Kixkillradio

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Name: Sheng Gonzales, also known as Kixkillradio
Experience: I started figure photography in 2010, months after I purchased my first figure.

TOM: How did you get into photographing figures?
Sheng: I had been interested in photography ever since I started figure collecting. I was a fan of figure related websites like Kodomut and HappySoda that take lovely shots of their collectibles. Although, at that time I didn’t have a decent camera or even have the skills. The only camera I had was a mobile camera, but it didn’t stop me from photographing my figures. I want to bring them to life and bring emotions to them in a creative way. I want a picture that tells a story. In 2011, I decided to buy my first ever DSLR.

TOM: What kind of equipment do you use?
Sheng: I use a Canon 60d. I typically use a 50mm f/1.8 lens, which is pretty good. I don’t mind physically moving to get closer or further from the subject. I switch to the standard kit lens that came with the camera only when I don’t have much space to move around. Tripod and table lamps are very helpful in achieving the shot that I want, especially in indoor photography. I use Adobe Lightroom and CS5 for minor editing and retouches.

TOM: How many figures do you currently have?
Sheng: I currently have 105 including Nendoroids, other chibis, figmas, scale figures, and Gunpla.

TOM: Which figure that you own is your favorite?
Sheng: That’s a tough one since I mostly buy my favorite anime characters, but the title goes to Nendoroid Azunyan. I’m a fan of *K-On* and she’s loaded with cuteness and coolness with that guitar. Though I haven’t properly photographed her with a guitar yet.
http://otakumode.com/photo/218915450820493312/1

TOM: How long does it usually take you to set up and photograph your work?
Sheng: It depends on the concept and the setting. If the concept requires many props and it’s outdoors, it usually takes three hours or more. I also have to check the weather because natural lighting produces great wonders for the pictures.

TOM: Do you make any props yourself?
Sheng: Aside from the miniature food and furniture that I buy, I also make my own props and build sets to make it look more natural.

TOM: Which photo is your favorite?
Sheng: My favorite is Super Sonico in a Recording Studio simply because it brings out a part of my personality that not everyone knows about.
http://otakumode.com/photo/259408860089942016/4

TOM: Which photo did you fuss over the most?
Sheng: The Hakase and Nano’s Everyday Life photos. I love the anime, and their Nendoroids are just too cute, so I built a set with props similar to the scene. I even re-watched the anime to give me more ideas so I could fill the picture with the characters’ emotions.
http://otakumode.com/photo/273267159667310592/1

TOM: Which photo has been the most well received?
Sheng: I think it’s Azunyan’s Birthday Party. This photo has been featured on different sites. It has also received a Daily Deviation award because of the time and detail that I put into it. http://otakumode.com/photo/234029516895289344/1

TOM: How do you come up with the ideas for your photos?
Sheng: Sometimes the ideas just pop out of the blue, but I mostly get ideas from anime, Japanese culture, or anything a normal human being would do and love to experience.

TOM: What is the most difficult part of figure photography?
Sheng: The most challenging part I usually encounter in figure photography is the lighting. I always think of the right lighting to evoke a certain mood. The most difficult part that tests my patience is standing Nendoroids up by using pins or hook wires instead of their stands. I try to avoid using their stands because they usually get in the way of the composition I am aiming for.

TOM: Is there anything you would like to say to your fans on TokyoOtakuMode?
Sheng: Thank you for the love and support! I will continue to do my best in creating cute figure photos for you to enjoy!

Check out our picture collection of the talented Sheng Kixkillradio's work, and don’t forget to SUKI her! Keep it here for even more interviews with some of the most prominent creators in the otaku world!
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