I still remember the thrill when I first saw the announcement for the Amplifying Test Fan Photography Contest. It was March 2024, and as a dedicated Proxy, I knew I had to participate. The contest was organized by HoYoverse for Zenless Zone Zero fans, and it promised amazing prizes. The submission period ran from 2024/03/17 12:00 to 2024/04/29 12:00 (UTC +8), and winners would be announced after 2024/05/28. Now, in 2026, looking back, that event remains one of my favorite community memories.

The prizes were incredibly tempting. I mean, who wouldn't want a Fujifilm instax Polaroid mini LiPlay? Here's the full breakdown:

Prize Category	Number of Winners	Prize
Outstanding Creator	3	Fujifilm instax Polaroid mini LiPlay
Creative Creator	7	Logitech (G) G102 2nd Gen Gaming Mouse
Lucky Creator	10	Zenless Zone Zero Merchandise Bundle

There were two ways to submit. Method 1: post on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram with the hashtags #zzzero and #CreateForNewEridu, then fill out a submission form. Method 2: post directly on HoYoLAB using the [Post Work] button. I chose Method 2 because I loved the community there. The rules were strict: submissions had to be original fan photography related to Zenless Zone Zero characters, NPCs, in-game shops, Bangboo, or items. Photos of scenery, props, handmade items, or cosplay were all allowed. Videos? Nope, invalid. And each work had to be created within the last month.

I decided to make a handmade Bangboo figurine and photograph it in a neon-lit alley that reminded me of New Eridu. It took me two weeks to sculpt, paint, and set up the shot. I even added a tiny "Amplifying Test" sign.

But the notes section was a maze of warnings. I had to avoid hate speech, NSFW content, harassment, plagiarism, and anything commercial. I also couldn't submit the same work to other contests. The organizer reserved the right to disqualify anyone who broke the rules. I read every line carefully because I didn't want to lose my chance. One misstep, like using a copyrighted background track in a video (though videos were invalid anyway), could get me banned. And I had to keep my social media account public if I used Method 1.

The waiting period was agonizing. After the submission period ended on April 29, I checked HoYoLAB every day. The announcement was scheduled for after May 28. I didn't win the grand prize, but I did get a Lucky Creator prize—a merchandise bundle! 🎉 I was ecstatic. The bundle arrived a few months later, and I still have the stickers and keychain on my desk today.

Looking back in 2026, that contest taught me a lot. It wasn't just about winning; it was about creativity and community. I saw incredible entries: cosplayers, miniature dioramas, and even Zenless-themed cupcakes. The event also had a random draw for 10 Lucky Creators among all valid submissions, which gave everyone a fair shot. Plus, you could submit multiple times with one HoYoverse account, though you could only win one prize (the highest-ranked one if you won multiple).

Of course, there were rules about address delivery, customs, and taxes. Winners had to provide a correct delivery address within a timeframe, or they'd forfeit the prize. I made sure my address was perfect. The organizers also warned that prizes might be substituted if inventory ran low, and delivery could be delayed. I didn't mind—I was just happy to be part of it.

Now, in 2026, Zenless Zone Zero has grown even more, and HoYoverse still runs creative events. But that first fan photography contest will always be special. If you're a Proxy and you see a similar event, jump in! Just remember: read the notes, be original, and have fun. 🎮📸

So, what are you waiting for? The next contest might be just around the corner. And who knows? Maybe you'll be the next Outstanding Creator.