Cosplay: Everything you need to know

Cosplay or costume play is a performance art where cosplayers/cosplay artists dress up like a character from an anime, manga, video game, etc. Cosplay is quite popular in East Asian countries but can be found around the world.

Cosplayers need to put in a lot of work into each cosplay. Some even take it to the next step by roleplaying the character. Cosplaying takes a lot of time and other resources, but it’s worth it. Some do cosplay for their passion while others do it as a profession.

“Cosplay community is full of artists and people who are passionate about their work and it needs more exposure but it needs GOOD exposure.”, says Aorin Shariyari, an Indian cosplayer who has been cosplaying for over 10 years now. 

Convention Cosplay:

Convention Cosplay is cosplaying at gaming events, comic conventions, etc. There are no merits such as good or bad cosplay in convention cosplaying. Convention cosplaying is done for your own pleasure. It is a little different from competitive cosplay.

Competitive Cosplay:

In competitive cosplay the artist enters a contest where he competes against other artists to determine the better cosplayer.

Competitive cosplaying involves a lot more preparation such as extensive research, making the costume, make-up & more.

Rules of the competing change from contest to contest, but usually competitive cosplay requires the artists to do a self-made cosplay. Making a costume can be difficult because sourcing the material is a challenge in India, and a lot of materials that are easily available in other countries are not available, hard to find or overpriced in India. Still, you will find many cosplayers that suggest you make your costume yourself, and if that’s not possible, then commission it from other cosplayers.

Competitive cosplay requires a lot of hard work, time and other resources. It is not just about dressing, but also about adopting the body language, mannerism, accent, etc. of the character they are portraying.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many cosplaying competitions have moved online.

Now let’s talk about what other opportunities are available for cosplayers apart from competing in competitions for making a living.

Cosplay as a career:

Cosplayers are hired as show hosts for game launches, events like Comic Con & ESL, or other big game conventions. 

When asked about problems faced at events, Aorin Shariyari replied, “Events can be super hectic for Cosplayers as there aren’t enough resources available to Cosplayers. Basic needs like a changing room or a place where we can store our luggage can be a massive issue if you don’t have a cosplay helper with you. Many events seem to forget about that sadly.”

Is it possible to make a full time career as a cosplayer?

Cosplaying as a full time career in India is possible but can be quite difficult due to the lack of opportunities. We asked Aorin Shariyari & Zerah “Angela” Gonsalves to share some insights on it.

“When it comes to cosplaying, it’s a very niche space. Being successful working as a cosplayer is a tough job.”, says Zerah “Angela” Gonsalves, On-Air presenter and esports influencer who also has cosplayed in the past. “Only take up a career in this field if you are ready for it completely. Making it a secondary source of income is an easier way to go about it. It’s difficult to make a mark and it’s even harder to get regular gigs to make it a full-time job.“

“With limited cosplay opportunities many cosplayers struggle to get work & recognition while there are few out there who exploit the situation”, says Aorin Shariyari, a professional cosplayer.

How to start?

Find a character you love and start researching about them on the internet. For instance their backstory, their traits, culture, etc. Watch a few cosplay tutorials, and go attend a few events as a cosplayer.

“Attend as many conventions as you can.”, says Vipin “Arcane” Aryan, Cosplay Manager, NODWIN Gaming. “Don’t be shy, interact with cosplayers as much as you can. Pose for pictures in the halls and attend or participate in events like cosplay contests, panels, and games like cosplay chess. Find out if there’s a fashion show at the convention you’re attending, and participate in it if at all possible.” All of this will help you grow your network.

Try making some friends at events. You can reach out to other artists for guidance. You can also look up a few cosplay groups on social media and start interacting. Networking is the key here just like it is in any other profession. There’s a lot to learn, a lot to stay aware of, but if you really enjoy cosplaying, it will be a fun experience for you no matter what.

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