✿ Let's Cosplay ✿

♥ Adelhaid - Lilith Trinity Blood

2012-01-07T12:13:00.010+08:00

Ryeain : There're many awesome Trinity Blood cosplayers out there, with those accuracy on each and every details made. From overall that I've seen one I liked much is Adelhaid's Lilith Sahl. It's a very detail piece, and the wings are the ones that I love the most, size itself was not too big yet not too small. She have potray Lilith very well, by bringing out the elegant and wise look of Lilith~

LILITH SAHL [TRINITY BLOOD] by ADELHAID

Ryea : What is cosplay to you?

A: Cosplay is my favorite hobby. It is a way to have fun and to make friends with creative people.

Ryea: What interest you to cosplay Trinity Blood characters?

A: I am fond of Tores Shibamoto art to the Trinity Blood novels. Her works drew my attention when I saw them for the first time. After that I've read the available translation of the novels made by Russian fans. I can't say that I liked all in this story, but some characters and their relationships are really very interesting.

Lilith Sahl was the fourth of the test tube babies created for the Mars Colonization Project and the prototype for other children - Abel, Cain and Seth. The eldest and most merciful she was the only one Crusnik (in this novel it is not only the vampire that drinks the blood of other vampires but also the result of nanomachine injection) who sided with humanity during the war between earthmen and the Mars colonists who turned into the Methuselah (vampires). Her quiet confidence, ability to empathize and gentle beauty win the reader. Though she was killed by her brother Cain she could convince Abel to change his attitude to people. This are the events preceding the main line of the novels. But they have affected greatly one of the protagonists, so it was very interesting to read parts that were dedicated to Lilith.

I decided to make her cosplay for one of Moscow festivals to accompany my friends who were making Abel and Cain. This dress was the most detailed and beautiful from the costumes that had colored illustrations. So I've chosen it.

Ryea: From looking at Lilith costume, which is the most challenging part ?

A: The collar and the corset. I had no idea how to make the pattern for them as they have unusual shape. The corset has a figured cut, so I had to make a metal plate to keep the form. Besides it fixes the wings, so it has metall parts behind also. And the collar's pattern was a real problem. First I made something very uncomfortable. Now when I read comments where people worry that wearing the collar must be painfull I always smile. This collar is much better than the first monster.

Ryea: Which would be the most favorite part of the overall costume?

A: I think the claws and the wings. The claws are just beautiful. And the wings are so pleasant to touch as they are made from feathers.

Ryea: How long does it take to complete the whole costume?

A: It is hard to count the time now. About two months maybe.

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay Lilith?

A: I was the body art model in some parts of this costume on The Needlework Formula exibition in Moscow. There were no cosplayers there so people called me an angel, a fairy and so on all day long. And then one groop recognized Lilith's wings. It was such a surprise.

Ryea: Do you think it is a must to follow each and every detail from the original artwork when making a costume?

A: I think, if you are going to make something you need to do your best. Not only in cosplay. Sometimes you can make details more complicated if you know that it will suit the whole image.

Ryea: Some said that a true cosplayer always choose to self made the costume or props
instead of commission others to do it. If there is, they're just models not cosplayers.

What do you think?

A: I don't know why it is interesting to people to buy costumes one by one if they cosplay regularly. They lose one of the most charming parts of this hobby. The creation of new things. But I understand when someone who usualy don't cosplay and have no sewing skills orders the costume of his favorite character.

Ryea: How and what have you think you've improved from making Lilith Costume?

A: My perseverance and patience increased.

Ryea: Will you have more plans for Trinity Blood characters in the future?

A: I am sewing my Esther dress just now. I'll finish it in the end of the month.

Ryea: Any tips to share?

A: People arround you are your real treasure. Cosplay is a good occasion to make friends with them!

Thank you Adelhaid ~

Tumblr + Interviews

2012-01-05T04:27:00.002+08:00

Hi guys,

Firstly would like to thank everyone who're still following reading posts from this dusty blog. TwT
Been always busy and endless busy with life and others, never had time to sit down and post anything.For those, who've been always visit Let's Cosplay for more updates which I failed to do.
I'm really sorry.

To be honest, posting up and updating photos it's certainly a long tiring process.
Before a series is posted. Each and every photos are chosen by clicking and clicking and clicking from thousands of photos, then permission are asked one by one.
I would really love to share photos that really inspires the beauty and passion of cosplays instead of just randomly choose a really random costume-play. =/
As to be honest, because of this long and tiring process and my always busy life *lol* I always have thoughts of stop posting and just close it down since I never have the time to manage this blog. *negative thoughts*
Well, changes are only the thing keep my passion to continue sharing and posting these wonderful cosplays.

then here comes *Tumblr* which saves the days for 2012. haha
Now, I realize it's simpler to share photos in tumblr. I would just share a photo once in a time , instead of collecting much photos before a series is posted. And by that I wouldn't miss sharing out these awesome cosplays. Thus, from now on, if you seek for inspiring cosplay photos, do visit :
http://letscosplay.tumblr.com/

But then, sadly to say. All those previous post will be deleted soon to have more organized site for everyone in the future.

Few months ago, I started to interview cosplayers and photographers, instead of just featuring their photos here. I really did enjoy the whole process of interview, getting to know more about cosplayers, photographers, and learnt much from everyone too.
I'm never good in interviewing people, nor my language is good enough but their inspirational words does inspire me to seek for more and continue to do so =')
Therefore, I've decided that I will keep this blog and only for interview purposes.
http://letscosplay.blogspot.com/

As in simplify the whole long message , Tumblr - Photos ; Blogspot - Interviews

Thank you again to everyone,
because of you guys I'm now more passionate to share more about how wonderful cosplay is. =')

✩35ryo

2011-09-17T14:43:00.014+08:00

Ryeain: Seriously, I'm blown away by each and every of ryo's photo in is gallery.
The colour and composition of each photo captured your attention as if you were drawn

into the surrounding of the photo itself. Especially Hight School of Dead photoshoot,

the whole picture of it One word to describe, fascinating !!
A must to check on ryo's webpage gallery, much love!!~

✩35ryo✩
.webpage
. deviantart .

R: What type of camera do you use in capturing those awesome photos?

Ryo: I'm currently using Canon 5D MARK II.

R: What inspires you to start photography?

Ryo: My friends and I first started cosplay, but back then we do not know any photographers

to help us photoshoot our cosplay.
Thus, I decided to become the photographer and help my friends to shoot their cosplays.
I wish to capture the beauty of the cosplay itself.

R: What makes you want to continue in photography?

Ryo: Continuos ideas of cosplay photoshoot along with my group of cosplay friends.

R: Which is your most satisfied/favorite shot so far? why?

Ryo: Currently I don't have the most sastisfied work yet, because for me it's still an ongoing process.
Though NitamagoMix Hard-R.K.mix, is the longest work that I've worked on.
The background itself took me almost a month to complete as it is created using 3DMAX.
背景花了比较多的时间，大概一个月。背景是用3DMAX做的。

R: Which photo you've taken is the most challenging to you? why?

Ryo: High School Of The Dead.
This is much challenging compare to otheres, as this photoshoot requires more than

30 people to work together at the same time to capture the moment.

It's a big challenge no matter it's arrangement or management of people.
这一张是比较有挑战性的，因为要组织30多个人同时拍摄，不管是组织还是管理都有很大的困难。

I wish that I'm able to try much challenging photography, as I want to obtain differnt results
and of course the similar the photo with the orignal work the better it is.

R: What aspect do you think that you have improved a lot since you started photography?

Ryo: I'm now more integrated into the imagined comic composition, story telling and

the whole atmosphere of the photo.

R: What's your goal achievement in photography?

Ryo: My goal is to shoot lots of COSPLAY photos, and share out love for cosplay through photography.

R: Who do you look up to or inspires you?

Ryo: Hybridre and Bai917. They are my favorite photographer and they are cosplayers too.

R: Any advise to those are new starter or interested in photography?

Ryo: Try every possibility and ideas that you have in your mind, don't be afraid of

the insufficient of equipment and technology.

** R: I'm really impressed by the vibrant colours and effects of your photos.
Some photographers disagree to edit their photos, as it would ruin the originality of the photo.

*especially photoshop. What do you think?

Ryo:

I will ps some of my photo but not too many, as Photoshop has the ablity to achieve and

increase the fantasy elements and atmospher of the whole photo.
I'll process 1 or 2 sets of photos per week.

** Kirawinter :
How do you improve your technically skills?

Ryo:
Continuosly trying diffrent and new photography techniques and style, and keep on practising

your photography skills through photoshoot and others.
不断尝试全新新的拍摄方法，而且不停的拍摄。

----

Thank you Ryo!~

♥ Reika - Origami Tiger&Bunny

2011-09-15T11:36:00.006+08:00

Ryea : Thank you Reika again for replying my another interivew about her Origami Cyclone cosplay.

I felt that it's a must to share about her awesome Origami costume. So far, this is the best costume I've seen.

The craftmanship is good and a very wise material choice for Origami's costume.

And of course this work is nearly similar to the original one we seen in the anime!~

ORIGAMI [Tiger&Bunny] by Reika

Ryea: What attracts you to cosplay ORIGAMI CYCLONE from T&B ?

R: I love the works and I love the clothes production.
The design of ORIGAMI is excellent. Therefore, came the desire to make it.

Ryea: From ORIGAMI overall costume, which is the most challenging part?

R: It is the dirk on the back Origami's outfit.手裏剣！

Ryea: How long does it take to complete ORIGAMI (HERO outfit) whole costume?

R: It takes two weeks.

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay ORIGAMI?

R: It is a pleasure when the costume is completed.

Ryea: What have you improved after completing ORIGAMI's HERO costume?

R: Making a mask.

Ryea: In your opinion, do you think that a best cosplay must have much accuracy and similarity to the original artwork?

R: Following as much as the original is an individual liberty.
The original artwork is expected to be a good direction for the costume production.

---

Thank you so much Reika !~

♥ Reika - Barnaby Tiger&Bunny

2011-09-07T13:27:00.011+08:00

Ryea : *stalks* Yes I do really adores Reika's cosplays. And once T&B is released, I got really attracted to Reika's Barnaby.. somehow it does relates that how Barnaby would look in real life *w*

Although it's just a simple costume, but I really love how the proportion of the costume. As the shoulder is made wider so that it will shows a stronger male proportion =D

I know I've featured her before but now would like to feature her Barnaby cosplay, later will be her Origami \o/

Barnaby [Tiger&Bunny] by Reika

Ryea: What attracts you to cosplay BARNABY from T&B ?

R: Barnaby is my favorite type in all aspects.

Ryea: From BARNABY (casual) costume, which is the most challenging part?

R: Making the silhouette for Barnaby is the most challeng part.

Ryea: and what will be the most favorite part ?

R: Barnaby's entire silhouette.

Ryea: How long does it take to complete BARNABY whole costume?

R: The whole production time took only about three hours.

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay BARNABY?

R: I was invited to become a wig shop's model. ^^

Ryea: In your opinion, do you think that photographer is important to cosplayers?

R: YES！

Ryea: What have you think you've improved from since you started cosplay?

R: Willpower. Energy!

Ryea: Will there be any more future cosplay plans for T&B?

R: Yes. I want to make the hero suit of Burnaby in the future.

---

Thank you Reika !~

♥ Molly - Clare Claymore

2011-08-30T21:32:00.012+08:00

Ryea : The first thing I saw her photo was 'WOW'.

I'm do really impressed by the gigantic claw -is it what it's called.

Wouldn't be thinking that someone did cosplay Clare's awakened version.

The photography is also great that it able to capture the whole costume plus emotions -thumbsup to the photog!~

And the favorite part about it is that knowing she complete this costume along with the help from her father.

Ahh~ happy to see that cosplay is becoming a part of family activity.

Clare [Claymore] by Molly

Ryea: What is cosplay to you ?

M: Well, I would say it's my lifestyle or the way thinking.

Ryea: What attracts you to cosplay Clare from Claymore?

M: I like Clare's personality and her appearence. The costumes are also interesting.

And I'm the same height as her, haha!

Ryea: From Clare's overall costume, which is the most challenging part? why?

M: First, I thought it would be difficult to make huge claws of the left 'arm'. But after they were finished,

I realized that the real problem is coloring. May be because it was the last and the longest part.

Ryea: and what will be the most favorite part?

M: Making 34 small crosses on the left side, that are barely seen in the photos.

Ryea: How long does it take to complete the whole costume?

M: It took about 6 months to finish awakened Clare's costume - my longest cosplay ever!

For example, usual Clare's costume was made in 1 month.

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay Clare ?

M: When I was at the convention wearing this costume, I could walk through the hall only sideways

and people called me a crab, haha ))

Ryea: I'm really happy to see that this costume is made together with your dad.

What do you appreciate most through out this costume making process with your dad?

M: Dad knows a lot about materials and tools. Although most of the costume was made by me,

he helped a lot, for sure. Without his help this costume would never become real.

Ryea: How and what have you think you've improved from since you started cosplay?

M: I think I became more attentive to details. Because the details make costume look complete and beautiful.

Ryea: Any tips to share?

M: Just go and make it - your dream costume!

---

Thank you so much Molly !~

♥ YuuriK - Serah FFXIII-2

2011-08-28T17:10:00.018+08:00

Ryea : Eventually I know her through her sis YuuriC .. haha

Been seeing her Vanille FFXIII cosplay featured in some other websites too~ *thumbsup*

Love her props for Serah very much too =D

Here would like to feature her latest Serah Cosplay in Otakon 2011 !~

Serah [FFXIII-2] by YuuriK

Ryea: What is cosplay to you ?

YK: Cosplay is not a so expensive hobby and it is a way to dress up as my most favorite characters.

It also has become like a family vacation, I go to conventions with all my sisters.

Ryea: Why attracts you to cosplay Serah from Final Fantasy XIII-2 ?

YK: At first my twin sis wanted to do a duo. I was never really attracted to Serah, but while

I researched her I began to like her character, and the design of her outfit is quite extraordinary.

Ryea: From Serah's overall costume, which is the most challenging part? why?

YK: I think the most challenging part was making the bow-blade and getting the skirt’s top panel right.

Also, trying to figure out most of the Etro script (there was no good cgi renders at the time).

Ryea: and what will be the most favorite part?

YK: My favorite part was making the pouch – it’s functional!

I was able to put small items in it.

Ryea: How long does it take to complete the whole costume?

YK: It took me two-three weeks to finish the outfit and bow-blade.

My twin sis helped me a lot to finish the prop in time.

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay Serah?

YK: I have to say there was a funny experience at Otakon. A lady in her car stopped in the middle of the

street during a green light and just stared out of her car window at my sis and I with her jaw wide opened.

I was glad to receive so many nice compliments for my bow-blade.

Some noticed I had made the bow-blade with a few references and they were really impressed.

Ryea: In your opinion, do you think that good craftmanship means having much details on their work?

YK: I think whether the outfit /prop calls for lots of details or not it just needs to look right to determine

good craftsmanship. Sure someone who has lots of details on their outfit/prop will always get more compliments.

Ryea: How and what have you think you've improved from since you started cosplay?

YK: I think I have improved in the way I pose, sew, make-up, style wigs, and make props.

I feel like I still have a lot of space for improvement. Practicing on what I need to improve on helps.

Ryea: Any tips to share?

YK: I always say that everyone starts from somewhere. All a cosplayer needs is creativity, confidence,

and motivation. I believe every cosplayer gets better at cosplaying with practice,

for some people it would take time and lots of hard work.

---

Thank you YuuriK !~

♥ YuuriC - Lighting FFXIII-2

2011-08-27T19:51:00.015+08:00

Ryea : I came know more about YuuriC's cosplay was through her tutorial link on Lighting Costume.

Been following the progress till it's done \o/ [LINK]

It's really superb to have this chracter for first time making amour.

Cosplay is always about taking challege - I agree!

She and her twin sister , Yuuri-K cosplayed as Lighting and Sera in Otakon2011

which both characters are also sisters .. cute! ~ =D

Lighting [FFXIII-2] by YuuriC

Ryea: What is cosplay to you ?

YC: To me cosplay is a hobby where you have fun portraying your favorite characters/series and having fun with other cosplayers. It's also a family thing; both of my sisters enjoy anime, games, Japanese culture in general.

Ryea: What attracts you to cosplay Lighting from Final Fantasy XIII-2 ?

YC: At first I cosplayed Serah from FFXIII, because I found her so cute! Once I saw the new Lightning design from FFXIII-2, I immediately fell in love with it. I also began to like that badass character of her. So far, I enjoyed cosplaying her more than Serah.

Ryea: From the Lighting's overall costume, which is the most challenging part?

YC: It was my first time making an armor cosplay so it was a challenge. The hardest part was the pauldron and lower leg armor. In the end I made the pauldrons a bit too heavy. I had trouble getting the shape right. The method I used to make the lower leg armors was a pain to wear, I remade it twice and I still had trouble getting in them.

Ryea: and what will be the most favorite part?

YC: My favorite part was making the props. I didn't have much trouble with them.

It was actually really fun!

Ryea: How long does it take to complete the whole costume?

YC: I started early February after I completely sketched out the armor designs.

It took me about 6 months of on and off work to complete the entire costume.

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay Lighting?

YC: My first debut was at Otakon ’11 and I thought it would be my last after I endured so much pain.

The high heels shoes I used were a disaster and the heat during Otakon '11 was terrible (100+ degrees Fahrenheit)! Though with all that pain and heat, I had fun and I won't forget the memories. My first step down the stairs of my hotel made me crash to the sliding doors. My gunblade broke, I was upset and I was late to my shoot.

I laughed about it after. When walking to the convention I was basically laughing to ignore my pain.

I was so happy that I had many lovely FFXIII cosplayers take pictures with me.

The best moments were when I left people astonished that I used craft foam. It's nice to hear the positive comments from everyone, I won't forget them!

Ryea: I see that you used craft foam as the main material for Lighting armor.

Do you think that craft foam is the best material to work on for armour? or is there better alternatives?

YC: I haven't tried other materials yet, I found craft foam easy to use. My problem was the creases it made when wearing it. I've been searching on what to use to help it not give in. So far, I'm thinking of using fiberglass resin (epoxy) on top of the craft foam.

Ryea: How and what have you think you've improved from since you started cosplay?

YC: It all takes lots of practice. I think I've improved in many aspects since I started. I'm much faster at sewing and making props. I've also have become somewhat less shy with photographers and meeting other cosplayers. I'm still learning many new things, so there's a lot of space for improvement.

Ryea: Any tips to share?

YC: It takes patience, creativity, and maybe months or years of practice to make cosplays. But most of all motivation! Nothing is perfect, so nobody should stress themselves too much. Everyone should have fun with cosplay and stay with the right crowd that enjoys cosplaying. Never give up!

---

Thanks much to YuuriC !~

✩KiraWinter

2011-03-18T01:08:00.008+08:00

Ryeain:
Besides fangirl-ing her *coughs*howl*coughs* cosplay, Kira is one of those who I've often update with basically because I love the way she framed up the cosplayers in her photos, very straight forward and direct.

✩KiraWinter✩
.webpage
. deviantart .

Ryea: What type of camera do you use in capturing those awesome photos?

Just Canon EOS450D. I'm only a beginner, so I don't think that I need a lot of equipment that I cant even fully use. So I just slowly learning the basics of photography and hope, someday I will be good enough to be called "pro".

Ryea: What inspires you to start photography?

My love for cosplay. I was cosplayer for many years, but each time when I was looking in photos I got feeling that something isn't right, that I see only costume on photo, but there are no special meaning, I don't feel anything looking on that. So I've decided to try bring that feeling to life through my own lens.

Ryea: What makes you to continue in photography with passion?

Its so naturally for me, that I even didn't think about that. How to say... Sometimes, of course when I am very depressed I got thoughts like "You need to stop that, you just can't do something nice", but than shiny days come, and I don't give a damn, ahaha.

Ryea: Which is your most satisfied/favorite shot so far?

Each time have something nice inside. Its like small epic stories. Most remarkable for me is Hetalia shoot, on the field covered with snow, but it's more about working in group, that about result. Now I am in love with night shoot that we made at Chengdu with Vocaloid-Durarara!!! crossover.

Ryea: Which photo you've taken is the most challenging to you?

I like to take photos in the dark. So, when I try to do that, each time it's a challenge. You need to do it in a place without any lights, you must made it nice-looking, and finally find your model in the dark room! Of course its not that simple...

Ryea: What aspect do you think that you have improved a lot since you started photography?

I don't know. My weak point is Technic. I dot many crazy ideas, but technically I am not that good, so I am trying to work on that part. I can tell that I become better, but still long way to go.

Ryea: What's your goal achievement in photography?

To be a pro. To tell the truth, my biggest dream is start taking fashion-photos, but I am far from that.

Ryea: Who do you look up to or inspires you?

Basically people who I met. I look on their faces and all I want is too capture that beauty. For me everyone is pretty. I think there are nothing more inspiring for portrait photographer, that people themselves.

Ryea: Any advise to those are new starter or interested in photography?

I think you need to practice more and more. As Chinese people says "Failure is mother of success". So, even if today you made something bad, you need to try tomorrow, and the day after tomorrow, and the next day... and you will succeed for sure. Just believe in that. I saw a lot of people who got a very expensive equipment but cant do nothing with that. Just a plain photos... I think your own style is much more expensive than any lens. You can buy things, but can't buy talent.

** Itismoi : What do you think sets apart cosplay photography from the other portrait photography?

Cosplay is much more about pretty faces, I think. Only beautiful cosplayers usually considered as good one, people says that they "looks like characters" but I can call that "in our dreams we see anime characters as pretty person". Personally I prefer more artistic photos, that can describe much more about character, not only his clothes and face.

♥ Kamui

2011-02-22T17:37:00.036+08:00

Ryeain:

I'm totally blew away by Kamui, her craftsmanship. Seriously, just take a look at her AION Asmodian or her even Druid Tier 6 and others. These are the costumes that I would not have much patient on with the details. But the strong love and passion for the characters and costume is one of the main reason that motivates her to spend thousand of hours and efforts to complete these wonderful detailed costumes.

By interviewing her, I realized good cosplays is not about making a quantity but the quality of cosplay. And a word from her, 'PASSION'. Yes, cosplay for passion and it's the only thing that make us continue on this cosplay journey.

By the way, you guys should really check out Kamui's cosplay website for these awesome tutorials she made, really appreciate that she made a walk-through shares her experience about her costumes with everyone *thumbsup!

.Kamui Cosplay.

Ryea: What is COSPLAY to you?

Cosplay for me is a wonderful chance to live my dreams, work creatively and share my passion with others. And it's a way to prove myself.
Every costume consist of parts, first I need to find the right way to produce it. It's the result of a lot of research and development but it also goes hand in hand with failures and desperation. I have to fight with myself and to force myself never to give up or be desperate. And especially never to stop at one point in my evolution.
It's also very important to share my knowledge and experiences with others. I'm writing tutorials, holding workshops and trying to help everyone with their own projects. I guess, cosplay is not only a hobby, but a whole commnuity of people who love to work creatively.
For me it became something of a lifestyle and even changed my life. I'm not able to imagine a life without it anymore.

Ryea: When do you first started to cosplay?

It was in 2003 and I was just 17 years old.
My costume was the Great Saiyaman from Dragonball Z. The costume itself though was just awful! I used wrong and cheap fabric and everybody saw that I couldn't sew.
However it was a great idea to cosplay, especially because this made the convention even greater than it already was.
I still love the character so much that I've redone my costume last year!

Ryea: How many characters have you cosplayed so far?

They are not so many because most of my latest costumes took a lot of time and money. All in all there were:
-Great Saiyaman from Dragonball Z
-Moogle from Final Fantasy
-Nightelf Druid Tier 1 from World of Warcraft
-Nightelf Druid Tier 3 from World of Warcraft
-Priestess Rao from Okami
-Asmodian Gladiator from Aion (Tower of Eternity)
-Nightelf Druid Tier 8 from World of Warcraft
-Elyos Mage from Aion (Tower of Eterniy)

You see, for 8 years of cosplay it's really nothing spectacular, but I don't care about the amount of costumes. I've picked up very complicated costumes last time and spent several months to finish them, so it's just not possible to create more than 3 or 4 costumes every year.

Ryea: Which is your favorite character that you've cosplayed?

I'm really proud on my Asmodian Gladiator, but I love my Druid Tier sets much more.
It's just because I really love the character, it's story and and it's design. I myself play a Nightelf Druid almost since the release of World of Warcraft and loved them for all this time. So the Druid will be always my favourite one and I'll keep on cosplaying them.

Ryea:Which is your first character?

Like I said it was the Great Saiyaman, but I made this costume and even started with cosplay just because everyone else did it.
There was no passion and no love in this costume and I almost gave up cosplaying.
But when World of Warcraft was released I really started to find enjoyment in sewing, building and painting and the way I see it, my Druid Tier 1 was my first real character.

Ryea: Which characters is in your future cosplay list?

At the moment I'm working on Alexstrazsa and the Druid Tier 9 for me and my boyfriend from World of Warcraft.
I also wanted to finish a Demon Hunter from Diablo III and maybe I will even be able to create something further, but I won't start with it until I'm done with my actual projects.

Ryea: Do you make your own costume & props?

Yup, I create everything myself.
My boyfriend helps me sometimes by painting and I get help from many tutorials and progress blogs, but everything is done by myself.

Ryea: Which is your most satisfied prop/costume so far?

Journey's End is my big love.
I learned a lot of techniques by building it and there is something special about it. Probably it's because of the story behind the staff in World of Warcraft ,maybe all the work I spent making it or maybe it's the design. I don't know, but I really love this staff a lot.

Ryea: What is your favorite part when cosplay?

It's the constrution. It's awesome to create something by your own hand and just follow your creativity.
I love to work with new materials, develop new techniques and solve problems after many tries. And it's just great to see that I'm not alone with my questions, find nice tutorials or share my experience with others and help them with their stuff.
And at the end, when I see all my progress photos, it's just amazing to see how something starts so tiny, grows, becomes larger and gets a shape and color. When the last layer of vanish dried and everything works like it should, yeah, then I'm really proud of the work I've done and cannot wait to show it to the world. It's just an amazing feeling!

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay?

Yeah, I guess it was on the stage at Blizzcon 2009 at the dance contest.
It was very late and I was unbelivably exhausted, because I already had to wear my heavy leather armor and my staff for 12 hours straight and I just wanted to go on stage as fast as possible, to do my perfomance and go directly to the hotel afterwards.
In the last hours I had to stand in line and to wait for 2 hours; my feet burned like hell in my high heels and my body was just a huge chunk of pain. It was very, very hard trying not to collapse or even fall asleep right there on the ground.
Today I can't remember much of what happened when I entered the stage, danced and left the convention. I guess, it was just too much for my body, despite of it being just amazing to stand in front of 20000 people and a lot of other guys who watched the show on the internet. Ehm... I guess...

Ryea: How and what have you think you've improved from since you started cosplay?

I don't think that I improved my sewing skills so much, because they are still pretty bad. But I learned a lot: I know how to work with many materials, how to solve problems that cannot be solved, how to bring a character to live and especially how to share my knowledge with others.
I know a lot more about armor and prop making and found many friends and sources who can help me if I fail. I guess my biggest improved is knowing, what cosplay means to me: Never giving up, helping others and dream my dream. And everything I need will come by itself.

Ryea: Do you salute/idolize any cosplayer?

Hmm... there are many cosplayers and prop makes who do a really awesome work and I always follow their work.
My favourite one is Volpin, who is just dedicated prop maker and shows that he puts all his love into his project.
I learned a lot from his wonderful blog and always cannot wait to read the next entry. I'm very thankful for him sharing his progress and so I do the same and hope to help others with my work, too.

Ryea: Any tips to share?

Start with small projects and start early enough. Sewing the night before a convention is really frustrating, even if it can be really funny. Know how much time, money and effort you are able to spent and plan your projects well.
And the most important point is to search for help, tutorials and progress blogs. There is always someone, who worked on a similar project or costume part and even shared his work. If not, asked him! It can be very expensive and frustrating to fail and a project does makes much more fun, if you're sucessful.
And the last point: Be brave and never give up! If you really want to finish a well made costume, then you'll do it!

Ryea: Do you think great craftmanship is a person's talent or it's a result of long term practice ?

I don't believe in talent. But I believe in passion. If someone loves his project, he will try everything to finish it well made and if he doesn't have the skills, he will research, exercise and try until he manages it. I'm also very bad in sewing and painting, but I found ways to hide this fact or to get help and I will keep on working on my skills.

and 3 random questions :

1) What makes you interested in cosplaying armoured characters?

By chosing my costumes it's very important for me to find new challenges and to improve my skills every year.
I don't want to remain at the same level and so I try to experiment a lot and try new materials and techniques. That's also the reason why I look for hard, detailed or complicated costumes and for me armor and prop building is just perfect for this job.
However wearing them is -after some hours- mostly connected to a lot of pain and it's very exhausting and painful, but the construction process is amazing and just full of fun. So last year I really learned a lot. I even learned to ignore the pain of wearing an armor for hours till end.

2) How or where do you learn the skills of making those props and amour?

I love to experiment and research. I spent a lot of time in planning before I start with a project and I'm always motivated to create a costume as similar as possible to the reference material.
After years of practise I've learned a lot with the help from the internet and just by testing different materials and methods. Things often don't work as planned and sometimes I failed many times till I get right.
It's really not easy, but I start with my projects early enough to have a lot of time for my experiments. And that's all I did.

3) What kind of challenge do you see when you start making Aion?

The whole costume was a challenge. I never worked with Wonderflex before and had no idea if this material would work, but the tutorials said "yes". So I ordered some sheets and prayed that they were right.
After some tests I found the right way to work with it, but at the end I stood in front of a 20 pound heavy armor and had no idea how to fixate it onto my body. Many experiments later only I found a conclusion for it and it was the last night before the convention! and almost died because of the pain I got in this costume. Moving was almost impossible and so I had to redo the fixing, because I planned to fight in the armor for a cosplay performance.
I also never styled a wig before, but the hair style I had to create was very complicated. Ah, and I never worked with the kind of fabric I used before. I guess, I never worked with anything I used before for this costume!
Yeah, every part of the Aion armor was a huge challenge and so I'm really proud that I was able to finish it.

And lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay~?

I really love the idea behind Let's Cosplay and enjoy to read something about about other cosplayers a lot.
It's really interesting and I love the personal, non-standard questions you ask. I will keep on following this wonderful blog and hope to read something about more cosplayers and maybe even something about my friends.

Thanks so much Kamui for the wonderful answers, I bet you've helped to motivate others in making amour and props.. and that includes me !! Thanks!

✩Hexlord

2011-01-21T10:18:00.009+08:00

Ryeain:
Hexlord, I bet some of you guys have already know him through DA. Yup, I've been following on his cosplay photography too waaaaay before I started cosplay. Have always been loving the way he capture close up potrait photos. Love how he always plays with lights and shadows to create a suitable atmospher for the character.

✩Hexlord✩
.deviantart . daportfolio . multiply.

Ryea: What type of camera do you use in capturing those awesome photos?

In the past I was using the Panasonic LC43, the FZ30 and the Nikon D80.

Currently I use the Nikon D300s, with a compliment of lenses ranging from an ultra-wide zoom lens (11-16mm f2.8 Tokina) to a telephoto lens (70-300mm Nikkor f4-5.6). I also use prime lenses, consisting of the 35mm, 50mm and 85mm for most of my works.

Ryea: What inspires you to start photography?

I started out in photography after attending some of the Singapore cosplay events back in 2003-2004. After being invited to some of the photoshoots during that period of time by friends, I decided that it is not too bad to pick up a camera and learn a few things. :)

Also, with the advent of amazing things produced by cosplayers, what better way to showcase their works other than photography?

Ryea: What makes you to continue in photography with passion?

The world of photography is very vast. There's a lot to learn, things to explore... the possibilities are endless.

It is like chess, easy to learn but hard to master. For cosplay, there are also new series to encounter.

And in the process of learning more about photography, I can make new friends, travel the world, and experience new things!

Ryea: Which is your most satisfied/favorite shot so far?

The Puppet IV - I quite like it because of her outfit, the background that I have chosen, as well as the umbrella that she used. Red is nice too.
Burst Angel Broken Wings
Nunnally Her Endless Dreams
Sandplay Miku
The Moon King II
The Lone Wolf II
The World is his Stage

Ryea: Which photo you've taken is the most challenging to you? why?

My most challenging shot so far would be this shot The Tale of Odin's Daughter because of the extreme lighting condition presented to me during that time. Also, because of the strong wind it is not that easy for my friend to keep still!

Ryea: What aspect do you think that you have improved a lot since you started photography?

In the past I tend to be 'trigger happy' in taking photos and love to spend a lot of time behind the computer to 'fix' up the shots. Nowadays, I try to get it right during the photo taking stage, doing a bit of touch up at the post-processing stage.

I also have a better understanding of how light works, both natural and artificial, as well as the equipments used to achieve the effects required.

Ryea: What's your goal achievement in photography?

To make memories, to make people laugh, to inspire others to do better. I also wish to present cosplay photography as a serious genre, not as something that is easily dismissed by the rest of the photography community.

Ryea: Who do you look up to or inspires you?

Here are some of the people that inspires me, which by no means exhaustive.

John Raddell Rankin: http://rankin.co.uk/
Nick Brandt: http://www.nickbrandt.com/
Colin Bell: http://www.colinbellphoto.com/
Steve McCurry: http://www.stevemccurry.com/

Ryea: Any advise to those are new starter or interested in photography?

Never to be intimidated, to always learn from mistakes, and to practice often. There's really no special magic to it, everybody can learn and improve in their own photography!

Ryea: In your opinion, what defines a photo as an average photo and an awesome photo?

An average photo, is a photo that can be well taken in every technical aspect. It can even have a momentary wow factor, an instant gratifiying feeling.

But an awesome photo, to me, is something people can remember for years to come. Such a photo, defines the photographer who takes it, and goes beyond the mainstream. It can be unique, it can even be a shot that is not techically perfect. In short, a photo that can tell a thousand words (or tales).

Ryea: Lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay this site?

It is a nice site that showcases some of the most amazing cosplays around, with balanced coverage featuring the photographers too. I hope to see the site grow from strength to strength in the near future.

Thanks a lot, Hexlord !!~

✩Pu Kwong

2011-01-03T12:10:00.014+08:00

Ryeain:
Always creates the best atmosphere for his photos with the angles, colours and composition.
TTGL: Nia x Simon, real love that he uses blue as the back light as it brings the whole soft yet strong atmosphere.
Yuna_2, I'm moved by this photo, the scene is exactly touching. The colour, the photo coordination is just perfect ! *lovelove
Can't deny that his still life photography is equally fascinating, you guys should check them out!

✩Pu Kwong✩
.deviantart . blog . yamblog.

Ryea: What type of camera do you use in capturing those awesome photos?

Early(Mid 2007) I was using canon 350D, which is my sister camera, start off with 50mm f1.8 and 18-55mm kitlens and lately bought 85mm f1.8. Used it until 2009(June), return back to my sister, and saved enough money for my 1st own DSLR camera which is nikon D90. Now it pair with 35mm f1.8 , 18-105mm and 50mm f1.4D.

Ryea: What inspires you to start photography?

During college years, I have photography class for Basic of what is photography. And I was amazed by Lecturer photography, it can capture beyond human eyes limit, is like an art to me. So, I started to get interested in photography ( Mid 2007 ). During End of 2007 year, 1 of my friend is cosplayer ( Roxanne ), she brought me to explore the cosplay event at Taylor College 2007, and where everything related to cosplay passion started there !!

Ryea: What makes you to continue in photography with passion?

From the beginning, I was amazed by cosplay photography, as the beauty of the costume itself simply draws my attention to it 0.o~!!!! Later, I found deviantart, where I started to explore more on photography and art of course, thus it bring my passion towards photography even further until end of 2009. My sister saw my Deviantart photos and she said I should give a try still life photography, as a result, she showed me a lot of still life photography from flickr. I was totally stunned and amazed by those photography because they can just simply frame a interesting object of each shot, they art sense is simply awesome. Now my passion photography is more into still life photography while the second is cosplay photography.

Ryea: Which are your satisfied shots so far?

Digital Lomo - http://heroinekpk.deviantart.com/art/Evening-LOMO-84424097

P4 - http://album.blog.yam.com/show.php?a=lomomo&f=6553753&i=11103269&p=1

Ciel - http://heroinekpk.deviantart.com/art/Ciel-107112859
(Featured in Otacool2, thanks to Hoshi for visiting our CF event)

Yuna - http://heroinekpk.deviantart.com/art/Yuna-153049420

Setsuna - http://heroinekpk.deviantart.com/art/G-00-Setsuna-146789815

Gantz - http://heroinekpk.deviantart.com/art/Gantz-190477172

Ryea: Which photo you've taken is the most challenging to you? why?

Every shoot has it own challenge, it's always a challenge to find the right angle and feeling from the heart through the image.

Ryea: What aspect do you think that you have improved a lot since you started photography?

Photography observation, is the only main thing I keep want to improve on, combining with my current passions (still life and cosplay), both side helped me improve greatly.

Ryea: What's your goal achievement in photography?

To achieve greatest photography observation, to find out my own style, sit back and let the pictures tell the stories.

Ryea: Who do you look up to or inspires you?

Mayu - ttp://www.flickr.com/photos/mayu_/

Lefty - http://www.flickr.com/photos/12142152@N04/

ditteisager - http://www.ditteisager.dk/

miki - http://www.flickr.com/photos/rocamiki/

others are behance.net and deviantart.com

Ryea: Any advise to those are new starter or interested in photography?

If you like take pictures, it is good to understand the basic of photography(operate your camera, art sense, aperture, shutter, and other...). Without understanding well on basic things, you may not able to enjoy your photography. Every master out there will sure tell the same, master your basic photography. Everything is about the person behind the camera, not the gears. Unless you found out there is limitation on your gears for yours shooting...then only invest on the gears.

Ryea: In you opinion, an artistic eye or the camera equipments and gadgets, which is much more needed in creating a wonderful shot?

Camera equipments and gadgets do help to creating a wonderful shots in certain situation, example like night photography, fireworks and wild life. But, the one will create wonderful shot still the person behind the gears, because that person control everything to create that very moment wonderful shot.

** Question from Zeratul :
Cosplay photography is not main stream photography, what actually makes you truly think its worth your time and effort in doing it? What kind of returns are you looking at?

In photography world, there are many type of photography, each of it have it's own reward in return, like cosplay photography is one of the many type photography, I can't says is it 100% worth my time, but I will says it worth to shoot. I learnt many new things through cosplay shoot. Whether is it worth or not, the comparison between my earlier cosplay photgraphy and the currents ones, it tells the answer. Each cosplay shooting, I will set a goal for myself and I will take it as a challenge for myself to produce nice cosplay photos. In return, I gain much improvement on my photography observation, must feel gratitude to the one who bring me to cosplay world.

Lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay this blog?

Well, it is an interesting site to share a person feelings and thoughts. I'm sure many wish to know how others feelings and thoughts, good job site~~~.

Thank you so much PK!!~

♥ Kazeki

2010-12-31T20:30:00.012+08:00

Ryeain:
Kazeki, I've been 'stalking' her awesome cosplays way before I started cosplaying. I'm certainly impressed by her cosplays, always bringing it to a higher level. Her cosplay of Fatima from Five Star Story really did blew me away with the suit and even more epic headgear... and she did portray Fatima very well*lovelove

.deviantart . yamblog.

✩✩ INTERVIEW SECTION ✩✩

Ryea: What is COSPLAY to you?
Being able to bring a 2D character to the real world.

Ryea: When do you first started to cosplay?
2005

Ryea: How many characters have you cosplayed so far ?
-2005-
Komachi Mikumari - Samurai 7
Athrun Zala ; Zaft uniform - Gundam SEED *borrowed from Roxanne*
Soi Fong ; battle and taichou uniform - Bleach
Seth Nightlord ; ROM III novel cover - Trinity Blood

-2006-
Miranda Lott ; Exorcist uniform version - D.Gray-man
Dizzy ; battle form - Guilty Gear XX
Seth Nightlord (tea seller) - Trinity Blood
Athrun Zala; Akatsuki no Kuruma - Gundam SEED special OVA ending
Athrun Zala/Alex Dino - Gundam SEED Destiny *borrowed from Fenix*
Maya - Magna Carta Crimson Stigmata

-2007-
Soi Fong ;Captain version - BLEACH
Agito - Air Gear *borrowed from Sizer*
C.C. - Code Geass
Firi - Lamento ~Beyond the Void~
Ion Fortuna (Court Version) - Trinity Blood *borrowed from Skye*

-2008-
Dawn/Hikari from Pokemon : Diamond & Pearl
Shirayuri Hime - Zone 00
Sailor Star Healer - SailorMoon : Sailor Stars
Sharon Apple - Macross PLUS
Mercedes - Odin Sphere

-2009-
Sheryl Nome (Iteza gogo Kuji don't be late)
Kimihiro Watanuki - xxxHolic *costume borrowed from ElderG*
Kasumi - Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach
Chie Satonaka - Persona 4
C.C. (Mutuality artbook) - Code Geass
Meg - Bakuretsu Tenshi
Velvet - Odin Sphere
Gumi Megpoid - Vocaloid
Fatima Hugtrang - Five Star Stories

-2010-
Mita Makoto - Sweet Pool
Lady Gaga (Pokerface)
DEADMASTER - Black★Rock Shooter
Anti-Spiral Nia - Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann
Nia Teppelin (timeskip version) - Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann
Shimohira Reika - GANTZ
Beast - Kuroshitsuji

Ryea: Which is your favorite character that you've cosplayed?
Mercedes, Anti Spiral Nia, Fatima Hugtrang.

Ryea: Which is your first character?
Komachi from Samurai 7. Definitely too old for her now lol

Ryea: Which characters are in your future cosplay list?
More Magna Carta, I can't get over Hyung Tae Kim.

Ryea: Do you make your own costume & props ?
Costumes are usually tailored/modified but my props are made by Jarold and I.
I have awesome friends like Rain, Stick and Jac'kee that always help me out as well.

Ryea: What is your favorite part when cosplay?
Seeing a prop completed, wearing the full costume for the first time and I get very strange satisfaction when it comes to editing photos, I guess it's because I consider it the final touches of my cosplay.

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay?
Persona 4 - waking up at 3am to get ready for a long road to Sekinchan.
C.C. Mutuality - Got to cosplay with the amazing Kanasaii and Lenneth pair. I felt like the luckiest C.C. ;_____;
Deadmaster - Shiroin, my photographer, sunk his leg into a giant pit of mud during the shoot!!!
Gumi/Miki - Vocaloids drowning in the swimming pool is quite a sight.

Ryea: How and what have you think you've improved from since you started cosplay?
Definitely improved in every aspect from prop making to make up and of course *~editing photos~* BEFORE & AFTER

Ryea: Do you salute/idolize any cosplayer?
Omi Gibson http://en.curecos.com/profile/?ch=168966
HRM http://en.curecos.com/profile/?ch=20651
-aira- http://ja.curecos.com/profile/?ch=72312
Kanasaii http://kanasaiii.deviantart.com/
LennethXVii http://lennethxvii.deviantart.com/
Cvy http://cvy.deviantart.com/

Ryea: Any tips to share ?
Study, research, work smart, enjoy!

Ryea: Do you think as a 'qualified' cosplayer, it's a must to do everything without the help from professionals ; costume props and others?
If that's the case, a lot of us wouldn't be "qualified" enough to cosplay.
Some people just have strengths on certain aspects while others don't.

and 3 random questions :

1) Which convention do you like most in Malaysia?
Comic Fiesta

2) How much money do you spend on Seth Nightroad.. the outfit is such AMAZING piece!!
Thank you! I spent about RM1.5k, it pales in comparism to the Trinity Blood team that debuted at CF2010 though, that team was AMAZING.

3) What do you do in events?
Meet old friends and new ones. I don't really have much stamina for events though.
I do better in photoshoots.

Thank you so much Kazeki !!~

✩Itismoi

2010-12-23T00:33:00.012+08:00

Ryeain:

Movement. This is what I always sees in his photos. Bringing the characters as if in motion and alive. Love it !

Inscense - my favorite shot, the flow of this photo is captured beautifully.
Different attempt can be seen and he does improved a lot!! *thumbsup

✩ ITISMOI ✩

.flickr . deviantart . blog.

Ryea: What type of camera do you use in capturing those awesome photos?

Canon 350D, an old dslr camera that i bought about 6 years ago. I am so accustomed to it that it feels like i am not holding anything when i shoot. Sometimes i use my brother's film camera Canon EOS 300.

28mm and 50mm prime lens. I like wide angle lens because it forces one to be close to the subject, encouraging more interactions.

Ryea: What makes you to continue in photography with passion?

Looking at other people photographs and felt that "hey that is one way of looking at things" The unique and sensitive vision and eye of another photographer motivate me to seek my own.

The smiles of cosplayers when they look at the photos i took.

Ryea: Which is your most satisfied/favorite shot so far?

Well to me there is no favorite or best single shot. However there are certain photoshoots that i feel i have achieved something, like Honey and Clover, Mikuo and Ruki, Mori Girl, Sheryl Jamming and Kasuga.

Ryea: Which photo you've taken is the most challenging to you? why?

Every shoot has its own challenge. It is always challenging to tell a story through an image.

Ryea: What aspect do you think that you have improved a lot since you started photography?

First will be relationship with people though it still needs more improvement. I am introspective person who is often lost in thoughts in the inner world. Photography also trains me to observe more of the outside world.

Ryea: What's your goal achievement in photography?

To find out more about myself. A famous photographer once said "Every photo one made is a self portrait." The kind of subject matter one choose, the feeling the photographs evokes, actually tells more about the person taking the photo. Cosplay photography wise, sometimes it tells you how the photographer interpret the character he is shooting.

Ryea: Who do you look up to or inspires you?

Takashi Homma for his nonchalant style at taking tokyo landscape and teenagers.
Mika Ninagawa for bringing out the youthfulness and sweetness of girls.
Rinko Kawauchi for her observation of ordinary objects and natural phenomena.
Glen LuchFord for his cinematic lightings.
Hybridre for her take at cosplay photography.

Ryea: Any advise to those are new starter or interested in photography?

Ask yourself "Is it the camera gadgets that motivate you more or photography itself?" There is nothing wrong being a collector of gadgets but the interest in the act of photography itself will bring you a long way.

Ryea: Lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay this blog?

Great site to read more about fellow cosplayers and photographers thoughts that you cant find in other sites.

Thanks Itismoi !!~

♥ Yoru

2010-12-04T13:42:00.010+08:00

Ryeain:

I'm really impressed by her Bayonetta cosplay.. total look a like and which I can say is the best one so far. Indeed, she can pull off a feminine character to a manly character.. *points at Nier Cosplay
What I like about Yoru's cosplay is that it variated from simple to complicated character and also being able to bring out the character itself is another plus.

.deviantart. blog .cure.

✩✩ INTERVIEW SECTION ✩✩

Ryea: What is COSPLAY to you?

It is a pleasant hobby.

Ryea: What age start to cosplay?

I started at the age of 15.

Ryea: How many characters you have cosplay ?

Perhaps more than 80 characters.

Ryea: Which is your favorite character that you have cosplayed?

BAYONETTA,Hetalia,Devil May Cry.

Ryea: Who is your first character?

Randy(Angelique)

Ryea: Which characters is in your future cosplay list?

Bayonetta(Other costumes)
Syunya Yamashita's art book girl

Ryea: Do you make your own costume & props ?

I made most of it.

Ryea: What is your favorite part when cosplay?

The process and the moment a weapon is being made.

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay?

When I am cosplaying a game character ,I was able to meet the producer of that game.

Ryea: How and what have you think you've improved from since you started cosplay?

I became more particular about composition of a picture than before.

Ryea: Any tips to share?

Let's enjoy a cosplay! It is important that you enjoy it.

and 3 random questions :

1) Which is the biggest cosplay event in Japan?

Comic Market (Comicket)

2) What is the hardest part when cosplay Bayonetta? Your Bayonetta is AWESOME!! >w<

Thank you!It was difficult to make her beautiful silhouette of clothes.

3) Do you like cosplay female character more or male character?

There is charm in both^^

Apparently, Japanese society does not welcome cosplay as much as we thought. Is it true?
I am disappointed, but am true....
There are many people who regard a costume play as a strange hobby in a Japanese.
A friend and a relative also have many persons who make it secret.
But it could be accepted now more than before^^

Thank you Yoru !!~

✩Zerartul

2010-12-04T01:10:00.013+08:00

Ryeain :
A photographer that I'll always keep myself updated with his latest works. Always on the go for experimenting different styles, different angle and others *thumbsup

Plus, I'm totally fascinated too by the backgrounds that he includes in his most of his works.

It seems that the background combination does works well in every shots and in the end gives an awesome impact on the photo itself. Do check out his gallery for more!^^

✩ ZERARTUL ✩

.deviantart.

photos by Zerartul

Ryea: What type of camera do you use?

Started off with a Canon 300D, then 40D and finally 5DMk2. I use mainly prime lens of 24mm F1.4 and 50mm F1.4. They allow capture of low depth photography that works great for portraits. I also utilize a 70-200 F2.8 lens for compression of background. Ultimate the greatest difference lies in my love for the low light and night scenes which are somewhat different from the usual bright and vibrant which is something 5D mk2 can deliver.

Ryea: What inspires you to start photography?

My passion for technology. I started of photography not as a form of art, but as a love of high tech equipment lol. It slowly turned into something I enjoyed doing.

Ryea: What makes you continue in photography with passion?

I like to do photography as it allows me to keep track of memories and time. The occasion complements also keep my passion going really and of course some of the fantastic photo that turns out.

Ryea: Which is your most satisfied/favorite shot so far?

Its the latest but also something I am highly satisfied in a some time.

Ryea: Which photo you've taken is the most challenging to you? why?

Almost no light and photography is all about light!

Ryea: What aspect do you think that you have improved a lot since you started photography?

Mainly in looking for possibilities and imagining it. Imaging in the mind of what you expect to achieve. Photography is all about imagination and of course putting them into action and through experience this is one of the best thing that can be gained.

Ryea: What's your goal achievement in photography?

To take many nice picture, file them up and enjoy them for many years to come lol. I keep an A3 file for them and love it everytime I flip those huge pages. To me the greatest achievement is to look at those picture and say: Yes this is what I took!

Ryea: Who do you look up to or inspires you?

I dont really look up to anyone. To start with I came from an engineering background. What inspire me are not people, but the work that are produced. If anything, Hollywood movies inspire me most lol.

Ryea: Any advise to those are new starter or interested in photography?

Pick up the basics before anything. Read, observe and try is the best way to fortify those basics. With the basics done, imagination(and your equipment of course) is your boundary.

Question from Hybridre :
Have you been asked to imitate or copy another photo or fanart? If so, what do you think of it and what would you do?

Yes. It is common to be ask to follow such shots. However many a time, its impossible to actually replicate those shots really. Artworks do not follow the nature of physics usually. However I will still try to achieve as close of a feel to the artwork as possible.

Thanks Zerartul!! ~

♥ LithiumFl0wer

2010-11-25T18:59:00.009+08:00

Ryeain :

Am attracted by her Sheryl cosplays.. real good!!

[Macross Frontier-Medley] it does look as if real sheryl is recording in studio..awesome-ness

and of course, her crossplays are ..hawt too!~ *points rokudo Mukuro

Other than that, she's a superb photographer too! Her landscape shots are pretty!! ahh~

✩✩ INTERVIEW SECTION ✩✩

Ryea: What is COSPLAY to you?
Bringing something fictional to reality.

Ryea: When do you first started to cosplay?
2002

Ryea: How many characters have you cosplayed so far ?
I don't count them.

Ryea: Which is your favorite character that you've cosplayed?
Tough question! Hijikata Toshiro from Gintama if I have to choose.

Ryea: Which is your first character?
Sailor Pluto

Ryea: Which characters is in your future cosplay list?
More Sheryl Nome because I love her costumes!(*≧▽≦)

Ryea: Do you make your own costume & props ?
Yes. Most of my props are made by a good friend.

Ryea: What is your favorite part when cosplay?
When I looked into the dressing mirror after putting on the wig, makeup and costume.

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay?
Taking pictures with many cute children when I am cosplaying as Sheryl Nome. I guess all little girls want to be a pop star when they grow up!(＾▽＾)

Ryea: How and what have you think you've improved from since you started cosplay?
Thicker makeup now haha (｀∇´)

Ryea: Do you salute/idolize any cosplayer? Who?
I admire many people for their dedication to the art.

Ryea: Any tips to share?
CosPLAY. Never take out the play. If it isn't fun, don't do it.

What do you think the basic requirement a cosplayer should have?
I don't believe in this if you take cosplay as a hobby.

and 3 random questions :

1) Do you prefer more in crossplaying? *Alto is real hawt!!
I don't have a preference actually. It all boils down to if I like the character and his/her design.

2) How long does it take for Myoubi's makeup? *it's really epic eyelashes just like the manga
I took quite awhile to achieve that!

3) Do you like photography too? The landscape shot is very nice *thumbsupupup
I love taking pictures of beautiful things!

And lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay~?
Great site! Hope to see more cosplay photos on your site ヾ(＠^∇^＠)ノ

Thanks so much LithiumFl0wer !!~

✩Hybridre

2010-11-20T12:34:00.019+08:00

Ryeain :
Serious love for Hybridre photography style!~
Love how every photo is fulled with story and emotions, as if the character come to live.
Day and Night shoots are captured spectacularly and angles are of course perfectly captured too.
Indeed a very young age with great achievements, can I say it's talent? but yes, behind those awesome photographs does lies a whole long journey of learning process.I fav more than a single shoot in the gallery.. you guys should really take a look !!!
Oh ya, a great cosplayer too =D

✩ HYBRIDRE ✩

deviantart . blog

photos by hybridre

Ryea : What type of camera do you use in capturing those awesome photos?

I mainly use my cannon 400D
with a lens and a 50mm 1.8 lens, sometimes my friend 4j would borrow me a 16-35mm2.8 or 12-24mm4.5 lens, I'm totally a wide angle fan XD

Ryea : What inspires you to start photography?

The eager to capture the touching moments of my friends.

Ryea : What makes you to continue in photography with passion?

The achievement of bringing those surreal characters into reality,
words can't express my joy when I managed to restore my favorite works with the right composition, lighting and location setting.
Besides, cosplay is a good way to deepen the relationship with my pals, we had great fun and knew each other better at the same time.

Ryea : Which is your most satisfied/favorite shot so far?

I have to say there're many shots I love but it's difficult to pick out the best one.
I tried different styles according to the works and it's impossible for me to compare between totally different things. I may want to leave this question to you guys XD

Ryea : Which photo you've taken is the most challenging? why?

The experience of taking BACCANO shoot, upon a real train at night.
And shooting APH battles, within a heavy snow are probably the most impressive memories for m, both are under very very tough environment and there wasn't any thoughts in my brain at that time, I just pressed the shutter on instinct. It was great fun though~

Ryea : What's your goal achievement in photography?

Keep creating something new and interesting~

Ryea : Who do you look up to or inspires you?

www.pixiv.net - you can fild all styles of pictures in this site
Dogs by Shirow Miwa - I learn a lot from the storyboard, the special angles, how to shoot fighting scenes, etc. I feel my soul and aesthetic sense resonate to the work in many ways.

Ryea : Any advise to those new starter or interested in photography?

Try as many ways to take photos as possible, and own one or two distinct style~
Step out of your comfort zone, delete those exposure correctly and composed steadily but flat and dull photos. Editing is important too.

Ryea : Lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay this blog?

It's like a magazine about cosplay to me, it's trilling for me to be featured XD

Thanks Hybridre !! ~

♥ SoranoSuzu

2010-11-20T10:21:00.016+08:00

Ryeain :
SoranoSuzu's Fraken Stein is superb, the scar itself attract me the most !! Such manly! *lovelove
The one I like most is her Ion Fortuna *points 2nd photo, details all the way; the photo angle, the lighting, the pose and the character itself.. kudos to the photographer too!!
Yes, indeed a lot of improvement can be seen through out her cosplays.. good job!~

✩✩ INTERVIEW SECTION ✩✩

Ryea : What is Cosplay to you?
S: Cosplay for me - the best hobby.
It's the way for showing my ambitions in role-playing, way for embodying my actor skills and my sewing skills plus other making skills. I love to make something by my hands and to act on the scene - so cosplay is perfect hobby for me. I love to create not just costumes, but full images of my beloved characters, which I like to look alike.

Ryea : When do you first started to cosplay?
S: About three of four years ago. My first festival was Animatrix in Moscow, January 2007.
Before that my cosplays was non-public and soooooo far from perfect, oh my...

Ryea : How many characters have you cosplayed so far ?
S: Not a lot of, about thirty characters.

2007
◦Shion Uzuki (Xenosaga ep.I)
◦Allen Walker (D.Gray-man manga)
◦James Potter (HP)
◦Claus Valca (Last Exile)
◦Watanuki Kimihiro (xxxHOLiC art vers.)

2008
◦Kuujaku (RG Veda)
◦Luke fon Fabre (Tales of the Abyss)
◦Starlock Simon (Tengen Toppa Gurren-Lagann)
◦Death the Kid (Soul Eater)
◦Watanuki Kimihiro (xxxHOLiC manga vers.)
◦Rolo Lamperouge (Code Geass R2)
◦Chikusa Kakimoto (KHR!)
◦Rukia Kuchiki (Bleach)
◦Komui Lee (D.Gray-man)
◦Kaworu Nagisa (Neon Genesis Evangelion)
◦Soul Evans (Soul Eater)
◦Albert de Morcerf (Gankutsuou)
◦Franken Stein (Soul Eater)

2009
◦Kirakishou (Rozen Maiden)
◦Sora Halloweentown (Kingdom Hearts II)
◦Watanuki Kimihiro (xxxHOLiC another art vers. xD)
◦Itoshiki Nozomu (Sayonara, Zetsubou sensei)
◦Aoyagi Ritsuka (Loveless)
◦Light Yagami (Death Note)
◦Mashiro Kuna (Bleach)
◦Wang Yao/China (Axis Powers Hetalia)

2010
◦Simon (Tengen Toppa Gurren-Lagann jail vers.)
◦Elizabeth (Shin Megamo Tensei - Persona)
◦Ion Fortuna (Trinity Blood - Thores Shibamoto art vers.)
◦Ashura-O (RG Veda)
◦Shion Kaito (Vocaloid - Imitation Black vers.)
◦Syaoran (Tsubasa:Reservoir Chronicle, art vers.)

Ryea : Which is your favorite character that you've cosplayed?
S: It's hard to name just one, because I love 90% of my cosplay character - and 10% I cosplayed just with interest.
There is three of my very favorite characters - Franken Stein, Simon and Watanuki Kimihiro. They're the best I think and they're mostly loved by me.

Ryea : Who is your first character?
S: Shion Uzuki from Xenosaga.

Ryea : Which characters is in your future cosplay list?
S: I don't want to reveal all secrets - I love surprises ^^
but I can say for sure that in the future I'll cosplay Nero from Devil May Cry 4, George from ParaKiss, D from Vampire Hunter Dloodlust and someone else ^^

Ryea : Do you make your own costume & props ?
S: It's about originals? No, I study in designers university and have absolutely no time for interesting originals.
All my non-cosplay works are designer's collections, historical costumes and other works like that.

Ryea : What is your favorite part when cosplay?
S: It's always small details, wigs and contact lenses ** I'm in love with them all and making small stuff like little hats, bracelets and masks - in other word, all decorating work - is pure joy for me!

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay?
S: Every time I cosplay I learn something new and interesting - like how regular and boting things can be useful for my costumes and stuff.

Ryea: Do you idolize any cosplayer? Who?
S: Yes!
Astarohime&Emperor - http://astarohime.deviantart.com/
Cvy - http://cvy.deviantart.com/
Tamarpg - http://tamarpg.deviantart.com/
Astellecia - http://astellecia.deviantart.com/

They're the best! *0*

Ryea: Any tips to share ?
S: The main thing in cosplay - it's always try to do everything perfectly, from very beginning.
And, of course, a lot of love for cosplaying character and your work. Try to do as many small cosplay details as you can, that's every time bring character to life more and more.
Dream and try - not just dream! And all of plans and wishes will come true perfectly.

and 3 random questions :

1) Is Ion costume hard to make? which part took the longest time to make?

S: Not very hard, but a little... long. I've spent a month for this costume, it's really long time for me. The longest time to make... I think it's hat, but at the same time it's my favorite part of costume.

2) Franken Stein's scar is so real ! What kind of materials you used? any tutorial?

S: There are no difficult tutorial for that scars - I've made them prom cotton wool and medical glue. And make-up of course. Nothing very special ^^

3) Do you prefer more in crossplaying? You do well in crossplaying *thumbsup

S: Thanks! *0* I love crossplaying because it's always more difficult than just cosplay.
More difficult - more interesting.

Ryea : And lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay~?
S: I've just heard about this page, but I've looked it through and find it really nice, informative and interesting ^^

Thanks so much SoranoSuzu !!~

✩Kazex

2010-11-14T04:55:00.014+08:00

Ryeain :
Yes, 'Hell Comes Swiftly' is indeed a piece that make me stares longer and saying the angle is perfect. There's strong yet soft side of this photo, the flow of the scarf captured is my favorite part of the whole photo. And the other piece 'Encore', amazed me as if time stopped for a second and has the movie feel of it.. serious LOVE!!~ Love how he tend to play with different lighting throughout his photography *thumbsup!

✩ KAZEX ✩
http://kazex.deviantart.com/

Photos by Kazex

Ryea : What type of camera do you use ?
I use a Canon 5d Mark2 right now.
Some of my earlier pictures were lit using flashguns, but i've moved on to strobes by Elinchrom now. All my pictures have been processed only with Lightroom 2/3. Sadly i don't know how photoshop works.

Ryea : What inspires you to start photography?
I started around 2 years ago, when i was 17.
Back then it was the school holidays, and i didn't feel like staying at home just playing video games, so i decided to try photography. My first purchase was a clunky Praktica MTL-50 - back then i was only interested in B&W film photography.

It wasn't easy because i didn't have any friends nor anyone else i knew who was interested in photography back then. I learn everything through books, magazines and the internet.

Ryea : What makes you to continue in photography with passion?
In photography, everyone has to develop their own signature style and look.
Once i mastered my technical, i proceeded onto the next step, finding an identity for myself and my photography.

An identity stretches beyond simply how a picture looks.
It's born of a photographer's instinct, taste, and philosophy. I always liked art, but could never draw well with a pen. Being able to reproduce the visuals i can envision in my head excites me every tim i pick up the camera. I slowly found myself addicted to photography and how both complex and simple the art form can become, pushing the boundaries between what other photographers think can or cannot be done.

Ryea : Which is your most satisfied/favorite shot so far?
That would be Hell Comes Swiftly
or Encore coming in at a close second.

Ryea : Which photo you've taken is the most challenging to you? why?
That would be Encore.
Both me and the cosplayer were standing underneath falling water at a fountain, with our legs soaked shin-deep in the water. The longer we stayed there, the more water would get on my lens and equipment. So it had to be done very quickly.

Ryea : What's your goal achievement in photography?
To be a Hasselblad Master.
Every year, the prestigious Hasselblad brand holds a competition for different genres/categories of photography for photographers all over the world.

Ryea : Who do you look up to or inspires you?
Tommy Oshima ,
Henri Cartier Bresson,
and various painters around the world, such as Kazu Shimura

Ryea : Any advise to those are new starter or interested in photography?
Photography is a long, thought-out process.
Certain images may be created in ways which are more than meets the eye. Simple pictures can be created with much complication, and complicated pictures can be created with simplicity. There is no right or wrong as to what you use to recreate your visions, but only one's principle behind each picture.

Our pictures are all valued in different ways - do you know what makes yours?

Ryea : Lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay this blog?
It's a great site with comprehensive features and such ^^

Thanks so much Kazex !!~

♥ Kizuna 宵月

2010-11-11T12:39:00.015+08:00

Ryeain:
Yup, she's the owner of Fantasy Sheep, one of the famous wig shop in taobao.
Couldn't deny that FS wig quality is great and both the style is nice too!
Has always been the top choice for cosplayers.
Of course, she herself is also a cosplayer.
I'm really in love with her Nura cosplay, both character and location is great plus epic hair !!

✩✩ INTERVIEW SECTION ✩✩

Ryea: What is COSPLAY to you?
K: It's my hobby and also my job.
是爱好，也是工作。

Ryea: When do you first started to cosplay?
K: 2002
2002年

Ryea: How many characters have you cosplayed so far ?
K: actually there's more but couldn't remember more.
结城夏野（尸鬼）
招兵买马（荒川爆笑团）
高木秋人（BAKUMAN）
桂木桂马（只有神知道的世界）
巡音ruka（JBF）
奴良滑瓢/奴良陆生（滑头鬼之孙）
Akira（咎狗之血）
平和岛静雄（DRRR！）
金久保誉（StarrySky）
翔子/美波（笨蛋测试召唤兽）
Yuli（pop n'music8）
伊良部一郎(中) （空中秋千）
Gian Caliro（LuckyDog1）
贝阿朵莉切（海猫鸣泣之时）
王耀（APH）
土方十四郎（银魂）

Ryea: Which is your favorite character that you've cosplayed?
K: Kaito (Vocaloid)

Ryea: Which is your first character?
K: Female Rogue (RO online)
女流氓（RO online）

Ryea: Which characters is in your future cosplay list?
K:
玉章（滑头鬼之孙）
系色望（绝望先生）
直井文人/小由理（Ａｎｇｅｌ　Ｂｅａｔｓ）
初音miku

Ryea: Do you make your own costume & props ?
K: Some but can't remember already.
有一些，不记得了=A=

Ryea: Which character costume/ props you like the most?
K: I really like Vocaloid family's
Vocaloid家族的都很喜欢^^

Ryea: What is your favorite part when cosplay?
K: Editing photos part after photos are taken, feels like everything is worth it after tiring for so long and now it's time to see the results.
拿到照片开始做后期的部分，感觉辛苦总算结束了现在来看成果=w=

Ryea: Any memorable experience when you cosplay?
K: Couldn't remember much.
不太记得了（咦）

Ryea: Do you have photoshoot experience? What's the difference between going for events and photoshoots?
K: Yup, for photo shoot we're able to invite more friends and photographers for help, plus we can choose our own location for photo shoots. As for events are some how activities and location are very limited, time is also one of the problem.
有的，外拍可以多请一些朋友和摄影师给自己帮忙，还可以专门找独特的背景拍，event则比较限制活动和场地，时间也是个大问题。

Ryea: Which is your favorite location for photoshoot?
K: My house backyard, because it's an antique type garden, it's very convenient.
自家小区，因为是旧式花园小区，景色很多拍照也很方便XD

Ryea: Do you salute/idolize any cosplayer?
K: 龙一、Raye、sadako、tokiwo

Ryea: Any tips to share ?
K: From the minute you decided to cosplay the character till the photo result is out,
must do much research on the character, if there's anything that doesn't understand always seek for help from the experienced, and also must relax and enjoy the fun of cosplay.
从开始决定cos一个角色到最后出照片，都要认真参考原作，有不懂的多向前辈学习，然后就是放平心态享受cos的乐趣。

and 3 super-random questions :

1) Which fashion genre do you follow?
K: Go with flow.
随意有质感

2) Do you like insects?
K: I like butterflies but I seriously hate caterpillars.
喜欢蝴蝶，讨厌毛虫一类/ A \

3) What is your favorite flavour?
K: Cherry and Strawberry
樱花、草莓

Ryea: And lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay~?
K: Awesome!!
很棒

Thanks so much, Kizuna!~

♥ LALAax

2010-10-29T23:22:00.018+08:00

Ryeain:
I really love her Nura, especially the wig !!~

and her name Lalaax sounds familiar to me until I click into her gallery.

Ah yes! It's the Bernard Otolani that blew me away with the awesome suit and background.

and this this THIS ...isn't it .. *nosebleeds*

✩✩ INTERVIEW SECTION ✩✩

Ryea: What is COSPLAY to you?

L:Cosplay is a hobby, a way to express love for the character.

COSPLAY是兴趣爱好,对角色喜爱的一种表现

Ryea: When do you first started to cosplay?

L: 7 years ago.. around 2002-2003

7年前,是几几年来着...2002-2003左右

Ryea: How many characters have you cosplayed so far ?

L: In 2010, there's many ...

近来是说2010年内吗?不少呢...我数数看

DRRR - Izaya

Nurarihyon no mago -Nura Rikuo

LUCKY DOG1 - Bernardo

KHR - Rokudo

KHR -Squalo

KHR - Tsuna

DOGS - Haine

Letter Bee -Lag Seeing

Ryea: Which is your favorite character that you've cosplayed?

L: I'm a universal love person~~ I'll cos the characters I like, in other words the characters that I've cosplayed are the characters that I like the most in the series.

我是个很博爱的人呀~~~喜欢的角色我都会COS,换句话说我COS的角色都是最喜欢的.

Ryea: Which is your first character?

L: HUNTER X HUNTER - Chrollo Lucilfer

Ryea: Which characters is in your future cosplay list?

L: There's to many... the latest one probably is Nura Rikuo from Nurarihyon no mago.

太.多.了...最近的应该是滑头鬼之孙的奴良滑瓢

Ryea: Do you make your own costume & props?

L: Props are all self made, costumes are tailor made but add on the details myself

道具都是自己制造的,服装是在裁缝店定做然后自己加工

Ryea: What is your favorite part when cosplay?

L: The making process and when photo shoot with friends

制作的过程.和朋友一起拍摄的过程(愉快的气氛)

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay?

L: Once, due to rushing Final Fantasy 12 Rasler 's amour have not sleep or eat for 3 days 3 nights... suddenly realize human has unlimited potential and became superman.

曾经3天3夜不吃不喝不睡,一直原地不动的在赶制最终幻想12 RASLER的盔甲...突然发现人的潜能无限大自己变成超人了!

Ryea: Do you salute/idolize any cosplayer? Who?

L: I like everyone's cosplay they're awesome

大家的COS都很棒我都很喜欢哦!

Ryea: Any tips to share ?

L: Everyone just enjoy cosplay, this is an interesting activity~! Don't give pressure to yourself!

大家请轻松的玩COSPLAY吧,这是一个很棒很有趣的活动~!不要给自己压力哦!

and 3 super-random questions :

1) How many contact lens do you owned?

L: A bunch, if counted ... there must be over 30 pairs.. but of course thrown some away due to expiry date.

一堆,硬要数的话...30对以上肯定有的,不过很多过期了就扔掉了.

2) How long can you stay in your house without going out?

L: If there's food. =v= 2 to 3 days

只要有食物.=V=2-3天?

3) Your favorite food?

L: I love to eat all types of food! Welcome feeding me!

什么都喜欢吃!欢迎喂食!

Ryea: And lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay~?

L: It's an awesome page! I will always visit here!

是个很棒的网站呢!我会经常逛逛的!

Thanks Lalaax!!~

♥ Yabesuke 矢部佐

2010-10-17T23:13:00.010+08:00

Ryeain:
My goodness, I'm seriously attracted by her Ciel. One of the best I've seen.The feel of Ciel is there!!

Not to mention some of her other cosplays is nice too as her gallery has serious lots of photos!

Anyway, I never knew it but if you guys noticed.. she was the Naruto which many websites post up long time ago. =D

✩✩ INTERVIEW SECTION ✩✩

Ryea: What is COSPLAY to you?
Y: I think that is a life and an attitude for me.

Ryea: When do you first started to cosplay?
Y: Thirteen years old.

Ryea: How many characters have you cosplayed so far ?
Y: about 40~50, not including my original characters.

Ryea: Which is your favorite character that you've cosplayed?
Y: 謝爾 Ciel ヽ(●´∀`●)ﾉ

Ryea: Which is your first character?
Y: 通靈王-葉王

Ryea: Which characters is in your future cosplay list?
Y: Special and sexy male character.

Ryea: Do you make your own costume & props?
Y: Friends make for me(´∀`)ﾉ

Ryea: What is your favorite part when cosplay?
Y: looking at the props that make by myself.

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay?
Y: There are all sorts of people here, especially the extreme cosplayers. I've had a lot of bad experiences, such as people talking behind my back about me, and other things like that...

Even though I can laugh about it, it still hurts. Even though cosplaying is fun, it really isn't that easy, and getting slandered is just... But I've also met a lot of great people, which I count myself lucky for.

Ryea: Do you salute/idolize any cosplayer? Who?

Y: I admire 泣花冥 and 黑崎影.

Ryea: Any tips to share ?
Y: It's nothing if you're not having fun.^^

and 3 super-random questions :

1) How old are you?
Y: I'm 22.

2) Do you have a pet?
Y: I have a really old dog that I live with.
(´∀`)ﾉ狗!!!!love!!

3) What is your favorite food ?
Y: Simple foods! bitter chocolate, milk and chocolate oatmeal.

Ryea: And lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay~?
Y: "Let's Cosplay is fun. It's great."(´//∀//`)ﾉ

Thanks !~ Yabesuke!!

♥ Cvy

2010-10-03T01:41:00.014+08:00

Ryeain:

I first found out about Cvy was her Soul cosplay through deviantart browse.

I'm surprised to see such look a like of Soul .. her expression is priceless!!~

I've been away from cosplay for a period of time. And when I came back and begin hunts for awesome photos,

Her Steampunk White Rabbit blew me away .. AGAIN!

and knowing that all the costume and props are all made by her ... *SALUTE!

You guys should check out her gallery.. trust me, you'll blew away by the details she did on her costume and props !! ~

(DEVIANTART:GALLERY)

✩✩ INTERVIEW SECTION ✩✩

Ryea: What is COSPLAY to you?

C: An extensive display of what you love in a series or character.

Ryea: When do you first started to cosplay?

C: 2003

Ryea: How many characters have you cosplayed so far ?

C: I don't count them xD

Ryea: Which is your favorite character that you've cosplayed?

C: Many. To name a few it would be Soul, Death the Kid, Sandplay Rin etc

Ryea: Which is your first character?

C: Gaara from Naruto, my love for him was so massive he was the reason why I have started cosplaying.

Ryea: Which characters is in your future cosplay list?

C: Rin, Len and Miku, oh damn, is all Vocaloid

Ryea: Do you make your own costume & props ?

C: I made most of them from scratch. Is much easier naming ones I didn't made; Okita's shinsengumi uniform, Finland's uniform and Ciel's coat and shorts carousel version - base was made but I modified it to accuracy later.

Ryea: What is your favorite part when cosplay?

C: When it is a successful portrayal, and if you are in a team made up by friends is a huge bonus because is terribly fun.

Ryea: Any memorable experience when you cosplay?

C: I went to Taipei for a cosplay convention and it was so different from our culture. They are well-mannered and organized, we have so much to learn from them, especially in cosplay etiquette. But I can see Singapore improving year by year.

Ryea: Do you salute/idolize any cosplayer? Who?

C: Mostly friends XD Like Kanasaiii, Shuui and Lenneth. But I salute many other (or any other) cosplayers too for their superb efforts/workmanship.

Ryea: Any tips to share ? *for those new cosplayers

C: Think of cosplay as an entirety:

-1- study the character you should love, its costume and mannerism

-2- a good, proportional and accurate costume with the RIGHT materials

-3- a good styled wig

-4- an appropriate makeup accordingly to the character

-5- a photographer to help you do justice to your hard work and capturing a shot that is convincing in portrayal.

You have to think of the whole picture and not missing anything out as much as possible. Is a lot of work but it will be worth it, believe me.

and 3 super-random questions :

1) Do you have a pet?

C: Nope

2) How many pairs of shoes do you have now?

C: I have to deliberately point out that I have 5 pairs of Converse shoes

3) What is your least favorite colour?

C: Green

Ryea: And lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay~?

Love the image in your header. Look forward into seeing more interviews.

Thanks so much, Cvy !!~

♥ Koshinaka

2010-09-18T23:22:00.014+08:00

Ryeain:
Koshinaka's Madame Red is the first that attracts me to take a look deeper into her gallery.
The feel that she bring out is really looks in Madame Red in posses!
Anyway, after a look through her gallery. Her cosplay are quite amusing!
Then, I saw her Beast from Kuroshitsuji and Paine from Final Fantasy XII cosplay
.. OMG total look a like.. *speachless.
I'm really glad that I'm able to future and interview her!

(DEVIANTART:GALLERY)

✩✩ INTERVIEW SECTION ✩✩

Ryea: What is COSPLAY to you?
K : Cosplay is a very important hobby to me!
I cannot imagine how my life would be like if I never cosplayed! XD

Ryea : When do you first started to cosplay?
K : My first cosplay was at Fantasia 2003. It was the end of year event at Singapore Expo.

Ryea : How many characters have you cosplayed so far ?
K : Haha, oh gosh, I don't even know if I can remember but let's see.

Anime/Manga:
Angel Sanctuary, Barbelo (Private Shoot)
Peacemaker Kurogane, Okita (Cosfest 2004)
Peacemaker Kurogane, Hijikata (Osaka 2009)
Bleach, Renji (Cosfest 2005)
Trinity Blood, Mary Spencer (EOY 2005)
Prince of Tennis, Niou Masaharu (Private Shoot)
Prince of Tennis, Fuji Syusuke (Private Shoot)
Rurouni Kenshin, Battousai/Kenshin (Private Shoot)
Soul Eater, Tsubaki (Private)
Soul Eater, Giriko (Private)
Slam Dunk, Rukawa Kaede (Comic Fiesta @ Malaysia 2008)
Kuroshitsuji, Madam Red (SOY 2009 & Private)
Kuroshitsuji, Beast (Private)
Kuroshitsuji, Sebastian (Private)
Toki wo Kakeru Shoujo, Makoto Konno (Private)
Ouran High School Host Club, Hikaru Hitachiin (Cosfest 2009)
Samurai Deeper Kyo, Shinrei (Cosfest 2009)
Gundam Wing, Trowa (Private)
Code Geass, Suzaku (AFA 2009)
Code Geass, Lelouch (Code Geass event, Tokyo)
Ookiku Furikabutte, Abe Takaya (Private)
Nodame Cantabile, Masumi (AFA 2008)

Game:
Final Fantasy X-2, Paine Warrior Ver. (Fantasia 2003)
Final Fantasy X-2, Paine Matsuri Ver. (Summer Tonacos Event 2010, Tokyo)
Final Fantasy X-2, Yuna (Private Shoot)
Final Fantasy 8, Seifer (Private Shoot)
Final Fantasy 12, Ashe (EOY 2004)
Final Fantasy 10, Lulu (Streetfest 2005)
Final Fantasy 7 Advent Children, Sephiroth (Cosfest 2006)
Final Fantasy 7, Tifa Lockhart (AFA 2009)
Final Fantasy 13 Agito, Girl with the Scythe (Private Shoot)
Final Fantasy 7 Dirge of Cerberus, Rosso (EOY 2006)
Final Fantasy 4, Rydia (EOY 2008)
Final Fantasy 2, Ingus default (Private)
Final Fantasy Dissidia, Tina Bradford
Hakuoki, Harada Sanosuke (Winter Tonacos Event 2009, Tokyo & Private)

Jrock/VK:
Dir En Grey, Toshiya Myaku Ver. (Streetfest 2004)
Gazette, Ruki (Private Shoot)
Alice Nine, Shou Akatsuki Ver. (Streetfest 2006)

yep, I THINK that is about it~

Ryea : Which is your favorite character that you've cosplayed?
K: Do I have to choose one or can I choose a few?
I really love most of my Final Fantasy cosplays especially Paine, Tina and Ingus!

Ryea : Which is your first character?
K: Paine's warrior image from Final Fantasy X-2

Ryea : Which characters is in your future cosplay list?
K: haha it's going to be never ending, but for now..
- Final Fantasy 13, Fang
- Kingdom Hearts Birth by sleep, Terra
- Final Fantasy 8, Shiva
- Chaos Rings: Escher or Ayuta
- Final Fantasy 4, Edge
- Final Fantasy 6, Amano Tina

Ryea: Do you make your own costume & props ?
K: I make all my props but as for costumes, some are tailored.
There are too many to list so I'll list some of the memorable costumes and/or props that I've made (due to lots of time and effort spent):

- FFX-2, Paine warrior :
first time working with wood as well. (look at my dA description for costume/prop details)
- FF7DC, Rosso :
Imported fur from the states, had to remake weapon cos it was too heavy that it broke into 2.
- FF3, Ingus:
Another memorable one. Armour was a killer but it was worth it! <3
- FF Dissidia:
Made it in a night! Shoes, costume, weapon & wig! Received lots of help from Cvy & Kanasaiii.

Actually all of my Final Fantasy costumes and props are made with lots of love! ^0^
Yikes am I going out of topic?

Ryea: What is your favorite part when cosplay?
K: The sense of satisfaction from completing the cosplay outfit and definitely meeting fellow fans!!

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay?
K: oh wow. Plenty!

I mean I've made so many friends from Cosplay, learnt how to sew, take pictures, pose and a lot more!

I remembered my first Cosplay event very well. It was much smaller as compared to the events nowadays. The community was very much warmer and welcoming as well.

I went dressed to Fantasia 2003 and was warmly welcomed by fellow fans shouting and fangirling over my character! I was really happy and at the same time relieved that my character was recognizable! It was an amazing virgin experience!

Private shoots are a whole lot of fun as well, especially when done with a bunch of good friends! My first overseas photo shoot was at Cameron Highlands with Cvy, elpheal and gk-reiko. We had A LOT of fun being in character and enjoying the scenery! We didn't have a photographer with us and had to rely on Cvy's tripod and remote!

I also experienced my very first night shoot when Shiroin from Taiwan came to Singapore! Night shoots are difficult because of the lack of light but we still managed to complete it!
What happened during the night shoot is explained under the description.

Finally, I think my most memorable shoot would be last year's Hakuouki shoot done at Edo Village, Nikko, Tokyo. It was winter, snowing and freezing as we did the shoot!

Ryeain: Do you salute/idolize any cosplayer?
K: Definitely!!

- Kanata
- Kanasaiii
I really admire and respect the time and effort she puts into her props and costume.
AND it always turns out perfect!
- Cvy
I don't think I need to say more, just look at her site!
- Drefano
- Amatasu
cos his sephiroth is brilliant!

Ryea: Any tips to share ?
K: Practice makes perfect. No one is perfect the first time round.
Be open to criticism because it helps one to improve.

But most important of all, enjoy what you do. Do not Cosplay for the sake of gaining recognition or to be popular. Cosplay because you love the character & the hobby!

and 3 super-random questions :

1) Do you have any obsession?
Haha YES! Λucifer（リュシフェル), especially the vocalist Makoto Koshinaka (thus my nick >_<). Everything about them! They were a band that was created for the anime Kaikan Phrase. They have disbanded but recently had their 10th Anniversary live tour (one time only T__T) last week at Akasaka Blitz in Tokyo! <3<3<3

2) Which is your favorite Anime?
K: Ok this is difficult. Can I list a few again? >_<
Slam Dunk, Rurouni Kenshin, The girl who leapt through time, Ghibli animes, Flame of Recca, K: Kimi ni Todoke & Angel Santuary

3) What language of songs do you listen most?
K: I listen to an equal number of English and Japanese songs.

Ryea: And lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay~?
K: I think it's awesome! Good to see the site back up again! It is a good way to introduce Cosplayers from all over the world! Keep up the great job!

Thanks to Koshinaka !!

♥ 麗華 REIKA

2010-09-08T13:04:00.021+08:00

Ryeain :
'When I first found out about her was her cosplay of Snow from FFXIII.
It was the best snow cosplay I've seen.. seriously.
yeap.. that's how I get my way to her gallery and again..
I got attracted by her stunning cosplay series of Hijikata Toshizo from Hakuouki.
What I really like about her cosplay, is the details of the costume itself..
just take a look at her Cid Rains, Harukanaru Toki no Naka de and others.
and one more thing I like about her cosplay gallery is that every photos is taken with
the correct mood, lightning, angle and background.. Kudos to the photograhper as well.
Please do really take a look at her gallery, maybe you'll be amazed just like me ! ^^

✩✩ INTERVIEW SECTION ✩✩

Ryea: What is COSPLAY to you?
R: Expression of one's love

Ryea:When do you first started to cosplay?
R: I started cosplay at the age of 16.

Ryea: How many characters have you cosplayed so far ?
R: 100 or more

Ryea: Which is your favorite character that you've cosplayed?
R: 薄桜鬼：Hijikata Toshizou

Ryea: Which is your first character?
R: Shinsengumi (Rurounikensin)

Ryea: Which characters is in your future cosplay list?
R: Inazuma Irebun

Ryea: Do you make your own costume & props ?
R: I make my own costume.

Ryea: What is your favorite part when cosplay?
R: Silhouette of clothes

Ryea: Any good/funny/memorable experience when you cosplay?
R:When I'm cosplaying one of the game character, I actually met the voice actor of the character.

Ryea: Do you salute/idolize any cosplayer? Who?
R: Not in specially. Anyone.

Ryea: Any tips or words to share?
R: Costume play is a wonderful hobby.
I hope for the thing that everyone enjoys and has fun with cosplay.

and 3 random questions :

1) How many wigs do you have?
R: 12

2) What is your favorite colour?
R: Purple

3) How tall are you ?
R: 163cm

Ryea: And lastly, what do you think about Let's Cosplay~?
R: I like it very much.

Thank you to Reika for willing to spend some time to answer my questions ^^