Cosplay Models: Real life Japanime characters

Cosplay, or "costume play" is the art of dressing up as Japanese animation, video game, or manga (comic book) characters. Though this previously unheard of hobby is slowly becoming a household name as TV networks like MTV, G4TV, and various print media have recently featured cosplayers. This sudden media frenzy has many in the modeling industry scrambling to hire what many have come to consider anime and video game characters in the flesh.

Cosplayers are now being pursued by many companies, like ADV Films, for promotional and print opportunities that were previously filled by agency models. Their ability to re-create fantastical costumes and portray their chosen characters with accuracy is what's fueling the switch from the standard promotional models of the past that were merely 2-D reflections of the characters they were hired to exude. This recent trend has even become apparent in such venues as E3, that were once dominated by "booth babes", but have now become a mix of both agency girls and cosplayers.

This trend has gone even beyond just the promotional portion of the modeling industry. Cosplayers have been embraced by professional and semi-professional photographers and other modeling industry professionals as they seek cosplayers to expand their portfolio. Many photographers seeing the rising popularity of this art are now in works to produce coffee-table style books featuring cosplayers. Numerous semi-professional photographers are also offering photographs of cosplayers as prints for both anime and art collectors alike.

Japan's burgeoning anime industry has long been home to the "professional cosplayer" since the rise of Comiket, Tokyo Game Show, and other such powerhouse conventions. The interest necessary to develop such a profession here has long been desired, but unfulfilled until recent years. It's entirely possible in the near future that we shall see cosplayers that call their art a career, as opposed to just a hobby.

Anime conventions war

What is in a Convention? This Article is for those that are into Anime/Manga (or Science Fiction and Fantasy as well) but are Not exactly sure about going to a Convention. Hopefully this article will diffuse any fears or uncertainties.

Before I start, Let's Just say...I was there. I am in your shoes right now. I recently became an Anime Fan. I did actually say "I think those Anime people are strange" even though I am a full fledge Sci Fi/Fantasy Geek. I did not even realize.

First off. What IS a convention? Well, it is a Gathering of like minded people (mostly) that share in the same interests as each other. They are Just like you. Some are more intense then others. It is a Place, where you can meet others that share your interests. But it is not JUST a social Gathering (but a big reason for going is that draw). They also have workshops. Classes on various things you can learn or explore. Want to know how to be a better manga artist? Or Maybe you thought about breaking into the Voice over industry? Or maybe you just want to make Plushies? There are workshops for everything.

Then there are discussion panels. On Different Topic's. From Your favorite Anime, to Ninja's vs Pirates. Some may get pretty wild! Some Conventions have Musical Guests as well, giving a Concert for everyone to see. Maybe your Favorite J-Rock Band happens to be there! Also, a convention isn't worth its salt, if it doesn't have its celebrity guests. From Artists, to Voice over Actors, to Directors. You name it. Meet them in person! Get an Autograph. Have Lunch or Dinner with them.

SHOP! Yes there are plenty of places to buy all sorts of stuff. From Toys, to Games, to Plushies, Manga, Tools, etc. Whatever you are looking for. See if someone is selling it. Also along the line, The Artist Gallery can sell some specialty items as well. Meet new aspiring Manga Artist!

Video Games! Get a Chance at the latest and greatest video games. Or show off your killer combo or new moves. Challenge other like minded people in games that you love.

Screenings! You can actually WATCH anime. But beyond that, you can also watch some Japanese Drama Series or Action Movies in Subtitles. Every convention is different. But You can get a chance to see things that you may not even know exists.

Oh and Did I say Cosplay? Go check out peoples costumes! Partake in the Cosplay Chess (or get involved and show your favorite characters awesome moves). Or Do a Skit with your favorite characters, Or...just people watch. You will see quite clearly that there are MANY people that love the same characters as yourself.

Some conventions have LARPS (Live Action Role Playing) as well as Game Tables to play turn based board games, or D&D, or card games. The best way to describe a Convention is a Mini Vacation away from the world, to enjoy things that you want to enjoy with others. To meet those that feel the same way you do. To have FUN!

Not only am I a reporter of such things...but I am a client as well! I cosplay as Kakashi-Sensei from the Show Naruto. So, if you are lucky, you may see me around posing and doing skits!