Cosplay 101 How to Get Professional Photos

When I began cosplaying in 2006, I was amazed by all of the professional photos I found on the internet of outstanding cosplayers from around the world. Photography was one of the things that drew me into cosplay. The art of taking photos not only captures a fictional character come to life but helps tell a story. It takes someone with a creative eye and true talent to capture a shot (not just someone with an expensive camera). My first cosplay was Aerith Gainsborough from Final Fantasy VII. I started out taking pictures with a standard point and shoot camera. I didnt know anything about photography or modeling and wished there was a how-to guide to getting professional photos done. Now that I have several years experience both as a cosplayer and a professional model, I want to take this opprotunity to helps others with three easy tips.

Tip #1: Create an Account on Model Mayhem. This site will get you connected with photographers in your area by searching through the casting/travel section. Model Mayhem is a community for models, photographers, makeup artists and other professionals in the industry. I have to stress how careful you have to be on this site. There are creepers who are anything but professional. I highly recommend immediately blocking anyone who gives you any trouble. NEVER go to a photo shoot alone. Always bring someone with you (say that your companion is your assistant) and dont buy into the "I work better alone" excuse. A real photographer wont have issues with other people on set. Dont give out your phone number until you confirm everything in writing via email (date, location of the shoot, theme and compensation). Be sure to work out the details on what compensation you will both be receiving whether you are paying the photographer or doing a trade. I have met some wonderful photographers through Model Mayhem and have even been hired for modeling assignments. But there have also been major disappointments . Be sure to ask and sign a Model Release Form. If they dont provide one,  create your own. Search Google for tips and feel free to email me: cosplay.girl@yahoo.com  Remember to be fair; both parties who are coming together for a creative project must be satisfied.

Tip #2: Network in the Convention Community.  There are plenty of online communities for conventions where you can connect with other cosplayers and photographers. Do a search for a show you want to attend through Facebook and see whats going on. Many shows have group gathering photo shoots organized by attendees. They sometimes
include special guests such as comic creators or actors. Photographers sometimes set up a booth or have a meeting place at a show where they offer sessions with cosplayers.

Tip #3: Buy a Professional Camera. It costs a pretty penny but its worth it. If you own a professional camera then you can take high quality photos at your will. You can use a tripod or have someone you know and trust operate the camera for you. If you cant afford one, purchase the highest quality point and shoot camera available on the market. Ive had photos taken with a point and shoot camera such as my Red Riding Hood collection that Im pleased with.  I would also advise in investing in some sort of Photo Shop program. You never know what you can accomplish while experimenting with the program. It also comes in handy when you have to do something quick and easy like removing a blemish.

I hope you found my quick guide helpful. Have fun and Happy Cosplaying!

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Interview Artist Des Taylor

Des Taylors stunning superhero pin ups have become one of the hottest things to hit the web! Collectors are scrambling to own pieces of his original artwork which have received international recognition and praise. Combing the beauty of vintage photography with earths greatest heroes results in some of the most exquisite artwork I have ever seen.  Read on to learn more about this acclaimed British artist in my exclusive interview for the Confessions of A Cosplay Girl Blog.



Victoria: Tell me about your original creation, Vesha Valentine? What inspired you to create her? What is she about?

Des: The Vesha Valentine Story tells the story of this fictional bombshell who rockets to stardom on the strength of her beauty, charm and talents. Begun as an art book, The Vesha Valentine Story began to take shape in his mind when I was commissioned to use the character in a series of displays for Theo Fennell’s (the UK’s jeweler to the stars) Christmas Window display in 2009. It was from there that my thoughts began to veer towards a more story-driven project for the cartoon beauty. My love for the screen sirens like Rita Hayworth, Monroe, Garbo and Anne Margaret inspired me to put out a book that was different to what was out on the shelves.

Victoria: What projects are you working on right now?

Des: Oooooohh! The return of my first character Katie Rogers at the moment in the OGN THE INFAMOUS KATIE ROGERS. This will be taking up most of my time this year followed by Legend of The Blue Lotus which is sort of a retro-crime-fighting character.

Victoria:  Did you attend art school?

Des: Yep! Did a Foundation Course in Art Design and Graphics then went on to West Herts college to get a Diploma in Graphic Design and Image-Making. Word of advice to anyone wanting to pursue a career in design... forget sleep and ALWAYS hit your deadline!

Victoria What made you decide to merge pin-up and superheroes?

Des: It was a conscious decision looking at all of the DARK themed comics that are on the shelves at the moment. Too much! They are not the type of books I read growing up and not the type I shall be introducing to my little ones. Early last year I created a Pin Up Wonder Woman which sparked a frenzy on the web so I thought why not explore re-imagining some other characters too.

Victoria: What conventions will you be appearing at this year?

Des: Did a successful stint at KAPOW! London and I shall be at San Diego Comic Con and Thoughtbubble in Leeds this year.

Victoria: What are your thoughts on the New 52?

Des: Oboy! Gotta be honest...not a fan! Too dark, twisted and sexual (except the Batman/Owl story arc which is exceptional) and I cant get to like the characters like I did in the past. I understand you have to re-boot your characters every decade but this reboot was not thought out well. Superman... who I LOVE... I cant get to like the new high collared costume with the heavy boots. Wonder Woman... costume..not bad but the comic is not giving WW fans what they want and dont get me started on Detective Comics. Where is the detection? DC could have used this to show Batmans detective skills like a comic book CSI Gotham. In all, the whole line is aimed towards adults and there is nothing left for the kids, the next generation of consumers. I looked at the comic for Voodoo and half of it is of her stripping in a strip-club?????

Victoria:  Are you looking forward to the Man of Steel Superman reboot film?

Des: I am. Iif anything just to see the big-man up on the screen again. LOVE Superman films, even though the last one didnt really do well there were still a few things I liked about it. Im sorry though, the AVENGERS was the best super-hero film I have ever seen. The whole experience with the audience whooping and hollering just added to it. We all came out of that in tears of laughter at the Hulks antics. Brilliant, and cant wait for the sequel.

Victoria:  How long does it take you to create a work of art? Whats the creative process like?

Des: Well...I wake up at the crack of dawn ( have a 4 month old baby I use as an alarm clock LOL) and start to sketch, then go back to sleep for an hour or two, when I wake up and start inking, scanning the artwork, rendering and then coloring each character. I then work like an animator placing each element where I want them and then determine the environment, lighting and mood. Its a bit tedious on some occasions but I am happy I have developed a style people love and have gathered a loyal following .

Victoria: Where can people order prints and commissions of your art?

Des: People can go to my site http://www.despop.co.uk/ to purchase what is up there, for something unique or if they see an image they like on my blog or Facebook page...just ask! Drop me a mail! However, I only do short runs of designs, even 1 of 1. I like that very few people own a Des Taylor print or sketch.

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