Cosplaying: How I started And Why I Continue.

What is Cosplay? 

 Cosplay is short for Costume Play and is a sub-culture of roleplaying. It is when someone dons on a costume and accessories to represent a character. i.e. Superman, Jack Sparrow.

Why and How Did I Start to do it?

When I was still in Grade 5 back in 2008 I met Black Pearl Philippines, which led me to the world of Cosplay, they made me awed because portraying your favorite character seemed fun. But I didn't started cosplaying then and there. A year after my heart operation in 2011, my closest friend, Lemon, asked to to go with her to Cosplay Mania 2012. So I ask someone to make me a school uniform like Rukia Kuchiki's from Bleach. I chose Rukia because I loved her character and she was my favorite character that time. 

How To Start Cosplaying:

Well this is actually how I started cosplaying and how I choose my characters.

When I started cosplaying I chose Rukia because she was my favorite and because I have the same height  and I look like her. Then I chose Gumi who was and still my obsession. I also choose characters depending on how I love them and how close they are to my looks and personality.

But here is a tip when choosing a character:
Know the character first. Cosplaying is like acting, you must know the character first before you portray that character.

What would you need to cosplay?

1. Cloth for "Cloth Cosplay" or Rubber sheet for Armour Cosplay. These are the basic materials, of course you'll need to get tons of stuff to make your costume or armour look perfect.

2. Wig for a specific character. When choosing a wig make sure to get the right shade and style so you won't regret your decision.

3. Make up to look like that character. Don't be afraid to experiment with Make up because what works on others might not work for you

4. Patience. First it'll be frustrating. Your wig/ make up/ costume isn't right while those around you are perfect. But with time it'll be perfect and in time it'll be just as you want it. 

5. A good attitude and behavior. Please be nice towards others and be friendly. Who knows, maybe you'll have a family within the community when you have a good attitude and behavior.

Why Do I Continue to Cosplay?

Let's be honest. Cosplaying is frustrating, annoying depressing and most of the time, tiring. But it is also fun rewarding, exciting and challenging. Meeting new friends every convention and shoot as well as portraying characters is, for me, what makes cosplay. Yes it has down sides like all other things but if you focus on the negatives then you won't enjoy it.

 Photo Credits: Sir Norvil, Me, Ate Lynn Montejo, Sir Alphard Sir Kaylze and T.A.M Photography.