The other day, my Patreon account was unfortunately removed. I sincerely apologize for the delay in informing you. Some time has already passed, so I’m not sure how many of you will end up reading this, but I hope it reaches those it needs to.
The reason for the account removal was due to posting R-18 illustrations of characters who were considered to appear underage (such as Lillie or Shion Murasaki). Up until now, as long as revenue was being generated, it was possible to comply with warnings by making corrections and continue. However, since I had paused the billing cycle due to health issues, I understand that this time my account was removed without any prior warning. In fact, just before stopping the billing, I had received a warning, made corrections, and was allowed to continue.
I was aware, at least intuitively, that larger accounts on Patreon were often given more leeway, while accounts without active revenue were removed more quickly. But I didn’t think it through thoroughly when I paused billing this time.
It was a regrettable and rather disgraceful way for things to end, and I deeply apologize to everyone who had supported me. At the same time, I’ve come to strongly realize that it was thanks to all of your support that I was able to continue this far. I’m truly grateful to have made it this far.
Until recently, I had been appealing for account reinstatement, but it seems that won’t be possible. I had been receiving repeated warnings, so perhaps this was simply the right time to let go.
In the future, when I feel better, I plan to resume posting on pixiv. There are still works I haven’t uploaded to pixiv or BOOTH, so I’ll probably start with those. Nothing is firmly decided yet, but I think I’ll take a more hobby-like approach and post the illustrations or articles I want to make on pixiv or FANBOX.
For those who are supporting me on FANBOX, I truly appreciate it and will use those funds for future creative work.
What saddens me most is that, with everything on Patreon having been wiped clean, I’ve lost the connection with the many supporters I had there. I remember most of the usernames of the people who supported me on Patreon, so if you were one of them and would like the past zip files or posts, please feel free to send me a message on pixiv with your Patreon username. I’ll do my best to respond individually.
My account was deleted before I could reply to many comments, but the kind messages I received when I said I needed to rest due to health issues really encouraged me. Thank you so much for that.
Thanks to prioritizing rest and visiting the doctor, my condition has improved quite a bit. I’m sorry for any worry I may have caused.
Because of all of you who supported me, I was able to spend a truly meaningful and valuable time. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
If you continue to watch over me kindly, there’s nothing that would make me happier. Please feel free to contact me if anything comes up.
Please note that the following is a machine translation, so I apologize if there are any strange expressions.
As someone born and raised in a modern city, I always thought Ash and his friends' journey was purely fictional. The idea of kids traveling for days with just a small backpack seemed implausible.
As time passed and I became an avid traveler, I grew up as a backpacker. I stopped watching Pokémon and gradually pushed Ash to the back of my mind, but I feel that Pokémon and Ash were the sources of my love for travel.
As an adult, I expanded my knowledge and discovered that many things I thought were fictional actually exist in reality. I realized that journeys like Ash’s are real and easily accessible.
Long-distance Hiking
I believe Ash's journey is akin to what's known as long-distance hiking. In simple terms, it's a journey where you travel long distances on foot.
In the 1990s, an approach and philosophy that focused on lightweight and simplicity emerged among those walking the PCT (Pacific Crest Trail) in the U.S., diverging from the norms of long-distance hiking at the time.
Back then, only a select few people achieved lightweight and simplicity using homemade gear. Gradually, manufacturers began producing equipment, further spreading this approach and philosophy. This new wave of lightweight hiking continues to evolve to this day, fueled by advancements in material technology.
The original Pokémon anime began in 1997, right after this new approach was born.
(Note: The term "lightweight and simple approach and philosophy" is often referred to as ultralight (UL) hiking. I find it somewhat like a religion in a good way, and interpretations vary among people. My understanding is also incomplete, but it can be roughly summarized as "by making everything as light and simple as possible, you can travel farther and be closer to nature." It's not just about reducing weight but also about simplifying gear and improvising to manage without certain items, which is particularly useful for long-distance hiking over several months. You could think of it as an outdoor version of minimalism. For instance, cutting all tags off to save even a gram or wearing underwear in various ways to extend usage (although in reality, people often don’t change due to lack of social interactions). With this mindset, you can walk in nature for months with a backpack as small as Ash's. Generally, if the base weight of your gear is below 4.5kg, it's considered UL, though I personally think that in modern times, this benchmark isn’t as crucial. Due to various advancements, I feel that a base weight below 3kg is more in line with true UL.)
Ash's Gear
As of 2024, lightweight and simple gear is easily accessible, and information is widely shared. This makes it much easier to embark on long-distance hikes with gear similar to Ash’s.
I searched for websites that realistically analyze Ash's gear but only found this image. The fact that he has a mosquito coil suggests that there are mosquitoes in the Pokémon world...
Ash and his friends always wear the same outfits because they don’t carry spare clothes, except for underwear.
Apart from the items shown in this image, I think Ash's backpack likely contains:
・Sleeping bag:
Pokémon characters are often depicted sleeping near a campfire with just a sleeping bag. While this might not be practical in rainy Japan, it’s more feasible in the dry regions of the western U.S., a practice known as cowboy camping. The setting of the original Pokémon anime resembles America, featuring places like Grand Canyon and Hollywood.
Essential for both mountaineering and long-distance hiking. According to UL hiking theory, a poncho tarp that doubles as rain gear and shelter is ideal. However, Ash is seen wearing a front-opening, long raincoat with sleeves. Perhaps he has a separate tarp or uses the raincoat as a shelter—this might just be an animation choice.
If he’s crossing snowy mountains, he probably doesn’t carry extra clothes. In reality, thorough preparation is necessary. Since he eats instant noodles, he must have equipment for carrying water and boiling it, as well as utensils. These days, super lightweight cooking gear is relatively inexpensive. After joining Brock, they likely share gear.
Other essentials: Light, map, compass, fire starter, and water purifier. Ash might sleep without a mat, but in reality, most of us need one.
The presence of Pokémon and Pokémon Centers in the anime world likely plays a significant role. Trainers probably receive subsidies, allowing them to stay at Pokémon Centers cheaply. With a relatively mild climate and regular food and water supplies, Ash’s gear setup isn’t vastly different from what we could use today for a similar journey.
Long Trails
Even with lightweight, compact gear, some might wonder where they can go on a journey like Ash’s. Do you have to go to America?
With the recent rise in popularity of hiking and long-distance hiking, many trails and courses have been developed in Japan. Long trails exist throughout Japan.
Many have heard of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, but there are long trails near you, too. Why not check them out? Even if you don’t walk long distances at once, you can enjoy them on day trips.
So, this blog was about how Ash’s journey is surprisingly realistic and doable today. Although, taking such a long break might still be a challenge in modern times. Thank you for reading this far!
(Recently, I was going to write about my week-long journey on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, but it got too lengthy, so I’ll save it for another time. Note: Camping is generally illegal in Japan. Collect information about places where it’s allowed and seek permission whenever possible. Especially on long trails, be considerate of the local communities. I met many foreigners on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, and those who tried camping said the police approached them (2 out of 2 I talked to). Communication and gathering information are key. You’ll probably come across regularly updated guidebooks. The pilgrimage is more cultural than natural, but many foreigners experiencing Japan for the first time choose it, so it might be a good recommendation for them.)
Please note that the following is a machine translation, so I apologize if there are any strange expressions.
To All My Supporters,
Thank you sincerely for your warm support. This year, I have been truly grateful for your help.
・Gratitude
Although my words of thanks may sound repetitive, I genuinely mean every one of them. To be more specific, here's what I'm particularly thankful for:
1) Being able to continue due to the support and viewership from many of you.
Thanks to you, I've managed to break even mid-way through my activities! The income is higher than I initially imagined, but so are the expenses, keeping me just about in the black. Naturally, I couldn't have continued if I were operating at a loss. I owe my ability to keep going to all of you.
2) The joy of receiving support funds was greater than I thought.
This point might be the main part of my gratitude. Merely breaking even wouldn't have been enough. Point 1 is about the numbers, but point 2 is about feelings.
I've had the fortunate opportunity to regularly exchange messages with some of you. Through these interactions, I've come to clearly feel that there are real people behind the support funds, making them more than just numbers to me. Everyone has been especially kind and wonderful, which makes me feel even more grateful. Although I haven't spoken much with many of you, I'm truly happy knowing that there are people out there who regularly 'like' my posts or have been supporting me for a long time, even if they don't interact often. Since my work is mostly fan creations, I understand that 95% of it is thanks to the content itself, but your warmth still means a lot to me.
・This Year's Goals and What I Want to Do Next Year
I aim to create something unique, unprecedented, and only achievable with AI. Keeping up with this year's posting pace would have been impossible for the hand-drawing version of myself, so in a way, I might be achieving that goal. However, I feel there's still more to explore.
AI is still a relatively new tool, so there are many more innovative ways to use it. I want to continue deepening my understanding of both the tool and myself. I believe "yidall's uniqueness" is slowly emerging, not just in my choice of tools and what I show, but also in writings like this. If you can sense that and feel like supporting me, nothing could make me happier.
AI image generation is bound to improve, making it easier for everyone to create the images they want. We're also heading towards a dramatically different future, possibly even reaching the Singularity. I hope to find and pursue something fundamental that remains unchanged even amidst these shifts.
Next year, I want to create something that causes a slight stir in the heart, a tiny ripple of emotion. It's similar to the excitement I mentioned this year, but now I imagine it more as a gentle wave or ripple in the heart. While it sounds grand to say "moving the heart," even a 0.0001 millimeter movement would be great. I use terms like "ripple" and "wave" because I believe these small movements can eventually lead to something big, serving as a catalyst for entirely different endeavors.
While I do like new things, I can't seem to escape the allure of doing the same old things. Perhaps I'm afraid of trying something new and being abandoned for it. I hope to embrace failure and try new things several times next year, and I'd appreciate your warm support in those moments.
・In Conclusion
I recently wrote about my wife's cancer diagnosis. At that time, she was rapidly losing weight and had difficulty walking, and both of us sort of accepted that she was dying. However, since starting treatment, she's gained weight, started walking with crutches, and is visibly getting better. Her hair is falling out, but the feeling of impending death has faded.
Thank you to everyone who offered warm words. I apologize for causing concern.
I had planned to make one more post this year, but the end-of-year rush got the better of me. I will resume posting by the first weekend of the new year! Looking forward to your continued support next year as well. Thank you for reading this lengthy update.
An English version follows the Japanese version.
支援者の皆さま
いつも温かいご支援ありがとうございます！
今回は先日行った第4回制作に関するアンケートの結果を共有させてください。
ご回答いただいた皆さま、ありがとうございました！
・おすすめの旅先
主に今後の投稿頻度やコンテンツ内容、活動場所の検討材料...
For those supporting on Patreon, you can download them from the usual zip file location here: https://linktr.ee/yidall
I plan to gradually provide high-resolution versions of illustrations from before July as well. If you have any other requests besides the resolution, feel free to contact me, and I'll consider accommodating them.
2. We're Conducting a Survey!
I'm currently running a request survey! It's planned to close around next weekend, so please participate soon if you haven’t yet （Patreon / FANBOX)
I've received several questions through the survey form, so I'll answer them here. Since it's a bit lengthy, I've put the responses at the end of this article.
3. Recent Updates
- After achieving my initial goals set in October, I felt a bit burned out, but I've recently set new goals for myself! Being quite competitive, these goals should help me maintain a steady posting routine.
- A big thank you for the likes on my regular Patreon posts! And a special thanks to those who recently joined and liked my past posts. Your likes is my main motivation and guide. Feel free to keep them coming!
- Upcoming Schedule
I'll be sending out continuous bonuses progressively from next week till the end of the month!
Also, I’ll be posting the travel log next weekend from the journey decided through the survey! Declaring this here pushes me to commit, so please hold me to it.
Thank you for reading this far! I look forward to your continued support.
yidall
4. Q&A
Q: Can we request characters from "Nijisanji" or "VSPo"! (Summary, 2 requests) → A: While Pokémon/Hololive are my priority, feel free to request characters from any content. However, please understand that I may not be able to create characters I'm unfamiliar with. I know some well-known characters from Nijisanji but am entirely clueless about "VSPo"! (If you educate me, I might recognize some characters).
Q: How about trying angry or crying expressions within a non-pitiable range? (Summary, 2 requests) → A: It's something I haven't done much, but I’ll give it a try at some point!
Q: Wouldn’t a girl doing cool, confident poses typically done by handsome boys be cute? It's a quirk of mine. → A: Absolutely cute. I love it too.
Please note that the following is a machine translation, so I apologize if there are any strange expressions.
Dear Supporters,
Thank you always for your warm support!
Recent updates:
I took a short break from posting for a while and went abroad for a refreshing vacation. I was prepared for a natural decrease in support during my absence, but to my gratitude, it hardly diminished. I can't quite express how thankful I am. It feels like a positive form of pressure, a sense of being expected. I felt an urgency in a good way, realizing I can't just keep not posting. To everyone who has continued their support, even during my breaks, I deeply thank you. It's because of you that I can keep posting.
On this break, I learned that sometimes the most meaningful vacation is the one where you do seemingly meaningless things. I simply lounged around, reading books overseas. It's been a while since I had such a refreshing break, so I highly recommend taking time off without any particular agenda.
Being away from my AI illustrations for a bit and revisiting them upon return made me realize how many great pieces were getting overlooked. I've attached a high-resolution version of one of my older works at the bottom. To regain my intuition, I'll be producing a lot more in the coming month. The phrase "throw enough at the wall and something will stick" might not sound very positive, but I personally believe it's important to increase the number of trials in many things. When it comes to photography, if I can get one great shot out of 1000, I'm happy. With AI illustrations, I aim to have one hit in every 10,000 or 100,000.
Continued Benefits Increase:
Sometimes, the illustrations I send as ongoing benefits to supporters are better than the ones I post occasionally. Honestly, it feels like a waste to just limit them to continued benefits. These benefits are exclusive, and in most cases, only you and I possess them. I hope you find value in that exclusivity. I considered providing these benefits in a posting format, but I wanted to keep them as something special for supporters, especially those who continue to support even when I'm not posting. It might be a bit cumbersome, but I'll continue to send them individually via messages.
I realized I've fallen behind and missed a month, so I'll send double the benefits this month.
For character-specific benefits, I wanted to keep it simple, so I made the request form straightforward. However, I've been getting hints for my posts from the requests and receiving motivating messages, so I'll occasionally do a separate request form. I can't promise to fulfill all requests, but I'll tackle them as and when I feel inclined.
Please access the application form via the links below:
Previously, posting was my top priority, and I created ongoing benefits in my spare time. Since I won't be posting daily anymore, I'll be focusing on creating and sending out the benefits. As for posts, I might not be able to maintain a daily schedule, but I'll pick up the pace.
Other Updates:
- I mentioned I'd be posting a travel blog, but it hasn't progressed much. I'm sorry. It's harder than I thought. I'll lower the bar and post a simple blog soon.
- Due to storage limits on Mega, I temporarily deleted posts from March, but I'll organize and re-upload them soon. Even if I use the support funds, I want to use them effectively.
- I'd love to do something Halloween-themed. I had many motifs I wanted to try for summer, but before I knew it, summer had passed.
Please note that the following is a machine translation, so I apologize if there are any strange expressions.
Dear Supporters,
Thank you always for your warm support.
I'm pleased to announce that in the wee hours of October 5th, I reached a milestone of 20,000 followers on Pixiv!
I owe all of this success to each and every one of you. Whether you've been supporting me from the very beginning or just recently started following my work, I truly appreciate it. It brings me immense joy to see those who first supported me on FANBOX or those who initially joined the Platinum Plan still following my work. The joy of receiving support, comments, and likes since I began posting has been overwhelming. It has encouraged me to show my support and appreciation more than ever. I've come to realize how delightful it is to support creators I love, making platforms like FANBOX and Patreon seem truly wonderful.
As I mentioned earlier, now that I've reached the 20,000 mark, I'm considering taking a break from daily posting. While daily posts have been beneficial, I feel the promotional effect is beginning to diminish. I want to focus on creating content that I'm passionate about and that you, my supporters, will love, without being overly concerned about numbers. Having posted daily for over half a year, not posting feels odd. I'm somewhat apprehensive that if I stop, I might never return to it. But I'm mustering the courage to take a pause.
However, to ensure you're not left in the dark, wondering when or if I'll ever post again, I've drafted a simple roadmap of what to expect in the coming days. (Please note, due to some unpredictable work this month, there might be slight delays.)
10/7 - 10/15:
Release of high-resolution versions of September's posts.
Sale compilation of September's posts on BOOTH.
Publishing the travel blog I've been postponing.
10/16 - 10/22:
Posting of last month's ongoing benefits.
Release of the form for the ongoing benefits application.
10/23 - 10/29:
Sequential production of this month's ongoing benefits.
In addition to the above, I plan to post content as and when I like. The middle of this month might be a bit hectic, but things should ease towards the end. I'm thinking of enhancing the ongoing benefits, so expect some experimentation and improvements!
So, that's the update for now. While there might be some fluctuations in the short term, my long-term commitment is to ensure that you all feel your support has been worthwhile. Thank you again for everything, and I'm looking forward to your continued support!
Please note that the following is a machine translation, so I apologize if there are any strange expressions.
Dear supporters,
Thank you always for your warm support!
I noticed that FANBOX has initiated a campaign called "#MyRecentFave." Since I haven't shared my recent favorites, I thought I'd jump in. Rest assured, there won't be any spoilers.
The DLC has been released! I know not everyone has played Pokémon SV itself, but I genuinely recommend it. While my absolute favorite, considering nostalgia, is Pokémon Gold/Silver HGSS, SV might be a close second due to its compelling story. Coraidon, the character, is just adorable. Despite the frequent discussions about bugs and event management issues, if you can look past these, it's a top-tier Pokémon game in my book. That being said, I haven’t tackled the DLC yet and am eager to do so.
This collaboration is right up my alley! Hatsune Miku's versatility never ceases to amaze me. If you're unaware of this project, I wanted to share it. Personally, I've always loved Take-san's Pokémon x Miku crossovers. I can't wait to hear the kind of music they produce.
Hololive
I've mainly been talking about Pokémon, and I've realized I haven’t touched much on Hololive. Though I haven’t been able to catch many live streams lately. I particularly loved Princess Luna's Electone streams and hope they become a regular feature. As for favorites, it's a toss-up between SubachokoLuna and PEBOT. The former feels perfectly designed, while the latter sits well with Shishiron.
I've been postponing multiple illustrations, so I hope to get to them once things settle down. If you have any recent recommendations or highlights, even short clips, please drop me a message.
Internal Pressure and Travel
A video I stumbled upon during work has been lingering in my mind. Often, when I jot down my thoughts, the urge to act upon them diminishes. It’s like the act of writing them down gives a sense of closure. I’ve experienced this when contemplating additions to my work. Writing "I won't do it" suddenly propels me to add something, and then I circle back to writing "I won’t" again. I've tried to ensure my post captions provide some information, but I feel they've gradually been letting out some creative steam.
To be frank, I haven't felt much pressure lately. It's natural for humans to have ups and downs. The reason for sharing this is that I've been finding daily posts more challenging and have been considering changing that pattern. The pressure to post daily somehow reduced after discussing it in a previous blog, and managing this with work is the primary reason.
The direct reason for contemplating a shift from daily postings is due to an anticipated increase in work commitments. I don't like constantly stating I'm busy, but it’s becoming quite overwhelming. My current pace suggests a possible break in daily updates soon. There are continuity rewards I've yet to send out to certain characters, and the depth of my posts seems to be thinning out.
I could continue until I burn out, but I feel the quality might suffer. To maintain pressure, I need time for activities like gaming, which seems scarce. Especially, travel significantly boosts my internal pressure. There are two trips I aim for next year, and managing them with daily posts seems impossible. Once I cross 20,000 followers on pixiv, I plan to change my style. Thanks to your support, I'm close to that number. Although chasing metrics hasn’t been my goal, I deeply value this achievement as it's not solely built on popular trends. Once achieved, I might shift to a more organic posting schedule, based on my genuine interests. I still plan to continue with some form of continuity rewards.
With all that said, I wish to rebuild my internal pressure and deliver richer content to all of you. I apologize if this was a long read, and I appreciate your patience. If the frequency of posts is high but lacks depth, it defeats the purpose. I aim to find a perfect balance.
※There is an English version available below the Japanese version.
私のイラストの欠点について、3つ触れたいと思います。（手と画素数については後述の通り、意図的にしていることですが）
どのような意図でイラストを作っているかを知っていただくことで、より納得感を持ってご覧いただけるのではないかと思ったか...
Please note that the following is a machine translation, so I apologize if there are any strange expressions.
Thank you so much for your continued warm support!
While I've detailed various points here, I'm not planning any major changes in the near future. Please think of this as a record of my trial-and-error process behind the scenes and during the creation process.
Revisions are increasing
Recently, I've slightly reduced the number of posts I make. There are several reasons, such as testing and work, but the main one is that I've been making a lot more revisions lately. (You can identify the revised illustrations by the word "Edit" at the end of the file name uploaded on MEGA.)
By revisions, I mean refining illustrations generated by AI - erasing unnecessary parts, adding missing details, basically touching up the image. Until now, I've been mostly against making revisions for reasons mentioned in my blog post linked below:
※There is an English version available below the Japanese version.
私のイラストの欠点について、3つ触れたいと思います。（手と画素数については後述の通り、意図的にしていることですが）
どのような意図でイラストを作っているかを知っていただくことで、より納得感を持ってご覧いただけるのではないかと思ったか...
Even now, for reasons mentioned previously, I don't really perfect the hands in the illustrations. However, the frequency of these revisions has increased significantly for the following reasons:
Refined eye for detail: Over time, I've become more attuned to nuances. I now notice flaws or extraneous details that I might have overlooked before, leading to more revisions.
Improved skills: Initially, I only made minor revisions. However, as I continued, my skill set grew. Now, I often feel that it's quicker and more efficient to make corrections or enhancements by hand.
It's fun: It's incredibly enjoyable for me. I love the process of tweaking and perfecting an image. Even if it takes time and reduces my productivity, I can't resist.
Downsides
As the revisions increased, the drawbacks became more apparent:
Time-consuming: Naturally, the more time I spend on revisions, the fewer illustrations I can produce. Maintaining the same quantity requires significant effort.
AI's dilemma: The line between a manually drawn and an AI-generated illustration is blurring. I've always treated AI illustrations as closer to photos. However, the increased revisions make them feel like extensively photoshopped images.
Unnoticed effort: Ideally, no one should notice the revisions. If they do, it means I've failed in making seamless corrections. The irony is that the more effort I put in without it being noticed, the more it feels like that effort might be unnecessary.
From a supporter's perspective
From the point of view of my supporters, the increased revisions might not be beneficial. The illustrations might start to feel more commonplace as the uniqueness of AI is diminished by my manual touch-ups.
Going forward
It all boils down to finding the right balance. I aim to enjoy the process, but it's equally important for my supporters to enjoy the output.
Recently, I felt I was in a bit of a creative slump, but now I have some clarity. Since I'm not a professional, I'll need to strategize to avoid burnout. I don't want to gravitate towards average illustrations. I aim for content that makes everyone maximally happy.
In short, I'll strive to reduce manual revisions. I'll work towards stronger illustrations that don't invite nitpicking. If something does stand out, please let me know through comments or messages. This is, as always, part of my iterative process.
Thank you for reading this lengthy update! I appreciate your continued support!
Please note that the following is a machine translation, so I apologize if there are any strange expressions.
Thank you always for your warm support!
I had written a bit about how I used the initial funds at the start. However, since then, I've invested in new equipment and services. I thought it might be a good time to update you on some of the best purchases I've made thanks to your generosity.
This is a device for the left hand. It was a significant expense, and I felt the need to report on it at some point. Though its advertising seemed questionable and it appeared a bit overpriced, I decided to purchase it as it was the only product meeting my specific requirements (wireless and with three or more knobs). I'm thoroughly pleased with the decision. I use it daily and can't imagine working without it anymore. It's made my workflow much more stress-free. Not only does it help with image editing, but I also find it very useful for AI image generation. While you might imagine AI image generation as simply typing and producing an image, this tool aids in adjusting the sequence and intensity of words. While it might not be for everyone, if you're into video editing or something similar, I highly recommend it.
This is a remote desktop app. It's excellent for remotely accessing a Windows PC from an iPad. You can register and arrange touch buttons for shortcut keys, giving you a unique iPad operational experience. Highly recommended for those with an iPad and a high-performance Windows desktop.
I bought this when I needed some nourishment for the soul. I enjoy photo and art collections that stir a desire to act within me (in my case, the urge to take photos).
While it felt like I had a lot to share when I started writing, it seems there were fewer items than I thought! The funds you've graciously donated are routinely used for recurring costs like image editing software and external storage for data backup. Additionally, considering the heavy use my PC undergoes, I've been saving some of it for potential replacements in case of a breakdown. Your generous support greatly influences my work environment and motivation. I can't express my gratitude enough. With the intention of meeting your expectations and avoiding monotony, I constantly strive for improvement. Keeping the creation process enjoyable is my primary goal, as I believe the joy in the work ensures its continuation!
Please note that the following is a machine translation, so I apologize if there are any strange expressions.
If you ever think of posting something online, I would recommend trying out a paid subscription model and committing to daily posts. Even if you tend to give up quickly, this method might just keep you going. Starting out, it may be challenging to gain initial supporters, and it can be quite disheartening if your followers decrease.
Although I’m the kind of person who gets bored easily and can’t even consistently play mobile games, against all my expectations, I've been posting daily for about five months now. And I have a hunch I'll keep it up.
The primary reason I've been consistent is my subscribers - those who financially support my work. It's not about wanting money, but knowing that there are people willing to pay to see my work. This realization becomes my driving force. Every once in a while, I receive messages or comments cheering me on, and because everyone is so incredibly kind, it motivates me even more to meet your expectations. Yes, a lot of the support might be attributed to your love for the original works and the AI technology, but it doesn't deter me from my daily posts.
Until recently, I believed that I might eventually have to switch from daily posting to a more time-intensive production style. But now, I think that change is way down the line. Daily posting has its challenges, but it also has its ease, especially mentally. With daily posts, even if I’m not entirely satisfied, I can tell myself, "It's the best I could do today." Whether that's good or bad is debatable. If I tried to perfect every piece, it'd be incredibly time-consuming. But spending more time doesn’t necessarily guarantee better quality, and setting clear goals might be advisable.
I once heard a radio personality say that an essential skill for creators is the ability to publish their work confidently, even if they feel it's subpar. With daily postings, even if you lack that confidence, the necessity to post pushes you through, and it seems to work out.
There may be disadvantages to posting daily, like not having the opportunity to spend time on a significant project or lacking the experience to bring a project to completion. Yet, for now, I plan on continuing the daily posts, even contemplating sometimes posting solely about the creation process.
I did mention I’d be taking it easy with this week's blog, so I hope you’ll forgive any parts that seem vague. While consistently posting might not be the ultimate goal, I do plan on continuing this blog for a bit longer, and when things settle down, I'd love to delve into more technical topics.
Please note that the following is a machine translation, so I apologize if there are any strange expressions.
Dear Supporters,
Thank you always for your warm support! For those who've been waiting, we've made progress on the transition benefits, and we expect to send them out via message during the latter half of next week.
In this post, I will delve into discussions around erotic elements.
・Past Reflections
In the past, I had reservations about erotic expressions. Not that I disliked it, but my hesitation stemmed from the internal conflict of incorporating erotic elements in fan creations and from my lack of experience in doing so.
I understand that including erotic elements in fan works may be frowned upon. Even though I've become somewhat desensitized to this (I still grapple with it sometimes), I feel somewhat guilty. While I respect the original creators, I also want to create content that pleases many.
As for my inexperience, I believe persistence is key. There haven't been straightforward resources on erotic art, so I've been navigating it on my own. One thing I've realized is that dialogue or erotic sound effects significantly enhance the eroticism. Conveying through text and images are different, and sometimes what you can't portray in images can be conveyed in text. I've been thinking of non-Japanese speakers as well; with Pokémon and Hololive having international fans, I aim to make my work enjoyable even for those who don't understand Japanese.
・Current Thoughts
Here's a recent example that illustrates the kind of editing and effects I employ:
https://www.pixiv.net/artworks/110645193
Using pink hearts might seem more cheesy than erotic, but it's a deliberate choice. While I'm aiming for a certain erotic appeal, I also want to distinguish my AI art from others'.
Coloring: Due to the realistic, 3D-like coloring, typical manga-style sound effects might feel out of place. Instead, I've aimed for something reminiscent of doodles on a photo booth printout.
Individuality: In the world of AI art, where carving out a unique identity is tough, I strive to inject my personality into my work.
Non-verbal Communication: The abundant use of hearts is to reduce dependency on Japanese language, making the artwork universally comprehensible. Plus, hearts are innately suggestive.
Cheesiness: Sometimes, cheesiness works. Think of how some idols seem more relatable and charming because they aren't conventionally "perfect". That's the kind of charm I'm aiming for.
Sound Effects: Still a weak point for me. While bigger text is more visible, I've kept them subtle in my recent work so as not to overshadow the artwork. My limited exposure to erotic manga means I often struggle with choosing the right sound effect.
Tears: Not related to editing, but I've always been conflicted about depicting tears. They can heighten eroticism, but there's a thin line between evoking empathy and discomfort. Lately, I've noticed that many erotic mangas feature characters with glistening eyes or tears, so I've started to experiment with this element. In the future, I'd like to perfect portraying this nuanced emotion.
Future:
I'm contemplating delving into CG collections, comics, or games, recognizing their vast potential. While I used to lean towards comics, I now feel that animating my illustrations into a game might be more engaging. However, the time and effort involved would be substantial.
I believe there's room for more sensual elements in my work, and I'm committed to enhancing that aspect.
About Dawn:
Many of you seem to love the character 'Dawn', and I've noticed a trend of increased support when she's featured. While I want to portray Dawn in a sensual light, diving into explicit content feels somewhat off for now. But who knows? Maybe with time, my perspective will change.
Although I've been leaning more towards erotic themes recently, I plan to balance it with another theme, 'travel'. Hikari, being central to the 'travel' theme, might be why I've struggled to find the right sensual depiction for her. More of Hikari's sensual content might come in the future, so please be patient.
In Conclusion:
Thank you for reading this far!
I tend to get carried away and write extensively, so I'll aim for a lighter blog next week. While I've been focusing on erotic themes lately, I'm also planning a significant 'travel' project. I have so much I want to do, including delivering the promised transition benefits, ongoing rewards, and comics.
三重県でグルメ豪遊！・沖縄・金沢、サイパン、メルボルン・北海道・I'm going to Saitama this year, but I've been to Norway Iceland and Ireland. All recommend・Canada・長崎県の雲仙は冬場は濃い霧に包まれ、まるで別世界のようです・金沢・札幌・長崎県・Malaysia(both cities and nature related areas)・沖縄（本島、水納島、石垣島、宮古島に行ったことありますが、どれも素敵でした！）・イギリス・Hawaii beach・北海道・Kaohsiung Taiwan
・瑞士(Switzerland)、泰國(Thailland)、Japan・Australia・長野・マルタ🇲🇹・北海道・博多/仙台・ハワイ・伊豆・箱根(特に河津町・山北町)、千葉の南房総・東房総(特に夷隅・鴨川市、大多喜町・九十九里町)・Toronto, Chicago, Kurashiki, kyoto, New York City, Melbourne, Cancun・"イタリアとマルタ。イタリアとマルタは隣の国で、マルタは島です。どちらの国の料理もイタリア料理が主で、ラザニアは特に美味しいです！！"・沖縄、長崎・日光・青森・沖縄・九十九島・京都（宇治）：10円玉でおなじみの平等院からスタートして，宇治川の急流を見ながらお茶・茶菓子を楽しみつつ，宇治寺・宇治上寺では兎モチーフのお守りに囲まれながら涼むコースがおすすめです。時間があれば源氏物語ミュージアムも回るのも〇。京都に住んでた頃好きすぎて年に5～6回は行きました。・ウズベキスタン
Please note that the following is a machine translation, so I apologize if there are any strange expressions.
Dear Supporters,
Thank you always for your warm support! Today, I would like to share the results of the 4th survey we conducted recently. To all those who took the time to respond, thank you!
- Recommended Travel Destinations
While the primary purpose of this survey was to help us plan future posting frequency, content, and activities, the most enjoyable part for me personally was the section where we asked for your recommended travel destinations.
Those of you who have only recently started following may not know this, but I love to travel. The foundation of my illustration work is deeply tied to my passion for travel. My hope is to provide those who are busy with everyday life a chance to experience the joy and healing of a journey, even if only for a brief moment within their day. I admit my content has become more erotic recently due to high demand, but particularly with regards to Pokémon, I aspire to create more illustrations that depict characters on their travels (of course, I will continue to improve the erotic aspects as well).
Despite it being an optional question, more than half of you responded with a recommended travel destination! Thank you! I've decided to visit the place that intrigued me the most from your responses. That's why I'm heading to Tono, Iwate this summer, a place many of you recommended. I've always enjoyed going to places that I barely knew beyond their names, so Tono caught my attention. Rest assured, I plan to keep posting content even while I'm away - I managed to keep up daily postings even during business trips in the past.
Here are some of the other recommended destinations you shared. If you'd prefer me not to share your recommendation, please don't hesitate to let me know:
Mie Prefecture for a gourmet tour! Okinawa, Kanazawa, Saipan, Melbourne, Hokkaido, Saitama, Norway, Iceland, Ireland, Canada, Unzen in Nagasaki prefecture shrouded in heavy fog in winter, Sapporo, Nagasaki Prefecture, Malaysia, Okinawa (Main Island, Minna Island, Ishigaki Island, Miyakojima - all are wonderful!), United Kingdom, Hawaii, Kaohsiung Taiwan, Switzerland, Thailand, Australia, Nagano, Malta, Hakata/Sendai, Hawaii, Izu, Hakone, Southern and Eastern Chiba (especially Izumi and Kamogawa cities, Otaki and Kujukuri towns), Toronto, Chicago, Kurashiki, Kyoto, New York City, Melbourne, Cancun, Italy and Malta, Nikko, Aomori, Ninety-nine Islands, Kyoto (Uji), and Uzbekistan.
Multiple people mentioned Malta and it made me want to go and eat their lasagna. I'm also quite curious about Unzen in winter. I feel a kinship with whoever mentioned Uzbekistan; I would certainly recommend Central Asia for first-time overseas travelers. There's a lot to enjoy about traveling there.
- Posting Frequency
Responses to the question about posting frequency were quite evenly spread.
Since I started daily postings, I realized just how challenging it is to maintain daily content, like some Youtubers do. Depending on the post, it takes me about 2-4 hours to create each piece of content. Occasionally, it can take even longer. While I acknowledge that it's probably unsustainable to keep posting daily, I do see the merits of doing so, and it would take some courage to shift my approach.
Given the way the question was phrased, I can't help but wonder if the responses would have been different. I'm unsure if reducing the frequency of posts would necessarily lead to an increase in quality. Which is better, daily 50-point posts or an 80-point post every three days?
For now, considering the evenly spread results from the survey, I think I will maintain my current posting rhythm. After all, the goal is to create content that can be enjoyed during brief intervals throughout the day. If by any chance you find the frequency of my posts overwhelming, feel free to turn off notifications and check in when it suits you.
- Interaction with Male Characters
55% of you said you want more interactions with male characters, while 45% said they weren't necessary.
I was wondering whether sex scenes, which are essentially interactions with male characters, were necessary. At one point, I thought they weren't important. After all, they often involve nudity and can result in similar illustrations. But recently, my perspective has been changing. In erotic manga, of course, if you only focus on the sex scenes, it seems like that's all there is. But the interesting part is the introductory setup and the unique settings that make those scenes interesting. I wasn't very interested in drawing sex scenes, but now I think that if it can make the setting more interesting, I'm willing to do it in response to demand. For now, I'll practice while improving various areas, including erotic expression. I'm going to continue trying various things, so please don't hesitate to give feedback if you have any thoughts.
- Other
Thank you to everyone who took the time to write in the free comment section! I've read each one thoroughly. I'm interested in creating yuri content, but I'm not sure if there's a coupling I particularly want to do right now...
For FANBOX, I will continue to update weekly, doing things I enjoy. I have a mountain of things I want to try, so I'll do my best to find the time!
...Japan is too hot, isn't it? I hope everyone is doing well.
Usually, my end-of-month blog is a supporters-only article, but this month, I'm changing the content slightly and making it publicly available due to various changes.
・Policy Change
Firstly, as an announcement once again, due to FANBOX's policy changes, I made many articles, including illustration articles, private on 7/24. Since guiding to external sites also violates the rules, I made detailed articles about the migration private as well, but I continue my activities after moving.
Many of you have already switched, and I truly appreciate it. The migration benefits are planned to be sent in early July, so please wait a little longer.
While the scope of what I can publish on FANBOX has narrowed, I recognize FANBOX as the base of my activities, not the relocation destination. That's because I post mainly on pixiv, and I believe that those who have taken an interest in pixiv and come to see my work are my greatest supporters. I will continue to strive to create works that will please all of you who support and follow me on FANBOX.
I will continue to post articles on FANBOX, so I would be happy if you could check it out along with pixiv, even occasionally!
・Daily Ranking
Thanks to all of you, this month I made it into pixiv's daily ranking for the first time! I ranked in for a total of 3 days with 2 posts of Dawn. This is all thanks to you.
I wasn't aiming for the ranking since I was just creating what I loved, hoping it would resonate with someone, but I'm genuinely happy about it.
・Favorite Post
My favorite post this month is this one.
I enjoy creating when I'm focusing on the background or clothing.
I wrote various things along with unpublished images, and I noticed a lot while creating, so I'm planning to make a lot of good stuff using this as a starting point.
・Erotic Doujinshi
I once declared that I'd create something akin to erotic doujinshi, but I've been unable to make any progress, caught up in daily posts and continuous benefits...
If I continue like this, I feel like I'll never be able to release it, so I'll make sure to put something out in August, regardless of how it turns out!
It's my first attempt, so it might end up as a lousy one-page comic or something, but I hope you'll kindly watch over me as I try something new.
Next month is the first month after the transition, so I'll renew my determination and work hard!
As previously announced, from 7/25, FANBOX will change its regulations and posting of AI illustrations will be prohibited. All posts that violate the regulations will be made private by 7/24, and I will transition to Patreon.
https://yidall.fanbox.cc/posts/6329682
To avoid confusion about where to go for Patreon, I have summarized the various services where I post.
https://linktr.ee/yidall
Let me explain once again what will happen after 7/24.
① Posts from 7/24 to 7/31
Although it is due to FANBOX's circumstances, I think it is unfair to stop halfway through the month while receiving monthly support, so I will publish posts after 7/24 on online storage and Patreon.
I will send the URL of the online storage to paying supporters in a letter. If you have not received a letter, please check the URL at the bottom of this page.
https://yidall.fanbox.cc/posts/6397046
(From 7/25, guiding to external sites will also violate the regulations, so I will delete the above post on 7/24. Please understand.)
Frankly, it's quite hard to see... so I think it's better to look at Patreon.
② Transition Benefits
As a transition benefit to Patreon, I am currently preparing a new illustration collection of multiple popular characters!
I am planning about 100 new illustrations of maids and yukata, including R-18.
Patreon is different from FANBOX in that you can watch unlimitedly from the day you join for a month, so moving in July is also welcome. For those who move in July, I will add about 20 bonus illustrations as an early benefit.
The application form for the transition benefits is published here.
I will keep the support plan on FANBOX for those who have said they want to continue supporting on FANBOX. I will continue to do what I can, such as ongoing benefits, blogs, explanatory articles, and surveys, within the scope of the regulations.
I will avoid stating specifically, but I will make sure there are benefits for those who support only on FANBOX.
If you want to see unpublished illustrations, it will be most beneficial to move to Patreon, so I would appreciate it if you would consider moving.
I'll say it twice because it's important, but Patreon is the most beneficial if you are only interested in unpublished illustrations.
・Other
I said I would write a blog every week, but I haven't been able to, so I'll take this opportunity to write a journal entry here.
I started Pokemon Sleep. I'm thinking of using this opportunity to start sleeping regularly, so if you're doing it, please register as a friend! I tried sleeping a lot yesterday and got 100 points, but I think this game is more about how long you can continue than getting a high score. It doesn't seem to stimulate the desire to spend money.
Researcher Code: 3718-8810-4553
The results of the survey I conducted the other day were a bit interesting, so I want to summarize them soon. I didn't plan to go anywhere this summer because I was enthusiastic about going on an adventure last summer, but after seeing recommended travel destinations, I started to want to go. The travel destination items, I was happy to get more answers than I expected! Thank you very much.
Although the place of activity will change, I will continue to enjoy it in the future. I hope to make it better with all of you, so I look forward to your continued support.
明日以降のイラストはこちらのオンラインストレージに投稿します。
https://mega.nz/folder/hXIHkKRZ#oga6YaqeWJugXjkc43sPzA
FANBOXへのAIイラストの投稿はこれで最後です。
これで終わりかと思うと少し寂しくなります。
持っているのは感謝の花束だと思ってください。
短い間でしたが、たくさんの方に見ていただけたことに感謝しております。改めてありがとうございました！
今はまだバタバタしていますが、落ち着いたらまた気合を入れなおして1からやっていきます。今後もPatreonとPixivでは継続して投稿していきますので、これからもよろしくお願いいたします！
I'll be posting tomorrow's illustrations and beyond on this online storage:
https://mega.nz/folder/hXIHkKRZ#oga6YaqeWJugXjkc43sPzA
This will be the last AI illustration post on FANBOX.
It feels a little bit lonely thinking that this is the end. Please consider what I have as a bouquet of gratitude.
Although it was a short period, I'm grateful to have been seen by many people. Thank you once again.
It's a bit hectic right now, but once things settle down, I'll regain my spirit and start again from scratch. I will continue to post on Patreon and Pixiv, so I look forward to your continued support!
8枚目までが1回目、9枚目からが2回目につくったやつ。一度寝かせて再チャレンジするとうまくいったりいかなかったり。
今まで使ってこなかった技術を取り入れてます。作成速度が下がるので敬遠してましたが、ここぞという場面で使えそうで武器が増えました。
再現度は微妙かもしれませんが、カバー画像に使ったイラストが好きです。こおりのぬけみち（滋賀・伊吹山）イメージ。
The first eight images were from the first attempt, and the rest were from the second round. Sometimes, putting the work aside and revisiting it helps, sometimes it doesn't.
I've incorporated techniques that I hadn't used before. I was hesitant to use them because they slow down the creation process, but they have become a new tool in my arsenal, to be used in just the right situations.
The reproduction might be a bit off, but I like the illustration I used for the cover image. It's inspired by Koori's Secret Path (in Shiga, Mt. Ibuki).
そろそろ別の服装とか水着とかのカイやってみたい。
新しいことにチャレンジするための時間をなかなか確保できないため、1投稿あたりの時間を決めてやろうとしています（月初にも言ってましたね）。
時間制限かけると自分で納得のいかない投稿も増えてしまうのですが、あんまり睡眠時間削っても体に良くないので…。
I want to try doing Irida in different outfits, like swimsuits.
It's hard to find time to challenge new things, so I'm trying to set a time limit per post (as I mentioned at the beginning of the month).
Limiting time might result in posts that I'm not entirely satisfied with, but cutting back on sleep isn't good for the body either...
Thank you always for your warm support! This time, we have a survey about the future direction of our posts and activities. We will use your feedback to help shape our upcoming strategies (though we do not intend to make drastic changes). If you have any specific wishes, like wanting to see more of a certain character, please feel free to write in the open-ended section at the bottom!
練習その4
短時間でやる練習。たぶん少しずつエロのバリエーション増やしていくしかない。1投稿でひとつずつ新しいのにチャレンジして習得していきたい。
Practice #4:
This is a quick exercise. I guess the only way is to gradually increase the variety of erotic elements. I want to challenge myself to learn something new with each post.
意外とポケモンのイラストでステージ風の背景あまりやっていなかったかも。コンテスト衣装ということにすれば色んな服装試せて楽しいかも。
I realized that I might not have done many Pokemon illustrations with a stage-like background. If I consider them as contest outfits, it might be fun to experiment with various clothing styles.
今回は服装起点だったのですが、一応全員アイドルだしライブステージ感もっと出してもいいのかも
This time we focused on their outfits, but considering they are all idols, it might be good to emphasize the live stage feeling more.
だいぶ前にご希望いただいていたウェディングシロナ。ウェディングドレスいろんなパターン試したので前半多めです。
Here's the long-awaited wedding-themed Cynthia, as requested quite a while ago. I experimented with various wedding dress patterns, so the first half is packed with those.
Today, an announcement was made by the official pixivFANBOX stating that new regulations will be applied starting July 25, 2023. According to these new regulations, posting of "AI-generated content" will be prohibited.
As I had previously informed, activities on FANBOX from July 25 will comply with the new regulations. Moreover, the posting of "AI-generated content" will continue on Patreon.
My sincere apologies to those who have recently supported me...
As a transition bonus exclusive to those who have supported or followed me on FANBOX so far, I will be preparing some benefits for transitioning to Patreon. I will inform you about the details later. For now, I'd appreciate it if you could at least follow me for free from the "..." button.
I recommend the smartphone app for viewing. User registration can be done smoothly from the app.
If there's anything you don't understand or are unsure about Patreon's specification, please feel free to ask me via message or comment.
I truly appreciate each and every one of you who have supported me this far. I'm thrilled that so many people have been interested in the illustrations I've created and came to see them, that I've been able to continue with the support of many people, and that I've been able to meet you all. Although I don't feel like I have the vocabulary to fully express my gratitude, please know that I'm more grateful than you can imagine.
While I plan to continue posting non-violating content (surveys, blogs, etc.) on FANBOX as before, I am considering activities that can bring new joy to you all. Based on your feedback and opinions, I will consider the specifics and make further announcements. I plan to ask for your opinions about future activities on FANBOX in a survey this weekend. I could share more detailed techniques about my AI illustration generation, for example... But I'm also open to more wild and interesting suggestions.
Regarding existing posts, I will make all posts violating the new regulations private on July 24. The article for the zip link for the premium plan will also be deleted on July 24, so please be aware.
The link was updated on July 11 for security reasons.
If there are those who find it hard to send comments or messages, I would be grateful if you could write anything here on this occasion.
This was a long announcement, but thank you for reading it all the way through. I aim to continue creating with all of you in the future! Thank you for your continued support.
すごく率直に言うと作りたかったのは1枚目の画です。昨日と同様に連想ゲーム的な楽しさと練習でスク水白衣までいれました。
風景込みのイラストはだいたい最初に少しだけイメージしてる場所があって、今回はトルコのオルデニズというリゾートビーチです（前回のリゾートヒカリはスペインのマヨルカ島）。
映画aftersun/アフターサンを最近になってようやく見たのですが、あまりにもよかったので映画の舞台のオルデニズ。万人受けするタイプの映画ではないような気がしますが、気になった人にはおすすめです。重めなので注意です。どういう構造の映画か多少事前情報入れておけばなんじゃこれとはならないかも？
最近また制作に悩みっぱなしです。悩まないといいものはできないので単純に悪いことではないなと思えていますが、はやくトンネルを脱したいです。
To be completely honest, the piece I wanted to create the most was the first one. Just like yesterday, I included a school swimsuit and a lab coat as a part of a fun association game and practice.
The illustrations that include scenery usually start with a vague image of a place in mind, and this time it's a resort beach in Oludeniz, Turkey (the previous resort-themed Dawn was set in Majorca, Spain).
I finally got around to watching the movie 'Aftersun' recently and it was so good that I chose Oludeniz, the setting of the movie. I don't think it's a movie that appeals to everyone, but I recommend it to those who are interested. Just be aware that it's a bit heavy. If you have some information about the structure of the movie in advance, you might not be left wondering 'what is this?'.
I've been struggling with my production process again lately. I've come to think that it's not entirely a bad thing to struggle because good work doesn't come without it, but I really want to get out of this rut soon.
