Introduction - What is it like being a Cosplayer?

I've always been fascinated by costumes, I made a lot of them for LARP. The first time I went to a con I decided to cosplay a character I liked. It was so awesome to see other people who recognized the character and decided to talk to me. I felt connected to something special and really positive. Something others and I shared without knowing each other, but that connection built an easy way to communicate. I shared my love of anime and video games with complete strangers and it was fun! Also, after 400 - 500 hours of work on a costume, it's really rewarding to see the reaction and comments of people you don't even know! I've been really lucky because I've always had good times when cosplaying. I really enjoy being part of that community.

What are your next goals?

I want to improve my crafting skills and find some new cool character to cosplay. I'd like to work with LED lights on a costume, it would be great to learn to do that! I look forward to find new challenges; that is cosplay to me.

Cosplay Characters

I've cosplayed Izumi Curstis from Full Metal Achemist and Tyrande Whisperwind from World of Warcraft.

What does Cosplay mean to you?

It means learning new skills and working to do something that looks great! It's being part of an awesome community and to look what other cosplayers are working on and what they did. I really like when I can see a personal twist to a cosplay.

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

Kamui, Kamui and ... Kamui. I just like that girl, she is really a great role model for cosplayer. I like the way she work and the character she choose. Her success doesn't seem to have changed her, she is quite funny. I enjoyed her panel on armor crafting at Montreal Comiccon, she has a great sense of humor!

Do you have any advice or suggestions for upcoming Cosplayers?

Always choose something you like because you will be working on your project for quite some time! Better enjoy what you are creating!

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

I had some real trouble to craft gemstone. The mold weren't taking and it was a complete nightmare. The smell of clear Polyester casting resin is horrible and I had some serious headache when I tried to craft them indoors. I kept on going and finally found how to cast the gems!

Any final remarks or shout-outs?

Thank you for inviting me to take this survey! :)