Cosplaying is a great display of ambition. I've known a lot of people that initially got into cosplaying because they wanted to feel like they were someone else and really get lost in the idea of leaving themselves behind as they embodied whoever or whatever they wanted. I initially got into it as a challenge of craft. When I first put on my suit, I understood the desire to be someone else. It was fun, it was new, it was a chance to be completely different. My imagination runs wild constantly and this is an outlet for creativity and desire to craft. I love displaying my interests. It's a great way to share what I believe in.
My next project is Emile from Reach and while it is slightly more complicated than my ODST suit, I am looking forward to it because of the challenge and potentially rewarding outcome.
I have only cosplayed a hand full of characters. Mickey, an ODST from Halo 3: ODST, Jayne from Firefly and currently I'm working on Emile from Halo Reach
Cosplay means two things to me. It's a representation of myself in the most purely visual way. It lets people know who I am and what I dream of. On the other side it's a much more personal accomplishment to build from my influences and imagination.
The Halo series has been a huge influence in my cosplay projects. They remind me of the kind of characters and aliens I thought up as a child and continue to admire. The best mentors I have had has been the 405th community. A costuming forum dedicated to Halo costuming.
Research. I made sure to read up on the processes as much as I could before I even began. Making sure I got the right kinds of products, followed the right procedures and took all necessary precautions. The other tip I would offer is to not be afraid to remake something. Don't settle, always strive for what you consider perfect.
My first Comic Con that I brought my ODST suit to, it was falling apart from the beginning. Pieces were falling off, things were breaking. I reassessed myself the morning of comic con and took the time to properly repair those bits instead of giving up on it. It took a few hours but I had successfully made a suit that could be worn for 8 hours. The frustration I felt was a learning experience. It let me know just what works and what doesn't.
Cosplaying is great. It makes people's days to see characters they love and see the creativity you have. It not only makes their day, but it makes your day better too as a result.