AnimeJapan 2017 was a visual playground of cosplay, intricate models, and larger-than-life characters. For a photographer like me, it wasn’t just an event. It was a collection of unforgettable moments, lessons learned, and yes, a few regrets. Join me as I revisit the experience.
There were many great things to shoot – stage events, models (both real and plastic), and robots. The halls overflowed with people. Many of them were cosplayers who had come dressed as their favorite characters.
I messed up with the Tachikoma
A few things got my attention, one of which was Tachikoma. While looking it up on the internet, I found it came from the anime Ghost in the Shell. It lacked weapons but could move, respond to commands, and ask questions. I got the feeling it was an oversized Aibo robot dog that Sony made a long time ago. But this was much bigger and more advanced.
I kicked myself when I got home as I found I didn’t have a picture of it. Years later, I’m still kicking myself for that mistake. It’s one of my many photo regrets.
Bandai models and Yamato murals
The Bandai area was awesome. They had a live mural painting of Space Battleship Yamato. Godzilla was also at two booths. And there were some great-looking plastic models. Most were very sexy and scantily clad girls. Everything was done well with attention to detail.
Capturing models and cosplay
The real models of AnimeJapan 2017 were great, too. All of them were very friendly, beautiful, and accommodating with photographs. They had a great work ethic.
Photography tips for AnimeJapan
- The venue is quite dark, so take a flash. If you don’t have one, boost your ISO and take the fastest lens you have.
- Some displays will be marked “No photos”, respect that.
- There is a cosplay area outside, head there to interact with those people.
- Be nice to the models. Even if you don’t speak Japanese, use gestures and easy English to get what you need. But take the biggest smile you have, as that always gets a good response.
- AnimeJapan is all about what Japan loves, anime, manga, and cosplay. It will be crowded, so be patient when waiting for your shots.
“Kakomi” (photography etiquette)
In Japan, there is a specific way people photograph cosplayers called a “Kakomi” (circle). Photographers often form a semi-circle around a cosplayer. You wait for your turn, make eye contact, and the cosplayer will look directly at your lens for a few frames. In this situation, don’t hesitate, as your chance will be gone in a short time.
Titan Season 2 booth
If I had to judge the best booth? I would have voted for Attack on Titan: Season Two. It was big. At the time, I didn’t know anything about its massive model, but it looked cool. I later found out it chased and ate humans!
Where was AnimeJapan 2017 held?
It was Tokyo Big Sight, a huge convention/exhibit center. You can read more about that building. It was also one of the last events I shot with my Pentax K-3. I was about to head into a completely new camera system.
Have you ever attended AnimeJapan? Tell us about it in the comments below. All questions and comments are welcome.
AnimeJapan 2017 attendance
145, 453
My photography gear for this shoot
- Camera body: Fujifilm X-T2
- Lens: Fujifilm XF 16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR
Editor’s note: While these photos are from 2017, AnimeJapan continues to be held annually every March at Tokyo Big Sight. If you’re planning a photography trip, check the official [AnimeJapan website] for the latest dates.
Nearby photo spots
If you are looking for some nearby photospots, check out:
- Gundam RX-0 Unicorn statue at Diver City mall
- Rainbow Bridge
