Introduction - What is it like being a Cosplayer?

Hi! I'm Hanna! Being a cosplayer, at least for me, is all about being able to express yourself through your favorite characters. I was always shy and quiet, and always the one getting made fun of for liking harry potter and lord of the rings. Cosplay has allowed me to come out of my shell and be surrounded by people similar to me who have the same interests and won't judge me. In fact, most people I've met at conventions have welcomed me with open arms and big smiles. I love being able to play dress up and being able to be my favorite characters, even if it's only for a few days.

What are your next goals?

My next goals are to keep doing what I'm doing, school, cosplay, work, just living life. I want to do so many more cosplays, but time and money are not on my side at the moment.

Cosplay Characters

I have cosplayed Red Link, Yoshi, R2d2, Harley Quinn, Deadpool, Maggie Greene (The Walking Dead), Rainbow Randolph (Death To Smoochy), Misa Amane, Wicket, a viking, a blood elf, Conky (Trailer Park Boys), Alex ( A clockwork Orange), Bubbles (Powerpuff Girls), and zombie bubbles.

What does Cosplay mean to you?

Cosplay is all about having fun, and showing your love for the characters you've grown up with. It took a lot for me to start making outfits and to parade around conventions with a lot of people, but I'm glad I started doing so because I've made so many friends in the process. It's given me a self esteem boost, and makes me feel beautiful on those days when I'm feeling down.

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

Leeanna Vamp has helped me with outfits, and has been a huge inspiration to me. She's always nice and gives me helpful hints, and takes the time to show me new tricks to making outfits.

Do you have any advice or suggestions for upcoming Cosplayers?

Honestly, just be yourself and have fun. You don't have to cosplay the characters how they are down to the tiniest details, you can do your own variation of the character. I love seeing the creativity everyone has to offer and part of that is making the characters your own.

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

I've heard snarky comments walking around conventions, and received many dirty looks, but I try to ignore the negativity. If you focus on that, it can ruin the entire experience for you.

Any final remarks or shout-outs?

Do what you love and keep the creativity flowing. Most of all have fun while you're doing it!