Cosplay photo shoots take practice and I’ve learned a lot since I started this hobby 10+ years ago. Back then, a friend would grab a camera; we’d go out into the woods and awkwardly try to make it work. We still do that, but with more variation and much better planning. In this post, I’ll talk about the preparation process and some personal tips.
Mood boards and inspiration
Make a mood board! I am an avid fan of Pinterest and for every photo shoot I go on, I create a board with poses, colors or art that inspires me. It is a good way for me to get into a space where I can start translating it to something I can do – like how to make a certain pose work for my body, ideas for locations and character expressions. Remember to ask permission and give credit if you use a piece of fanart as direct inspiration!
I usually send the mood board to the photographer a few days before and make sure to point out the poses and ideas. Use this to discuss the limits and possibilities and make sure you are both on the same page in regards to your expectations. Sometimes, the ideas will be overflowing. Therefore, it’s also a good idea to make a priority list and save the last ideas for another time.
Props and poses
Practicing poses is a really valuable way to prepare for your photo shoot. It might feel silly, but it’s a great way to get comfortable with your angles and teach you how to pose, so you don’t tense up on the day. Go stand in front of your mirror and practice away. Sometimes music is great to get inspired for this. I’ve even used music as a way to practice crying (which I did on a video shoot a few years back). It took me several years to get comfortable, but now I definitely prefer being in front of the camera rather than behind it.
See something cool with a prop you would like to try? Bring it along! And depending on your location, try to work with the environment. Props can be a great way to make posing feel more natural. Pack a few the night before, so you’re ready to go.
Photographers from left to right: ZarsuDK, Marquard Photography and Alo.pus
Tell a story
Now that you’ve prepared your poses and props, it’s time to tell a story. Use your expressions to create a tale; whether it’s a unique idea that you want to bring to life or inspired by the media you’re cosplaying from. On previous occasions – after I’ve gotten the perfect photo to showcase the costume – I’ve gotten down and dirty; AKA ripping costumes apart, gotten covered in blood, wiped makeup across my face or jumped in the ocean. The sky is the limit (with safety in mind). This can be a fun way to challenge yourself and use your cosplay in a different way. It requires various repairs and cleaning afterwards, but if you’re ready for that, I can only recommend it. Some fake blood will stain your costume, so make sure to look for a brand that can be washed off or is safe for eating, if you get it near your mouth.
Sometimes certain ideas will require that you have an assistant on the shoot to help. Ask a friend to come along for the day and have them help you out with the story.
Photography by Rebecca /Alo.pus
Vex’ahlia is Myosotis Arvencis
Be a respectful fool
Lastly, I want to emphasize that you shouldn’t be afraid to look a little foolish. I share maybe a tenth of my photos, and whenever movement is incorporated, there’s maybe one or two photos where I don’t feel or look utterly ridiculous. Have fun with it. If you’re in a public location, remember to be foolish with respect for your surroundings. Be mindful that certain locations might not want cosplayers to return, if they don’t act properly. If I encounter curious folks, I smile and tell them it’s a type of performance art. If they laugh? Well, at least they have something interesting to gossip about with their friends.
I hope this post may serve as inspiration for your next photoshoot. Most importantly, remember to have fun and enjoy the process. Till next time!
