There are plenty of cosplayers out there choosing to cosplay as Princess Zelda and it’s not hard to understand why. She’s often friendly, wears pretty dresses, and is one of the most important characters in the Zelda games, after all. Cosplayer Hailey Yikes is one of many who had chosen to portray the latest incarnation of the princess in her white ceremonial dress and gold jewelry as accessories. The costume looks stunning on her in Mallory’s photograph, but there’s a small additional detail which makes the picture go from stunning to divine.
The small detail I’m talking about is the halo around Hailey’s head which, in my opinion, takes the photograph to another level. If anyone would be unfamiliar with Princess Zelda, they can still understand the importance of her character with one single glance. A halo is not something we usually associate with the princess, but it makes sense as halos represent holiness. Princess Zelda carries the spirit of Goddess Hylia within her, so who else would be more suitable to pose with a halo than her?
The pose itself is not overly complex, but complexity isn’t necessary, and a powerful pose wouldn’t suit Zelda while wearing her ceremonial dress. The simplicity is what makes the portrait so striking. With hands lightly placed together in a gentle prayer, a peaceful expression on her face, and a halo around her golden hair, we understand exactly who this character is, what her role is, and why she’s important. With a white dress and golden details, photographer Mallory captures the light cleverly by letting Hailey pose in front of a dark green hedge. They create a contrast that makes her stand out and radiate.
The halo reminds me of Russian religious icon portraits and ancient mosaics, and I think a painting of the princess with a halo would suit her very well to symbolize the power that resides inside of her. If Mallory’s photo of Hailey’s Princess Zelda would exist in Hyrule, I think it would be a framed painting hanging in Hyrule Castle for future Hylians to observe and admire. Because who wouldn’t stop and take a moment to study a portrait as stunning as this picture? I know I would.
