“Cosplay” is really a combination of the words ‘costume’ and ‘play’, a sort of performance in which players dress up like various characters. The characters could be fictional or real, from history, politics, television, as well as ads. If you’re able to picture it, you can produce a costume to represent it. In many cases it isn’t a literal interpretation – cosplayers often use a different style compared to source material, or even dress up like another person from the opposite gender.

Generally, but not always, cosplayers will be fans of the work they draw their characters from. This isn’t always the case, however; a designer might just get inspiration from something they have observed, or perhaps a production company might hire models to put on a costume to advertise their product. Even so, many cosplayers are amateurs who participate for the fun of it, instead of industry experts shelling out countless hours and 1000s of dollars on each costume.

By far the largest number of cosplayers are anime related. American cosplayers regularly congregate at events held all around the United States and Canada, mostly anime related, but often focused on sci-fi or comics too. Other convention participants are going to take their shots or ask to have pictures taken together. While at the convention, most will be a part of costume contests, arrange to have their pictures taken professionally, and participate in a general costume parade.

Cosplayers can build a sense of belonging and togetherness through the private and professional connections they are able to make. Many will find almost everything they are looking for.