Introduction - What is it like being a Cosplayer?

Being a cosplayer is like stepping into another world. You erase your own identity to adopt that of someone else. In my case, I wear a full mask when I cosplay. This protects my identity and allows me to be anonymous. When you mix anonymity along with cosplay, a new sensation is created. I can walk the streets and gain attention from hundred, but as soon as the mask is removed, I am no one. This makes being in normal clothes, wearing no costume, feel like I am incognito. That's what I love. I love Daft Punk so much. I've wanted to cosplay as Daft Punk for about five years. I achieved my goal this weekend and it was one of the best feelings in the world. I wanted to be altruistic with my trip to Chicago. I took only two pictures while I was there because I felt it would be better for other people to enjoy their time with me. This, in turn, allowed me to have a wonderful time making everyone else happy. I cosplay simply because I am passionate about Daft Punk and making others happy makes me happy.

What are your next goals?

My next goals are ride out this costume for a couple more conventions until I discover what I want to do next. I'm not sure what cosplays my future holds, but I'm certain that it is very bright.

Cosplay Characters

Daft Punk was my first and ever Cosplay. It couldn't have gone better.

What does Cosplay mean to you?

Cosplay means shedding your own identity to adopt that of another character. It means working hard in order to accurately portray someone else. It means dressing up silly and having fun with people around you. I have only just begun with cosplay and I have much further to go.

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

My biggest influence for cosplay has been D-Piddy. He is a very popular cosplayer who goes as Deadpool, Attack on Titan, and Skeletor. Watching all of his videos got me psyched up in order to finally get the courage to start my cosplay.

Do you have any advice or suggestions for upcoming Cosplayers?

Don't do a cosplay solely because it's easy. Find out what you really like, and work hard to make that come true. Don't settle.

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

I spent a lot of money on my costumes. Around $800 USD. This was the only negative part. The hard work sucked, but it payed off 100 fold.

Any final remarks or shout-outs?

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to take this survey. It was dope.