Introduction - What is it like being a Cosplayer?

My name is Catherine. I really like being a cosplayer, especially when I get asked for pictures or how I built my costumes.

What are your next goals?

Bigger, better, more polished! I really want my cosplay to look like it belongs on a movie set. Next years Halo cosplay is just getting underway now so it'll be perfect in time for cosplay season next year.

Cosplay Characters

My first convention cosplay was the Dragonborn from Skyrim. I have to admit, it was pretty rough for my first cosplay but I loved it! I've also cosplayed as Burnie Burns the Horsepuncher, Fluttershy, Female Deadpool, a hunter from Destiny and Hilda the Pokemon trainer. I've also built an Isaac Clarke engineer rig from Dead Space.

What does Cosplay mean to you?

Cosplay means getting creative with your costume and how you build it. Building the costume has always been such a fun part of the cosplay experience for me and having an unlimited pool of characters to choose from really lets me stretch out and use all kinds of materials in ways I never would have thought to use them. To me, cosplay is also a sharing experience, whether it be tips or tricks or just showing off my work.

Who have been your biggest influences/role models/mentors?

My biggest influence is actually the SyFy show Face Off. I really admire the creativity and craftsmanship of the work on the show, especially in such a small space of time. The show has really had an impact on the way I think about constructing my costumes, they've got to look finished, polished and ready for action.

Do you have any advice or suggestions for upcoming Cosplayers?

Cosplay can be stressful, but with good planning and a good attitude you can really put forth something you can be proud of.

What is the most negative experience you've dealt with while cosplaying, and how did you handle it?

Ive had some people suddenly turn quite shy when my boyfriend gets asked "How did you make your Dead Space suit?" and he replies with "actually, my girlfriend made it, she can answer all your questions" and then decide to just nod and walk away. It's really weird.

Any final remarks or shout-outs?

Shout out to my friends, you guys are the best ;)