COSPLAYING is an artform that encourages individuals to dress up and reenact their favorite fictional characters, and oftentimes conventions are held in the Philippines to further showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of these role-players.
With so many characters to pick from in anime, comic books, cartoons, video games, TV series, and other mediums, picking an outfit could be a daunting experience.
Add the usual anxiety associated when dressing up as a character in public places, as well as the logistical issues involved, and cosplaying can also be a stressful endeavor.
However upon entering the convention halls, the experience could reap some life changing rewards.
And here in the Philippines where there are countless of conventions and cosplay festivals, how does one enter the scene?
How does one venture into cosplaying?
Taking that first step is oftentimes a challenge for those who aspire to become cosplayers. Could you imagine yourself wearing a costume inside a mall where the public eye could judge you?
Are you confident enough to dress up or even go as far as portraying a character to the public?
In an exclusive with SPIN.ph, GMA Network's Myrtle Sarrosa gave her advice to those who wish to start their journey saying: "Yung biggest tip talaga for those who are starting out in cosplaying is to really go for it. If you like a character, you wanna cosplay them, just go for it."
For first timers, the jitters of dressing up as a fictional character in front of the public could be overwhelming, however the art of cosplaying should never be defined but what the public thinks.
"Honestly yung nagiging hurdle para sa mga tao to actually start cosplaying is naiisip nila na, 'What will other people think,' but at the end of the day, cosplaying is showcasing your love and passion for your favorite character."
Where to get outfits?
There are many avenues for cosplayers to look for outfits and props to wear for a convention. One of the easiest methods would revolve around purchasing from online stores, with Shusheng.ph and Holoun.ph, being one of the most recommended shops.
However some outfits may not be available on these online shops, and the measurements may not be the perfect fit for a cosplayer's body frame.
And if a cosplayer wishes to be creative (e.g. introduce some special lighting effects in their outfits), it would be best to contact a professional cosplay designer.
In the Philippines, the likes of Gelo Grayson, Solibeau, Doki's Costume, Eptah Cosplay Rental, and SJ De Ocampo are some of the most prominent figures in the scene, and there are other indie designers who can also cater into a cosplayer's needs.
However there are also those who would rather challenge themselves by designing their own outfits from scratch. This will require a lot of time and effort spent on studying the art of sewing and conducting research to get the details done.
In designing an outfit, not every fabric needs to be purchased outside, as Myrtle even told SPIN that she even gets some of her materials from inside her house.
"Ako marami akong low cost cosplays na hindi alam ng mga tao, but it's just pulling together some fabrics that you can find in your house and using it to create your character."
Getting exposed
As mentioned earlier going to conventions and events are key to showcase your love for cosplaying. For starters, small events like Ozine Fest and Cosplay Blitz could serve as a litmus test to slowly gain confidence, and eventually they could translate their craft to major headliners like Cosplay Mania (CosMania), as well as the gaming or esports events held in the SMX Convention Center.
These events would also feature photographers who are willing to create reels and assists newcomers to build their brand on social media, hence it is important to forge a deep connection with them.
And speaking about social media, this is a weapon that every aspiring cosplayer could utilize. Showcasing one's outfits and posting them online and sharing it across cosplay groups is one method to grow one's reach.
But it is also important to also bring your own personality into the mix. Powerlifter and cosplayer Nyaati would oftentimes post videos and photos of her workouts, while Charess would go over the top with her shenanigans online.
The importance of the community
But at the end of the day, cosplaying is still a hobby and as mentioned earlier it could be a life changing experience especially when interacting with the community.
Chances are a random congoer will grab a selfie with you, which could brighten up your day. Just ask Myrtle who revealed how she found the strength to showcase her love for the craft.
"Makikita mo there are so many people who will cosplay their favorite characters and yun yung motivation ko talaga even back then when I started because every time I see the smiles on the faces of people who recognize who I'm cosplaying, it really inspires me to continue cosplaying," reflected Sarrosa.
It may seem like Sarrosa already had the natural flair and panache to begin with especially now that she has reached multiple universes with her outfits.
But like many of us who tried stepping into the scene, she was filled with a lot of jitters.
"So it's really bringing out your confidence. I remember when I first started cosplaying, I was nervous stepping out into the convention hall and na-realize ko na it's amazing, it is such an amazing feeling to be surrounded by the same type of people who appreciate this kind of fandom," she looked back.
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