In the Long Run Designs

Mike here. Whenever I see any of ’s amazing Baldur’s Gate cosplays, it makes me want to start another playthrough. What do we think? Tavern brawler monk, this run? Or finally time for a Dark Urge?

Mike here. I somehow neglected to post this photo of .love.of.serendipity in her truly stunning cosplay of Anne Wheeler from The Greatest Showman, captured way back in January at a Costume and Camera event. Abby was very patient with me as I dialed in the lighting, and still absolutely nailed the pose and facial expression.

Mike here, with my sixteenth semi-annual* Portfolio Review. I started this project in 2018 as a way to see how I’ve grown as a costume/cosplay photographer. As of today, I consider these to be the nine best costume-related photos I’ve ever taken (swipe to see the full images).

So. It’s actually been a year since my last one of these reviews. I skipped December ‘25 for a few reasons. I couldn’t really find any changes from the June ‘25 edition I wanted to make, partially because I was feeling kinda “meh” (not terrible, just “meh”) about my photography work in the back half of last year. Plus, at the end of the year that was 2025, I wasn’t feeling too celebratory or reflective. This year, I’m working on turning things around. A good con season and a few great events have generated a bunch of new work I’m genuinely pleased with (lots of turnover in the portfolio!), and I’m trying to approach things with a more positive outlook. Here’s hoping I maintain this momentum through the rest of the year!

Many thanks to models/costumers (Kels), , , , (times 3!), and, of course, Gloria (who is featured in three of these images, edited all of them, and served as a lighting assistant, stylist, model coach, expert advisor, and generally awesome partner)! (As always, check the first comment for my nerdy statistical breakdowns.)

Gloria here, sharing a lovely photo by demingwan (IG) from the most recent Costume and Camera event at the Big Barn 1810. I was excited to wear a new regency dress (I made it several years ago but had never brought it out for an event) and use my spinning wheel!