cosplay Meisterschaft), all the others are copycats that try to blow up their relevance by using such a name making it sound bigger, more important and better, but when there are 5 championships, there is no championship, so it's just a regular contest.

Beside the MCC hall my main interest is the central glass hall, because I will pack a punch of taking thousands of pictures and normally the available light there is just perfect, so you don't need any flash and the ISO can stay low.

I will take a break of those shootings by visiting WirMachenDruck, they are some sort of business partner, because they print my books. I will also have a look for the travel section hoping to maybe find a publisher for one of four books or any of the 3 that are "work in progress".

I am quite excited and will have some difficulties to get a rest. I am ready and all my gear is packed, my batteries are charged and my SD cards are not completely empty, but I have ~400GB of available space, this should work.

ENJOY LBM 2025!

The Future is Purple

The Origin of Purple Shirt Guy

I am Martin Andreas Arendt – photographer, gamer, drone pilot, and Japan specialist. Over the past three years, I have established a nickname alongside my long-time alias "Neko-Lord": Purple Shirt Guy. Unlike Blue Shirt Guy from Ryan Reynolds' Free Guy, my title has an entirely different origin. It all began with a lucky shirt I wore while flying drones—never a crash while wearing my signature purple shirt. Before that, however, I had already crashed two drones, which, by sheer coincidence, led to the ritual of always wearing the purple shirt. Over time, it evolved into a ritual, a staple of my persona, and an essential part of my identity.

My love for purple runs deep, but it has to be the right shade. Lavender and lilac are too pastel, aubergine leans too blue, and Bordeaux is more red than purple. This particular hue became synonymous with me, particularly during my frequent visits to cosplay conventions, where I almost always wore my iconic purple shirt. Of course, I own multiple identical versions—otherwise, the implications of repeated wear would be questionable, both practically and olfactorily. As my presence at events grew, so did my visual identity. The shirt became a symbol, a brand of sorts, instantly recognizable. And so, I embraced it: the photographer also known as Purple Shirt Guy.

It started with drones

Looking Forward – The Future is Purple

This identity isn't just a fleeting trend—it’s something I intend to expand upon. Beyond merely a nickname, I want to integrate it into my overall style and artistic expression. My last two books, DRESSED and MASKED, already feature their titles in bold purple letters, a deliberate nod to this personal brand. Moving forward, I plan to deepen this aesthetic incorporation, making it an even more prominent part of my creative journey.

The Psychology of Purple

From a psychological perspective, purple is often associated with creativity, artistry, and individuality. Historically linked to royalty and mysticism, it conveys a sense of ambition, uniqueness, and deep thinking. It’s no surprise that many creatives and visionaries gravitate toward this color—it embodies both imagination and transformation. In embracing the Purple Shirt Guy identity, I am not just making a stylistic choice but aligning with the artistic and expressive power that the color symbolizes.

This is more than just a signature look—it’s a statement. Purple Shirt Guy is here to stay.

 

MASKED

MASKED: The Art of Cosplay – A Unique Cosplay Artbook Project

Cosplay is more than just costumes – it’s an art form, a passion, and a way to step into a world of imagination. With MASKED, we’re pushing the boundaries of what a cosplay artbook can be, blending photography, creativity, and storytelling to create something extraordinary. This 280-page premium artbook features 20 models (19 talented cosplayers and one non-cosplay model), showcasing intricate costumes, breathtaking photography, and the depth of character that cosplay embodies.

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Why MASKED Stands Out

MASKED isn’t your typical cosplay photobook. Inspired by Japanese idol artbooks, we’ve taken the concept of a portrait collection and elevated it to the level of fine art. These pages aren’t just photographs – they’re carefully composed visual narratives, with every frame capturing the essence of the character and the cosplayer’s vision.

This isn’t our first venture into this realm. MASKED builds on the success of our first cosplay portrait book, DRESSED, which featured 10 cosplayers over 234 pages. Now, with double the models and 280 pages, MASKED is an upgrade in every sense – more talent, more artistry, and more passion.

A Glimpse Behind the Mask

Cosplay is about transformation, stepping into a new identity, and bringing fictional worlds to life. The title MASKED delves into this transformative power, exploring the idea of not just physical masks but the metaphorical masks we all wear. Cosplayers embody traits they admire or wish to express, creating personas that often reveal more about themselves than they conceal.

This project is deeply personal to me as both a photographer and a former cosplayer. My own journey began in 2004, participating in and eventually hosting cosplay competitions, and it has remained a central part of my life ever since. MASKED reflects my connection to the community and my desire to showcase its artistry in the most professional, captivating way possible.

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Why This Project Matters

Cosplay is a global phenomenon, but the way it’s documented doesn’t always match the skill and artistry involved. In Japan, idols – often including cosplayers – are celebrated with beautifully designed artbooks, bridging the gap between fandom and fine art. In Germany and beyond, this level of recognition is rare, and MASKED seeks to fill that gap.

Every photo in this book is meticulously crafted, from the composition and lighting to the layout and design. The result is an artbook that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with high-end fashion collections, fine art photography, and museum-quality works.

A Limited-Edition Collectible

This isn’t a mass-produced project. MASKED is a limited-edition release, making it a rare and valuable collectible for fans of cosplay, photography, and art. With only a small number of copies available, this is your chance to own a piece of cosplay history.

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Meet the Team

This project wouldn’t be possible without an incredible team of 21 people – 20 models and myself as the photographer. The team includes 19 cosplayers and one non-cosplay model, ranging in age from 18 to 38, representing a wide variety of fandoms from games, anime, manga, and more. Each individual brings their unique creativity and passion, making MASKED a true collaboration.

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My Journey as a Photographer

Over the past two decades, I’ve honed my skills as a professional photographer, focusing on landscapes, portraits, and cosplay. My previous works include two Japan-themed photobooks:

• "Japanese Castles" (日本の城 – Nihon no Shiro): A detailed exploration of Japan’s historic castles.
• "Japan – Black White" (日本 – 黒白 – Nihon – Kuro Shiro): A hybrid of photography, travel anecdotes, and guidebook inspiration.

MASKED brings together all my passions – cosplay, photography, and Japanese culture – into one ambitious project.

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Join the Journey

MASKED is more than just a book – it’s a celebration of creativity, identity, and the global cosplay community. By supporting this project, you’re not just purchasing an artbook; you’re helping to elevate cosplay to the realm of fine art and supporting independent creators who pour their hearts into their work.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unique project. Limited editions sell out fast, so secure your copy of MASKED today and experience the artistry of cosplay like never before.

Japan in 2025?

Will I be able to get to Japan this year?

A Glimpse Ahead: Autumn Adventures in Japan and Reflections on 2024

As the vibrant colors of autumn start painting the landscapes in crimson and gold, I can’t help but dream about a possible Japan trip during Momiji season. The idea of strolling under canopies of fiery red maple leaves and exploring historic landmarks fills me with excitement. While plans are still tentative and depend on financial considerations, the allure of a “photo vacation” to gather material for upcoming Japan photobooks, hopefully releasing my planned Top 75 Japan Travel Guide,before, maybe during Summer to be an inspiration for others helping to plan their trips.

Reflecting on 2024: An Epic 84-Day Journey

Looking back at 2024, I’m reminded of the whirlwind 84-day adventure through Japan, a journey packed with incredible destinations and unique experiences. Some highlights include:

• Matsue-jō (Matsue Castle) – One of Japan's few remaining original castles, its charm and history left a lasting impression.

• Kumamoto-jō – Majestic and resilient, it still stands strong despite the damage from the 2016 earthquake. Nearby, I visited the shrine with the smallest torii gate—and, thankfully, managed to avoid getting stuck!

• Okayama-jō – A striking blend of history and elegance, it added a touch of sophistication to the trip.

• Fushimi-jō – A yearly ritual for me, even though it’s now more of a memory than an active cultural site, having once been part of the Castleland amusement park.

Osaka: My Base of Operations

Osaka served as my base during the trip—a dynamic city that never disappoints. Between explorations of the iconic Osaka-jō and the buzzing streets of Namba and Den-Den Town, I embarked on countless successful "raids."

Shopping sprees in retro-game treasure troves like Surugaya were a major highlight. Hunting for rare boxed copies, Pokémon cards, and the occasional figurine felt like a modern-day adventure. Speaking of Pokémon cards, the international boom is undeniable. They’ve become the hot commodity for alternative investments, even surpassing LEGO in popularity due to their space efficiency and rapid value appreciation. Unfortunately, this boom has attracted scalpers, driving up prices dramatically—even in Japan. Games that I once bought for 500–1,200 yen (around €4–10) back in 2015/2016 now fetch five to thirty times those prices.

Dreaming of 2025 and further trips

Looking forward, my wish list for the next Japan trips includes:

• Drones and Castles: Capturing breathtaking aerial footage of landmarks like Goryokaku in Hakodate, Himeji Castle, Nagoya Castle, and Matsumoto Castle. The latter holds a special place in my heart, as Matsumoto was my home for half a year during my exchange semester at Shinshu University in 2022.
• Shikoku Pilgrimage: While my next attempt at the Shikoku pilgrimage will likely have to wait until spring 2027, it remains a cherished goal.

Whether this year brings the opportunity for a full-fledged "photo vacation" remains to be seen, but I’m hopeful. Beyond the photography and exploration, it’s these trips that fuel my creative projects and deepen my connection to Japan.

What’s Next?

For now, I’ll keep planning, dreaming, and saving, with the hope that 2025 will bring new stories, unforgettable moments, and fresh material for my upcoming guides. Until then, the vibrant memories of 2024 will keep me inspired.

What are your autumn travel dreams? Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear!

The GIFT - Suzuki Suzumi

In her debut novel Die Gabe, sociologist Suzuki Suzumi tells the story of a mother and daughter whose relationship is marked by distance, misunderstanding, and emotional detachment. Set in Tokyo’s red-light district, the novel follows the daughter’s daily life in the weeks leading up to her mother’s death. Rather than depicting a deep emotional reconciliation, the story instead presents a fragmented narrative of two women forced into close proximity without ever truly bridging the emotional gap between them.

The mother, a poet battling terminal cancer, has spent much of her life writing and publishing poetry. As she nears the end of her life, she wishes to write one last poem but finds it impossible to do so in the sterile environment of the hospital. Seeking inspiration, she moves in with her daughter, who works as a hostess in a nightclub. However, this move is not a sign of emotional closeness, nor is it driven by a desire to reconnect—it is purely a practical decision. While it is common in Japan for aging parents to move in with their children, in this case, the mother’s decision is motivated only by her desire to complete her final work.

The daughter’s job as a hostess involves entertaining male customers, encouraging them to drink, and occasionally having sex with them—though the novel makes it clear that this is not part of her official job description. The mother disapproves of her daughter’s profession, but rather than expressing her disappointment directly or seeking to understand her daughter’s life, she simply maintains a cold distance. This reinforces the emotional divide between them, making their shared living situation feel more like an obligation than an opportunity for connection.

Although one might expect the mother’s illness and their forced cohabitation to serve as a catalyst for emotional growth or reconciliation, no such development occurs. The novel does not depict heartfelt conversations, reconciliations, or a growing understanding between mother and daughter. Instead, their relationship remains one of silent coexistence, where their only real connection is the mother’s illness itself. The narrative even creates the impression of a three-way relationship: mother, daughter, and disease. However, even as the mother’s condition worsens, their interactions remain distant and lack warmth or genuine affection.

Eventually, the mother becomes too weak to stay in her daughter’s apartment and returns to the hospital. This marks yet another missed opportunity for emotional resolution. There is no grand moment of realization, no shift in their dynamic—only the continuation of their mutual detachment.

Structurally, the novel is fragmented and often feels disjointed. It jumps between different aspects of the daughter’s life, including her work at the club, her occasional visits to the hospital, and mundane daily activities. The protagonist’s thoughts are scattered, making it feel as if the reader is wandering through Tokyo’s Kabukichō district, observing fleeting moments without a clear narrative thread. The book reads more like the diary of a young woman struggling with depression and low self-worth than a carefully structured novel with a clear emotional arc.

Despite its setting in Tokyo’s red-light district, Die Gabe does not offer deep social commentary. While it briefly touches on topics such as hostess culture, social stigmas, and the association of tattoos with the Yakuza, it does so in a superficial way. The protagonist has accepted her life in the “water trade” (the Japanese term for jobs in bars and entertainment establishments), showing no motivation to leave it or critically reflect on her situation. The novel does not explore the challenges of women in the industry or the societal prejudices they face. Instead, it merely references these elements without providing meaningful insights, making it feel as if the author has observed the world of hostesses from a distance rather than truly immersing herself in it.

In fact, the story could take place almost anywhere. If one were to remove the Japanese cultural references, the plot would be just as believable in another city—perhaps Hamburg’s Reeperbahn or another red-light district. The location, the profession, and even the country itself feel largely irrelevant to the central narrative.

Even the title, Die Gabe (translated as The Gift), remains ambiguous. The book never clarifies what the “gift” refers to—whether it is the final poem the mother wishes to write, the unspoken bond between mother and daughter, or something else entirely. Readers searching for a clear thematic throughline may be left unsatisfied.

Ultimately, Die Gabe is a novel that lacks a strong emotional core. It presents a mother and daughter who remain distant until the very end, offering no real development in their relationship. Without a compelling dramatic arc or deep character growth, the novel feels more like a collection of loosely connected diary entries than a cohesive, impactful story.

Cosplay Season 2025

Kicking Off the Cosplay Year 2025: A Celebration of Creativity and Collaboration

The wait is over—the cosplay season 2025 has officially begun! For photographers, cosplayers, and fans alike, it’s the time of year when creativity thrives, connections deepen, and countless unforgettable moments come to life. Whether at bustling conventions, intimate private shoots, or through long-term projects, this year promises to be full of opportunities to create, inspire, and experiment.

A Year of Collaboration and Discovery

As a photographer, the start of a new season always feels like a fresh canvas. It’s a chance to reconnect with familiar faces and forge new connections. There’s something truly special about working with cosplayers—each shoot is a unique collaboration, where their artistry and dedication combine with my vision behind the lens.

This year, I’m looking forward to shooting with longtime friends and diving into new projects with cosplayers I’ve yet to meet. Each encounter brings fresh energy and inspiration, and I can’t wait to see what amazing concepts we’ll bring to life together.

The 2025 Event Highlights

The first half of 2025 is already shaping up to be packed with exciting events for cosplayers and photographers alike. While the full schedule is still evolving, here are just a few highlights that have caught my eye:

• Mag-C in Erfurt: A cozy yet vibrant convention that’s perfect for debuting new ideas and connecting with fellow creators.
• Leipziger Buchmesse: A haven for creativity, this event is always a highlight. From fantastical costumes to literary-inspired concepts, it offers endless opportunities for unique photography.
• ComicPark in Erfurt: This outdoor event blends nature with cosplay, creating a one-of-a-kind setting for stunning portraits.
• Private Shoots: Beyond conventions, private shoots will continue to be a cornerstone of my year. Whether planned in advance or decided on a whim, these sessions allow for creative freedom and often yield some of my most cherished images.

Bringing Stories to Life Through Photography

Cosplay photography is more than just capturing costumes—it’s about storytelling. With every shoot, I strive to bring out the personality of the cosplayer, the essence of their character, and the passion behind their craft. In 2025, I’m excited to explore even more creative approaches to bring these stories to life:

• Innovative Lighting and Effects: I’ll be using tools like portable LED setups, colored gels, and fog machines to create immersive atmospheres and dramatic effects.
• Dynamic Storytelling: Movement and action will play a big role in my shoots this year. Whether it’s capturing a flowing cape or a dramatic pose, I want every image to feel alive.
• Experimentation with New Techniques: From trying out different lenses to enhancing my post-production skills, this year is all about growth. I want each photo to not only capture a moment but also evoke emotion and wonder.

Personal Projects: The Journey Continues

This year isn’t just about conventions—it’s also about continuing my passion for long-term projects. One of my most ambitious endeavors has been my Cosplay Portrait series, which began with DRESSED and evolved into MASKED:.

DRESSED: The Beginning

DRESSED was my first cosplay artbook, featuring 10 cosplayers across 234 pages. It celebrated the craftsmanship and dedication of the cosplay community, showcasing stunning portraits and the artistry behind each costume.

MASKED: Taking Cosplay to the Next Level

Building on DRESSED, MASKED pushed the boundaries of what a cosplay artbook can be. This 280-page premium collection features 20 models (19 cosplayers and one non-cosplay model), blending breathtaking photography with the essence of character transformation. Inspired by Japanese idol artbooks, MASKED elevates cosplay photography to the realm of fine art.

The title MASKED explores not only the literal masks in cosplay but also the metaphorical ones we wear, delving into the transformative power of this art form. For me, this project is deeply personal, reflecting my journey as a photographer and my connection to the cosplay community.

What’s Next?

In 2025, I’m thrilled to announce that a third installment in this series is in development. While details are still under wraps, the new book will continue to celebrate the artistry, passion, and individuality of the global cosplay community.

Embracing Spontaneity

While long-term projects and planned shoots are exciting, some of the most magical moments in cosplay photography happen spontaneously. A sudden change of light, an unexpected idea, or a last-minute shoot can lead to incredible results. In 2025, I’m embracing this spontaneity, ready to adapt and experiment whenever inspiration strikes.

A Year of Creativity and Connection

For photographers and cosplayers alike, the 2025 season is full of potential. It’s a time to create, innovate, and share our passions with the world. Whether it’s through the lens of a camera, the details of a handcrafted costume, or the bonds formed at events and shoots, this year promises to be unforgettable.

I’m looking forward to every moment—from the first convention to the quiet post-processing hours where images come to life. Here’s to a season filled with creativity, collaboration, and countless memories. See you at the next event—or perhaps behind the lens of my camera!