Things You Should Know: The Hanfu Photoshoot in Xi’an.
Reaching out.
To reach out to the photographer, all you have to do is send him a message on Instagram that you’re interested in a photoshoot, and he’ll send you his WeChat information (everything is done through WeChat so you will need it. Or, directly message him on WeChat using the QR on the left. You can also search for his WeChat ID: Tcy8298. If you mention that Elliott sent you, he can offer you a 10% discount!
Pricing.
All packages come with the hanfu rental and accessories, make-up and styling for a minimum of an hour, and a minimum of two hours of shooting with a team. They have multiple make-up studios they partner with so you may go to the one that we didn’t go to.
The entrance fee (¥54/person) is not included, as well as any transportation.
⚠️ To lock in your date, you’ll need to put down a non-refundable ¥200 deposit per person/
The packages they offer.
Experience edition:
30 raws + 6 retouched - ¥1,099 (~$160 USD)
Advanced edition (the one I chose):
50 raws + 9 retouched - ¥1,499 (~$215 USD)
Couples edition:
50 raws + 9 retouched - ¥2,799 (~$415 USD)
Custom photoshoot:
80 raws + 15 retouched. 5-to-1 service with a director, make-up director, retouching director, and a short video - ¥4,999 (~$740 USD)
Hair and make-up.
A few days before the shoot, the photographer added us to a group chat with the HMU team. The night before, they sent over the address and the time. When we got there, the building looked a bit sketchy, but it was fine. Before the process, we took a look at the sample images, and based off of the style we wanted, they selected the outfit and accessories. They were very fast and efficient, as it took about an hour and a half for everything. The only note is that the hair extensions were heavy, which can be a problem for those with neck pain. Other than that, We have nothing but positive words for the hair and make-up team! During the process, the photographer sent us a location for where to meet, which was about half an hour away from the make-up studio. In WeChat, you can hit the link and select “Get a Ride”, or go to the three dots, choose “Copy Location Info”, and paste it into Didi.
The photoshoot.
Once we got to the North Gate, we met the photographer and the team. We went to get our entrance tickets, as it’s a separate cost (54 RMB/$8 USD). Don’t forget to bring your passport! When we got inside, we were surprised by the number of photoshoots happening.
We shot about three hours which was more than what we paid for which was nice. They brought all sorts of props such as swords, an instrument, and a bow and arrow. We did eight poses or so, based on the inspo I shared with the photographer beforehand.
We went in March and it was a bit cold, so keep that in mind if you are planing to go during the spring.
For those that may not be used to Chinese culture, just be aware that the photographer/team may touch you when adjusting things, but overall they are very professional and kind, as most Chinese people are. Just remember that there are cultural differences!
Once the photoshoot was done, they contacted the hair and make-up team to come collect the hanfu and accessories.
The delivery.
We got the initial selects within 24 hours, and the photographer was able to deliver it via Google Drive. These are unedited, so we only were looking for facial expressions and overall look, not distraction elements/composition as that can be fixed in post. We couldn’t keep our selection down to nine, so we ended up buying two more at a rate of 80 RMB/image ($12 USD).
I sent him the list of the file names (screenshots also work) of the images we wanted, and it took about two weeks to get the fully processed images. We loved them! Th only note is that I do think it leans a bit green in the shadows, but that’s entirely on me as I didn’t specify what type of editing style I wanted. If you have a look you’re going for, make sure to send screenshots (you can use his Instagram as reference) of the editing you like before his team gets started.
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If you’re interseted in booking, don’t forget to mention my name Elliott to the photographer to save 10%! If you want more guide and tips for China, you can subscribe to my monthly newsletter (coming soon).