UlasanAnime.com – This review delves into the visual presentation and individual appeal of the members of Sphere, a popular Japanese voice actress unit, particularly in the context of their photo book, “Tentai Kansoku.” While expressing deep respect for their professional abilities as entertainers, the author offers some candid observations about each member’s presence and appeal in photographs.
The author notes that Ayahi Takagaki, while essential to Sphere’s overall sound and visual harmony, doesn’t seem to bring a unique appeal that directly resonates with the target audience. Despite this, there are specific images in “Tentai Kansoku” where Ayahi looks surprisingly good, showcasing a side the author hadn’t previously seen, particularly in the initial sections of the book.
The discussion then touches on the effect of glasses, with the author suggesting that while they can enhance the appeal of those with less striking features, they don’t seem to flatter Aki Takagi as much. The general sentiment is that for voice actresses, glasses are often a safe choice that can improve their visual presentation.
Minako Kotobuki is highlighted as having the most expressive face in photographs, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions. Haruka Tomatsu is mentioned as occasionally surpassing this, but generally, the other members are described as merely “pretty” in their photos.
However, when considering the overall package and performance, Haruka Tomatsu is deemed the strongest contender. The author speculates that physical stature, particularly height, can be a disadvantage for models, noting that both Minako and Ayahi are on the shorter side, even by Japanese standards.
Aki Takagi’s height is seen as an advantage in some shots, providing a balance that many voice actresses lack. Yet, the author suggests she might look better when not overly emphasizing her height.
Similarly, Haruka Tomatsu’s attempts to pose in ways that highlight her height are not always successful, based on scans of her photo books. The author believes her efforts in this regard don’t often yield the desired results.
The “prom shots” are singled out as the best overall set within the photo book, suggesting a particular theme or style that worked exceptionally well for the group.
Minako Kotobuki’s twin-tail shots in school uniforms are also praised, with a specific appreciation for her hairstyle in those particular images.
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A well-known picture of Haruka Tomatsu appearing calm in a white dress is cited as an example of how simplicity can be very effective, leading to a strong visual impact.
Ayahi Takagaki’s kimono shot is described humorously, with the author finding it quite amusing. This observation is paired with the belief that she looks significantly better in candid photographs.
The author expresses a general appreciation for musicians and entertainers releasing photo albums or books that document their career, including concert goods, outfits, and live performance pictures, finding them to be a valuable and enjoyable addition for fans.
The title of the book, “Tentai Kansoku,” is particularly liked by the author. It is felt to be a possible tribute to astronomical references, reminiscent of “Sora no Manimani,” one of the earlier anime Sphere was associated with.
The review concludes with a discussion of a promotional image, not from the book itself, but from a Sphere promotional set released during the year. This image depicts the girls in a more natural, yet posed, setting, requiring them to express themselves joyfully.
The author analyzes the expressions in this particular photo. Haruka Tomatsu’s strength as an actress is seen to shine through, as she effectively conveys a natural and fun demeanor. Aki Takagi also passes this test due to her consistently natural appearance.
Minako Kotobuki is described as being somewhat in the middle, a state that might be natural for her given her perceived inability to act, as evidenced in her film work. Ayahi Takagaki, while performing the correct actions, appears to be faking her expression. The author attributes this to the human ability to detect genuine emotion, particularly in the eyes and the subtle movements of facial muscles during a smile, suggesting that Ayahi’s expression lacks this crucial element.
