fan-[girl]-atic

It takes a certain kind of person to take time out of their lives to dress as their favorite character.  May it be anime, manga, tv/film or gaming characters, the people who dedicate themselves to building their own representations of these characters should be commended.  They allow everyday people to be a part of their world at conventions, parties or even every day living.

Cosplay, costume play, is nothing new.  I have been to anime, sci fi, and comic cons, and the anticipation of this elite class is always something to look forward too.  Cosplay does not just end at the actual costume, but mannerisms, signature poses and attitude are all integrated to pull off the perfect representation.  There are often contests and games designed specifically for Cosplayers such as: Cosplay Game Shows, Trivia, Masquerades and a platform to produce and act out your own skits for fellow con-goers.

Even if Naruto is already somewhat played, seeing a group of kids who have banned together to create the whole cast is always great to see.  Which brings me to another point, COSPLAYERS are AWESOME people.  They are more than willing to pose for photos and have a chat, they dont show up dressed like that to hide in a corner!

If its your first time or the 11th time at a con, they can inspire you to dress up for the next one!  They are a creative and dedicated people and “ooh can i take a picture of you??”

Want to show off your cosplay skills but dont know where?

• Comic Con (San Diego, CA; New York, NY -Comics, Sci Fi, Anime, Manga, Gaming, TV, Film)
• Otakon (Baltimore, MD – Anime, Manga)
• Dragon Con (Atlanta, GA – Sci Fi, Gaming, Comics, Literature, Art, Music, Film)
• The Official Star Trek Con (Las Vegas, NV/Nationwide)
• The Official Twilight Con (Nationwide, formerly known as TwiTour)
• AnimeNext (Somerset, NJ – Anime, Manga, Art)
• Creation Entertainment (Nationwide, Coordinates various conventions: Star Trek, Twilight, Fangoria, Supernatural, Xena, Firefly, Stargate, BSG, Farscape, LOTR)

Sailor Moon (Manga/Anime [Toei])

Naruto (Magna/Anime [Shonen Jump])

Bleach (Manga/Anime [Shonen Jump])

Metroid/Samus Aran (Video Game [Nintendo])

Star Wars (Movies/Books/Cartoons/everything possible, they do that too)

Gears of War: costumes by Nightmare Armor Studios (Video Game [Epic])

Twilight: depicted by The Hillywood Show (Book/Movies)