Confessions of a Cosplay Girl

Adventures at the 2012 MegaCon show

2012-02-21T14:46:00.000-05:00

This year I attended my first MegaCon show held in Orlando, Florida on behalf of Three Muses Clothing. The event took place on February 17th-19th at the Orange County Convention Center. I was very excited about attending my first show. I have heard nothing but great things about this convention and once I told my friends I was attending, my schedule was quickly booked. I flew to Florida early Saturday morning and briefly relaxed at my hotel room before heading out for a Lois Lane/Superman photo shoot with Danny Kelley. After the shoot I walked the convention floor where I ran into friends and met many high profile cosplayers I admire and respect such as Jonathan Carroll and Margie Cox. I was also introduced to legendary comic book artist, George Perez. After touring the floor I had dinner with Candy and the girls then we got ready for the Arkham Nights party. The party was presented by Moshi-Moshi and held at Club Backstage. My girlfriends and I attended the party as Catwoman, Harley Quinn, Poison Ivy and Batgirl with a male friend joining us as an Arkham inmate.

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On Sunday I went to the show as Wonder Woman which was recently upgraded by Candy. A new gold layer was added to the corset and I literally squealed with delight when I saw what a difference it makes. I hung out at the Hero Initiative booth with a friend and posed for photos. I met several of my followers on Twitter and Facebook and one of them introduced me to his 5 year old son who was dressed as a Minion from the film "Despicable Me." I left to meet my friends and we made the rounds around the convention center where I spotted and chatted with friend and artist Eric Basaldua. Candy made quite a splash with her debut of her Dazzler cosplay! After the show we had dinner, I packed my things and made my way to the airport to return home. Duties as a preschool teacher were beckoning and I had mandatory training on Monday. To say I was exhausted is quite an understatement but I took Tuesday off to rest.

MegaCon was easily one of my favorite shows I've been to. I saw some of the best costumers in the country there and the attendees were very pleasant. The show was fun, entertaining and had a lot to offer without being too big or overcrowded. I've kind of had my fill of shows like the San Diego Comic Con and New York. They've become far too commercial and crowd control has become nonexistent. I've decided that I will not be attending either show this year because I need a break from the big crowds and chaos. I'd much rather attend shows where the focus is costuming and the love for the art of comics.

To view the full gallery of my pictures from Megacon, check out my Facebook Fanpage and my thanks to Three Muses Clothing.

Slave Leia Cosplay Tutorial

2012-01-21T18:46:00.004-05:00

Slave Leia is one of my most popular costumes and I have received numerous emails requesting that I provide a tutorial on how I transform into the enslaved Princess. Although Entertainment Weekly chronicled my transformation from preschool teacher to royalty, here I will provide detailed step by step instructions on how you can become Darth Vader's estranged daughter.

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Step 1: The Metal Bikini

I own an authentic metal bikini that was made by Leia's Metal Bikini and you can purchase the costume through the website. Three Muses Clothing also has a high quality Slave Leia costume listed here. I highly recommend doing business with either site.

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Step 2: Footwear

All too often, cosplay requires ridiculous heels or painful boots but not to worry! Princess Leia is sporting a comfy pair of Uggs! You can purchase grey ones for this cosplay. I've also put my own twist on this and have worn sandals but the boots are more accurate.

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Step 3: Makeup

I will begin with a list of the things you will need:

1. Foundation

2. Gold eye shadow

3. White eye shadow

4. Black liquid eyeliner

5. Dark brown liquid eyeliner

6. Eyelash curler

7. Mascara

8. Bronzer

9. Brown lipstick

10. Black eyeliner (pencil)

11. Concealer

*Important note* Although I referenced Carrie Fisher's makeup in 'Return of the Jedi', I have created a face that is best suited and compliments my skin tone. It may not be suited for all skin types.

Makeup part #1

Apply foundation all over face. I also use dark brown liquid eyeliner to fill in my brows.

Makeup part #2

Line the top of your lids with the black liquid eyeliner.

Makeup part #3

Put gold eye shadow on your lids and spread it up to your crease. Apply white eye shadow beneath the eyebrow. Curl eyelashes and apply mascara.

Makeup part #4

Apply concealer to those pesky shadows under your eyes.

Makeup part #5

With the black eye pencil, line the lower lids of your eyes.

Makeup part #6

Apply bronzer to the apples of your cheeks and cheek bones.

Makeup part #7

Put on the brown lipstick and viola! Your face is complete!

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Step #4: Hair

Unless you have superlong hair, you're probably going to need a hair extension. You can purchase one like this Sassy Synthetic Braid at places like Sally's Beauty Supply or a wig shop. Braid the two pony tails. Brush your natural hair into a pony tail then put it in a bun. Then tie the braid onto the bun.

Once the braid is tied onto your bun, you're going to swing one braid behind your head and the other in front of your head. Wrap the braid that is in front of you around the top of your head. Use bobby pins to keep it in place.

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Step #5: Metal Bikini

Now that you're hair and makeup are complete it's time to slip on that infamous metal bikini! Also be sure to wear a pair of gold hoop earrings. Congratulations! You are now the most famous princess in the galaxy! I hope you enjoyed this tutorial and that it helped you fulfill your dreams!

Cosplay Survey

2012-01-20T20:56:00.002-05:00

Recently a Cosplay Survey has been circling around on Facebook. The questions seemed interesting and rather than fill it out and tag people on my personal account, I decided to instead share it on my Blog.

1 . Your first cosplay?
Aerith Gainsborough from the video game Final Fantasy VII.

2. How many costumes have you done?
Thirteen.

3. Your most recent cosplay?
Japanese Vocaloid Hatsune Miku.

4. Your favorite cosplay?
It's always hard to choose just one but I would have to say Catwoman. I've loved her all my life and have been with her throughout her many incarnations. The costume is comfortable and sexy. My Catwoman cosplay is featured in a cosplay calendar with proceeds going to the American Red Cross: http://angryweb.net/2012/01/10/angry-girls-2012-calendar-now-on-sale/ I also love Selina's heated affair with The Batman and her dangerous lifestyle.

5. The character you have cosplayed that is most similar to you (if none that you have cosplayed, then one that you will cosplay)?
Oh geeze, I don't know! Obviously I'm not from Krypton and I'm not an enslaved princess on Tatooine! All of the characters I've cosplayed are strong characters and a little fun so I'd like to think I'm a little like all of them.

6. Your cosplay plans for the rest of the year (if you have no more for this year, then do next year!)
I'm doing something a bit different and am cosplaying non super powered characters such as Lois Lane and Pepper Potts. I'll be doing joint shoots with a Superman and Tony Stark cosplayer. I'll be debuting Monster High character Cleo. I would love to squeeze in Slave Princess Jasmine but we will see if I have the time.

7. The dream cosplay that might just happen?
Huntress!

8. The dream cosplay that will never happen?
Never say never! Anything is possible. I don't limit myself.

9. Something cosplay-related that you will never do (eg. crossplay, cosplay from a certain series).
I'm personally not into crossplay but am not against it. However you won't see me doing it.

10. Your cosplay idol?
"Idol" is a bit of an odd term. I can tell you who I love, respect and admire; Iggy Cosplay, Han Pan, Lucid Cosplay, Danny Kelley, Jonathan Carroll and Margie Cox.

11. Your cosplay specialty (ie. something that seems to apply to a large amount of your cosplays, it could be a specific series, or a common feature in their appearance, such as glasses).
DC Comics characters. It's pretty obvious I'm a big fan of the DCU.

12. Your cosplay-making habits (eg. singing while working on cosplay):
I need peace and quite when I'm working on something.

13. Your least favourite thing about cosplay?
The phonies who don't know anything about the character their dressed as and only do this for attention. Stalkers are annoying too.

14. Do you belong to any cosplay groups?
My girlfriends and I made a splash at the 2010 Philadelphia Comic Con aka Wizard World Philly as the Gotham City Sirens. I was also asked to be Catwoman for another Gotham City Sirens group for an upcoming show.

15. What events have you cosplayed to? Future event plans?
I've been to the San Diego Comic Con, New York Comic Con,
Wizard World Philly, Baltimore Comic Con, Zenkaikon and Monster Mania. As for future shows...wait and see!

16. What is your best cosplay memory?
Being offered a job as an official Slave Leia model.

17. What is your worst cosplay memory?
Some guy kept calling me "Supergirl" when I was dressed as Wonder Woman. I felt embarassed not for me, but for HIM and had to correct him! Also I had to tell a very rude individual off when he got angry I wouldn't grant his photo request (because I was on the phone).

18. Have you won any cosplay awards?
I've received titles. The Modern Tokyo Times and Axiom Magazine named me the "Queen of Cosplay".

19. Your best cosplay derp photo?
When I was Black Canary my choker fell off.

20. Have you worn cosplay in a regular situation?
I sometimes take certain items and wear them out like my Black Canary or Zatanna jacket. I've also worn my Wonder Woman and Belle wig out.

21. Your most expensive cosplay?
Slave Leia and Wonder Woman. Each costume is worth over $300!

22. Your most comfortable cosplay and most uncomfortable cosplay?
My most comfortable would be Catwoman. Most uncomfortable is Hatsume Miku. The wig and boots are heavy.

23. The cosplay you put the most effort into?
Hatsune Miku. Between the wig, makeup and costume it takes me over an hour to get everything on!

24. Any unfinished costumes? Will you ever finish them?
I currently have an Alice: Madness Returns cosplaying lying around. I really need to get the ball rolling and do a pro shoot with it!

25. How many wigs do you own? Which is your favorite?
Eight wigs and one ponytail extension.I love them all! I can change my hair color whenever I want!

26. Where do you work on your cosplays and where do you store them when they’re done?
I work on them in the bedroom. The wigs are all on mannequin heads. Costumes and accressories are in a giant bin in my closet. Footwear is with my normal shoes.

27. What is your favorite cosplay item?
My Wonder Woman bracelets.

28. Cosplay peeves/things you are particular about?
Half assed cosplays.

29. Something you want to improve on for future cosplays?
I would love to get over my fear of sewing machines and start making my own costumes!

30. Cosplay-related work you are most naturally talented at (ie: sewing, prop-making, wigstyling, etc)?
I'm good with getting the hairstyles right weither it be purchasing and styling a wig, using my natural hair or adding hair extensions. I've also become pretty good with makeup.

Cosplay should be encouraged not discouraged among peers

2012-01-10T19:59:00.001-05:00

I'm often asked why I decided to dive into the wonderful world of cosplay and my answer is always the same: "Because it looked like fun". And it is! The imaginative world of costuming allows us to literally become our favorite characters. It is a creative process, a form of self expression and we have the freedom to decide which character to choose, what variant and add in any personal touches. The more, the merrier right? So why are some people getting their spandex in a bunch? Apparently some individuals get offended when they see a fellow costumer dressed as the same character as they are. Their reasons are everything from admitting low self esteem to feeling that there should be only one character per convention or event. I was even told of an incident where someone asked a fellow cosplayer not to dress up as a certain character because it was something she wanted to do. Since when was it okay to behave like this among peers? Why are some people discouraging others instead of encouraging them? Unity has seemed to have gone out of the window and an attempt at dictatorship has taken it's place.

This isn't taking place everywhere in the world of cosplay but among a small circle. Among some of the best cosplayers in the United States (also known as "Elite Cosplayers"), it is encouraged to cosplay any character you choose and some of them even act as mentors for aspiring cosplayers. The Superman portrait (seen above) taken at the 2011 DragonCon is a perfect example of unity among cosplayers who share the love of the same character. Each respective cosplayer is portraying a different version of the Man of Steel and the result is nothing short of stunning. Recently I was at a charity event and was one of two Wonder Woman cosplayers in attendance. We were two different variants; I was the traditional version and the other was the New 52 pants version. I learned a few months later (indirectly) that this was apparently a problem although I was told I could wear whatever I wanted. Now if four grown men can cosplay Earth's Greatest Hero in glory, why can't the same be done between two grown women? I certainly didn't have a problem with it. I actually make it a point to approach a cosplayer who is dressed as the same character as I am because clearly we have something in common. I love taking pictures with these women and marveling at their version of the character, asking questions and telling them they did a great job. Some people however have become competitive about it. True, there are some cosplayers whom I feel are the best version of Supergirl or Wonder Woman that I have ever seen but I don't compare myself to them. I am satisfied with my version of those characters. I don't sit there thinking how can I "beat" someone like Margie Cox. It's not about beating someone, it's about being the best Wonder Woman I can be.

Friend and cosplayer Jonathan Carroll is one of the best in the country and acts as a mentor to people wanting to cosplay Superman, one of his signature characters. Says Jonathan:

"I think it's very important to encourage any cosplayer, whether or not they're portraying the same character. We can all learn something from one another. You go to a con, and see things on other costumes that you may not have thought about, like "oh! i like his boots, that guy's cape is great! or i really like the way his symbol looks", and from that you grow, change, and evolve. We're all there to represent our favorite character, in our own way, the best way we can. And it's up to the veteran costumers, who've been on the scene for a while, to help those that are just beginning. Be it in the actual costume, the work out and diet, or the product we use on our hair to give it the perfect quaff, I believe, we should help one another, so that this culture survives and grows into something even greater than it is today."

Jonathan's brother and fellow cosplayer Danny Kelley (who is also a good friend and is highly respected) concurs with Jonathan's views and digs deeper on why we cosplay in the first place and all the hard work that goes into practicing our craft.

"I am very honored that people come to me with questions about fitness and costumes. It makes me feel like I am doing justice to this craft that I love. I think everyone no matter what size or shape, color or origin should be able to for a few times in their life, become those characters that they love. Most grownups have forgotten what it was like to be a kid and dream. We in the cosplay world never have and never will."

Another good friend of mine, Iggy Cosplay (the Joker pictured on the left) is best known for his portrayal as the Clown Prince of Crime. I asked Iggy if he felt competitive towards other Joker cosplayers and he had this to say:

"I am far from competitive about it and I certainly encourage it. The only reason why I'm still doing this is because another Joker cosplayer encouraged me to keep going. I've become good friends with other Jokers through cons as well. You can't have one definitive version. It's fun to see where each cosplayer takes the character in their own imaginative way."

I often read articles and say to myself "Well, that was pointless!" I want to avoid that with this article and make my point clear. Cosplayers should be encouraging each other not discouraging one another. I am by no means saying that someone does not have the right to express their opinion if they are feeling hurt or insecure about their cosplay. However when you start making unrealistic demands and are becoming competitive amongst your friends, clearly you have crossed a line. You are not cosplaying for the right reasons. You are cosplaying for the wrong reasons. Cosplay is suppose to be fun. Personally I feel it boils down to a certain level of maturity and of course, insecurity. If you have issues with your image whither it be the quality of your costumes or your body, you need to address and take care of those issues but please don't rain on everyone elses parade. Learn to accept yourself, be proud of your accomplishments and count your blessings. There are times you will be the only Harley Quinn at an event, at others you may run into a dozen. There's nothing wrong with that. It's a positive thing. It's love. A dark attitude will leave you trapped in a hobby you no longer enjoy and the possibility of loosing your friends in the process.

Dark Knight Rises Prologue Review

2011-12-14T11:33:00.006-05:00

I love viral marketing. I especially love viral marketing when it's attached to a new Batman project. A good friend of mine was one of the first 100 people to beat the Arkham Asylum viral marketing campaign and won the collector's edition of the video game thanks to his online detective skills. Prior to the release of the 2008 film "The Dark Knight", I received campaign buttons, Gotham newspapers and a Gotham City voter registration card all in support of Harvey Dent. I attended a Harvey Dent political rally where I had the chance to meet up with fellow supporters and was given a "I support Harvey Dent" t-shirt along with campaign signs. I was even featured on the official website and was thrilled (and slightly disturbed) when The Joker hacked the system and scribbled the face of every photo of Dent supports making them resemble the Clown Prince of Crime. Viral Marketing gives us a personal connection to something we enjoy and makes us feel like we're actually a part of the magic.

Batman fans around the world are gearing up for the 2012 Summer release of the final film in Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy "The Dark Knight Rises". On December 13th select IMAX theatres around the United States were screening the first six minutes of the film and you were allowed access if you knew how to get tickets. There were two showings at the IMAX theater; one at 10pm and the other at 10:30pm. My guest and I were in the 10:30pm group. We observed the first group as they exited the theater and became concerned by the expression on their faces. People looked confused. No shouts of awesomeness or fanboy freak outs. I found out later they were confused for a variety of reasons. After handing over our tickets and my purse being inspected for recording devices, were we given promotional t-shirts that features a bizarre design and simply says "End". No one could figure out what the design is suppose to symbolize (one guess was Bane's mask) and there's no indication on the shirt that it's related to a Batman film.

The prologue lasted only six minutes and began with Commissioner Gordon speaking at Harvey Dent's memorial service. The rest of the prologue features some mercenaries being captured and boarded on a plane. The men who apprehended them are looking for Bane and it turns out one of the captives is in fact Bane himself. After his identity is revealed he breaks free. Bane's objective is to kidnap a doctor aboard the plane (who, thanks to viral marketing has been revealed to be Dr. Leonid Pavel) and take it down. A second plane filled with Bane's henchmen comes into play and in what was probably the most impressive stunt I've seen filmed in the air, Bane transfers the doctor's blood to a decoy before successfully taking down the airplane and making a getaway in his own. The last few seconds of the prologue are filled with never-before-scenes featuring a new Batman vehicle (or the Tumbler transforming, I couldn't really tell), a tortured looking Selina Kyle traveling in a car, Batman on the steps of a building during snowfall, a glimpse of Catwoman and finally Bane holding Batman's mask.

When the screening was over I came to the realization why the first crowd who viewed it were troubled. It was almost impossible to understand any of Bane's dialogue. His heavy accent is muffled behind a mask and I can honestly say that I barely understood a line that actor Tom Hardy delivered. Many of the movie goers in the theatre said the same thing. One said:

"I don't know what I just saw but it was awesome!"

While many others clearly stated they couldn't understand a word Bane said (myself included). One joked that between Christian Bale's gruff Batman voice and Bane, the next logical character to include in the film would be Beaker from The Muppets. There were numerous complaints regarding Christian Bale's performance in "The Dark Knight", so much so that it was corrected for the DVD release and the result was a smoother audio delivery. Numerous complaints regarding Bane's voice have all ready surfaced online and one hopes that this will be corrected in time for the film's worldwide release in 2012. If not, this could be as painful as Stallone and Schwarzenegger getting into a verbal argument.

The writing remains intelligent and though the airplane sequence was cleverly written and visually satisfying, Bane's problematic voice stole the show. Clearly that's not good news. I was more impressed by the images shown after the plane sequence. In all honesty Batman's hand to hand combat among the stairs with Bane during a snow storm would have made for a better sneak peak. I'm going to chalk the prologue to being entertaining but nothing spectacular.

Dear Mr. Trate

2011-11-02T22:12:00.003-04:00

Not surprisingly another Slave Leia bashing article has surfaced on the web. This one however is in a league of it's own. Not only did they specifically target the article Entertainment Weekly did on me preparing for this year's San Diego Comic Con (as Leia) but they also featured a photo they took of me at Comic Con and went on to admit that they have taken several other pictures of me at conventions as Catwoman and Zatanna. Funny enough after confessing they have several pictures of me in multiple costumes, they go on to state that they have no clue as to who I am (even though my name and information is listed in the Entertainment Weekly article he referenced). Furthermore the individual claims they were "surprised" to see me "three years" after cosplaying Zatanna in San Diego. The humorous thing about that statement is I first wore Zatanna to a con at the 2010 Wizard World Philly show aka the Philadelphia Comic Con and wore Slave Leia to California a month later. Where do you get a three year gap when those cosplays were in fact one month apart? When one of my friends defended me in this article, Mr. Trate instantly knew she was referring to me (even though she pointed out a photo featuring two Slave Leia's) without her mentioning my name. Upon registering on the site to leave my own personal response, I found that my email account had all ready been blocked. Curious.

The article isn't solely about me but uses me as an example on why "Slave Leia is Dead" and goes on to accuse Gentle Giant Studios using Leia for "marketing" (I guess he knows better than a multimillion dollar company with a contract with Lucasfilm and feels they should take his marketing advice) and accuses the models of not being real Star Wars fans. He accuses Olivia Munn and Adrianne Curry of being posers and that they only wore the metal bikini to promote themselves. Here's a prime example of educating yourself before you stick your foot in your mouth; Olivia Munn wore it as part of her job for G4 TV and anyone who knows Adrianne Curry is well aware that she is a proud geek and a major Star Wars fan.

Apparently Slave Leia was hot up until 2009 according to Mr. Trate. He admits he is a big fan of it. So what happened? No explanation is given. Perhaps he was snubbed or got turned down for a date by a Slave Leia model. His call on Slave Leia's to show their "creative side and do something different" leaves me asking:

"Who the hell are you?"

Almost all of the Slave Leia's have other cosplays. I myself have over ten costumes and was named the Queen of Cosplay by the Modern Tokyo Times and Axiom Magazine. You know nothing about them, Mr. Trate. You are judgemental and prejudice. At San Diego Comic Con we are HIRED TO DO A JOB and you even admitted to stopping by the Gentle Giant booth to take a photo of me (and at several other
cons).

Mr. Trate encourages Leia's to take creative liberties with the costume and praises others who have done so completely ignoring the fact that the models must mirror Carrie Fisher's look. He lists other characters women should cosplay as if we want or require his opinion. Finally, Mr. Trate attempted to reach out to me saying "his boss" had several "messages" for me stating the article was not meant to be personal. What made me howl with laughter is after getting into Lois Lane mode, I discovered that he was in fact the writer of the article and used unconvincing aliases that were easy to expose. Next time, don't pick something so obvious.

Now because I work in the real world and have a respectable full time job as a teacher, naturally I didn't discover this until after I got out of work. To find that someone once again is bashing my side job is unsurprising. How funny is it that someone on the outside is trying to tell professional models how to do their job. You're not our employer thus we are not required to listen to you particularly when some of us are veteran cosplayers. Save the requests for the Gentlemen's club and stop acting like you're an authority because you're not.

To quote one of my fans:

"Yawn to the haters." The Slave Leia bashing is the one that's tired. I'm doing what I love, am successful in multiple fields and do not plan to stop.

EDUCATE YOURSELF MR. TRATE: http://victoriacosplay.blogspot.com/2011/08/slave-revolt.html

Women of Wonder Day Charity event!

2011-10-24T18:58:00.000-04:00

This year's Women of Wonder Day (formerly known as Wonder Woman Day) will be held October 29th and 30th throughout locations across the country including Oregon, New Jersey and Texas. The event taking place in Flemington New Jersey will be held at the Comic Fusion store located on 42 Main Street from 11:00 am until 6:00pm. Comic Fusion will be auctioning various items including original artwork, collectibles, autographed items and the chance to be photographed with cosplayers. All proceeds will go towards the Safe in Hunterdon organization which helps victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. Check out their website for more information . For a complete list of the events taking place in all the three states, check of the official Women of Wonder Day website. Comic Fusions art gallery auction can be found here with email bidding rules here.

I will be attending the event in New Jersey on Sunday, October 30th. If you're in the area whether it be in Oregon, New Jersey or Texas be sure to stop by for a great time and to help support a worthy cause.

New York Comic Con 2011 Wrap up

2011-10-17T13:43:00.002-04:00

This year was my first time attending the New York Comic Con Convention which took place October 13th thru the 16th at the Javits Center. I attended the show Saturday and Sunday and was eager to compare it to the crowds, chaos and excitement of the San Diego Comic Con. After arriving in the Big Apple in the early afternoon with my event photographer Brian, we met up with our mutual friend Alisha, checked into our hotel and I changed into Slave Leia before heading out to the biggest comic show on the East Coast. Upon arrival I immediately noticed that some of the same displays at the San Diego show were also at the New York show (the up side down Spider-Man display, a life size Revenge of the Jedi action figure package, a life size model of Optimus Prime just to name a few). Of course there was plenty that was not at the San Diego show such as a Jem and the Holograms display at the Hasbro booth, Young Justice action figures featuring a completed Hall of Justice and the new 52 DC action figures featuring my personal favorites, Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman.

Cosplaying is obviously one of my passions and I find that when I wear the metal bikini to events, people get out of hand. Something about the image of Slave Leia puts comic geeks into overdrive and majority of them don't know how to ask for a photo so they grab you. I literally lost count with how many times someone grabbed me by the shoulder or arm. It happened within a few minutes after arriving on the convention floor. I turned around and said to many individuals "Don't touch me." It's not a pleasant feeling walking around and a hand suddenly reaching out and pulling you back. I can't stress this enough: KEEP YOUR HANDS TO YOURSELF AND USE YOUR WORDS. As usual the same problems arised; people asking for a photo while I'm talking to a friend, trying to text or make a call or while I'm attempting to take photos for my Blog. Even when I put my hoodie on (a clear sign saying I've had enough of taking photos) people still stopped me. I began to shoot down the requests. And to top it off a "wrestling team" with a camera stopped me for a video interview and began asking me the most inappropriate questions ("Admit that Jabba turns you on", "Does Han pull on this chain in bed?", "Do you have a vibrator?") and when they weren't getting the answers they wanted they claimed they "refused to believe I was a good girl". Assholes. I vowed not to cosplay Sunday. On a positive note, I did get many compliments. One woman thanked me for dressing up as Leia and many said I looked better and was prettier than the original princess (which is always odd to hear). Speaking of Cosplay, my friend Hannah arrived in her trademark flawless Harley Quinn and Alisha debuted her fabulous new Supergirl cosplay. Andrea, a beautiful woman I was introduced to by Alisha arrived as She Hulk and was a real crowd pleaser! Boothes had their mascots and representatives such as a lego BumbleBee.

Now let's talk shopping and art! For years I have always wanted a Moogle stuffed animal (from the Final Fantasy games) but they aren't available in America. I finally had the opportunity to get one at the Square Enix booth. That seriously made me happy beyond words. I always enjoy going to the Artist Alley to talk to the talented artists and buy prints. This year I discover Ant Lucia (check out his site HERE), who had a beautiful Princess Leia print at his table but what really caught my eye was a stunningly beautiful piece of Superman and Lois Lane. It was love at first sight for me and I immediately said "I'll take it!" I also caught up with artist Vinnie Tartamella whom I have spoken to online for the past three years but never met in person (he also did a Mermaid commission for me a couple of years ago). I got three beautiful prints from him; two of his version of Alice and Wonder Woman. We also stopped by to see friend and Living Corpse creator Ken Haser. On Sunday I had a shoot for the Filipino edition of FHM magazine (the theme was black lingerie in a nightclub) then headed back to the show to meet up with friends and take one last tour of the convention. I caught up with artist and friend Billy Tucci and Eric Basaldua (eBas) who requested that I lay on his table for some fun shots.

My opinion on the New York Comic Con was that it was a fun show with a lot to offer. It's better organized than the San Diego Comic Con (which in all honestly has too many attendees and not enough security and employees). I'm not saying that the crowds are better in New York; there's a massive amount of people and at times getting from point A to point B is close to impossible. The crowd is overwhelming. The Artist Alley was my favorite area but the best part of this show (and any show I attend) is catching up with friends. I truly feel that the greatest thing about these events is that they bring people together. It's always great to spend a little time with the people you care about weither it's gawking at geek stuff, sharing dinner or watching cartoons at your hotel (Daffy Duck is an asshole by the way). I want to thank everyone involved at the New York Comic Con for this year's show.

Cosplay Spotlight: Tony

2011-10-08T21:00:00.000-04:00

At the 2011 Philadelphia Comic Con (also known as the Wizard World Philly show) I had the pleasure of meeting Tony, who immediately caught my attention in his Static Shock cosplay. Tony is an avid cosplayer who has been enjoying the art of costuming since 2006. He is a fan of everything from Thundercats to the Power Rangers and uses his talents to bring these characters to life.

Regular readers may be noticing a trend on the Confessions of a Cosplay Girl Blog; cosplay spotlights featuring talented and hot male cosplayers. Cute cosplay girls and booth babes are a dime a dozen. As a geek girl myself I appreciate attractive male cosplayers and feel that they do not receive as much media attention or are given as much credit as females in the comic world. I plan to change that and do my part by featuring them on my Blog. It is my pleasure to showcase Tony in this current edition of the Cosplay Spotlight. Read on to learn more about him, his encounter with Geoff Johns and what comic book he would like to see turned into the next Hollywood Blockbuster.

Victoria: How long have you been cosplaying and what made you decide to dive into the world of costuming?

Tony: I have been cosplaying since 2006. I guess my first convention Big Apple Comic Con was the deciding moment and I wore a Green Lantern suit and was totally hooked after that.

Victoria: Do you make your own costumes or do you hire commissioners?

Tony: Its a mix of both I'd say 1/3 of all my costumes are commissioned and the other are done by me.

Victoria: What costumes do you have planned for the future?

Tony: I plan on another Power Ranger, Conner Kent (cause I can. lol), an updated version of Elijah Bradley (Patriot), Tigra from Thundercats, Cyrax & Eddy Gordo, just to name a few.

Victoria: Static Shock is one of my favorite characters and you are hands down the best Static cosplayer I've seen! Tell me about the costume and why you decided to cosplay him.

Tony: I love Static & since there weren't many young Black Heroes that had locks and since I had them, I was like why the hell not. It was probably my most difficult costume to make (I never made a jacket before and was like I'm always up for a challenge). I also had to learn to screen print to make the shirt.

Victoria: Are you as frustrated as I am that his animated series hasn't been released on DVD?

Tony: Frustrated, no.... Pissed off YES!!!

Victoria: I see you're a big fan of the Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers! Which Ranger do you cosplay?

Tony: I Cosplay the Green Ranger (Tommy Oliver) & SPD Red Ranger both B-Squad Cadet and Morphed versions.

Victoria: As a minority myself I have personally dealt with people making racist comments regarding my cosplay (online). Have you ever endured similar experiences and if so, how do you cope?

Tony: I have always cosplayed minority characters until I dawned my Green Ranger and I was lucky enough that it was so epic that everyone loved it. It actually cause of you and some other friends of mine that I'm ready to tackle any hero or villain I choose.

Victoria: What has been your best and most memorable convention experience?

Tony: Meeting Geoff Johns last year at NYCC dressed as Aqualad from Brightest Day. I walked to the DC booth and the line was cut off for the signing he was like "WOAH" and he autographed my book and I got a picture with him. I won't say it was the best but it's definitely tied for the top spot with 2 other experiences I had at cons. lol.

Victoria: What comic book would you like to see turned into a film adaptation?

Tony: Static Shock but the storyline from Milestone Forever (this way I can play Virgil. lol).

Victoria: Marvel or DC?

Tony: DC till the day I die! However Marvel does hold a little spot in my heart.

Ask Victoria: Part 5

2011-09-04T21:09:00.001-04:00

So for the fifth round of "Ask Victoria" I had my fans ask whatever they wanted on my Facebook fan page (www.facebook.com/VictoriaCosplay). The original plan was whoever asked the best question would get to interview me for my Blog but there was such a huge response and so many great questions, I decided to pick the ten best for this article. My apologies that I could not get everyone's questions in. There were far too many and some of them were questions I have all ready answered in other interviews across the web. Thanks again to my fans. Read on and enjoy!

Emily Ruth asks: What has the process been like going from a low-key cosplayer to the Queen of Cosplay? Your great greatest challenge and hardships that you had to overcome as each new con approached? How as those challenges shaped you as a person and where can you see yourself growing from there?

Victoria: I never thought I would receive any kind of title in the cosplay world especially being named the Queen of Cosplay. It's a bit mind boggling. I was just a shy little nerd girl who wanted to give cosplay a try and really enjoyed it so I continued with no specific goal in mind other than to have fun and pay tribute to my favorite characters. In the beginning I actually dealt with a lot of racism with my first cosplay (Aerith from Final Fantasy VII) and I would consider that the biggest hardship. I also have individuals whom I refer to as my "sheep" who literally would shop at the same local stores I would or apply to the same shows or websites, contact people I have worked with, imitate my modeling photos, even cosplay the same characters that I do. Sometimes they are former friends, sometimes they are plain ole' stalkers. But these women aren't considered hardships in the least, they are just people I laugh at when our paths cross. I think any obstacle in life helps you become who you are and I have faced everything from being in a wheel chair, to murder in my family, divorce, abusive relationships and even alcoholism. I always found the light however thanks to my family, friends and God. I do not exaggerate when I say I have very thick skin. I have even taken up the practice of meditation and feel I am constantly evolving.

Russell asks: How has cosplaying changed your life? Pros and Cons of cosplaying for you?

Victoria: Gosh, it's changed in so many ways. First and foremost, it's crazy that I don't have to worry about a ticket anymore. I'm getting invited to these shows or am granted access because of my work and the name I've made for myself and that's incredible. My first trip to the San Diego Comic Con was in 2010 and I had people come up to me who knew who I was. It wasn't just fans either; I met a Fox San Diego camera man and he said he followed my work online. I couldn't believe I was all the way across the country and people knew who I was and it really showed that all my networking has really paid off. I would say the annoying thing about being an internet celebrity is the idioticy I have to deal with; people who just act stupid. But that's easily taken care of with the click of the "block" button. Sometimes I will spit their stupidity right back at them, other times I don't bother and just block them.

David asks: What is your opinion of the latest Superman costume from Superman: The Man of Steel?

Victoria: I actually really like it! It's different from any Superman costume we've seen onscreen. I think it was time to step away from the traditional outfit (just a bit) and give us something new. It's not too different though so it's still safe. I also think it's sexy. I've been in love with Superman since I was a little girl and am very much looking forward to this film.

WeAre NerdCaliber asks: What was the last thing you read that made a huge impact in your life or thinking? Why?

Victoria: I don't know if this counts but I have a Dream Interpretation book that I use to decipher dreams and visions I have while I meditate. I record everything down in a journal and it's amazing once you decode the hidden meanings behind dreams and visions.

Brian asks: I sort of know the answers to any question that could be asked but I feel like one question in particular would have an interesting answer and I wonder if it's changed over time: How do you go about "retiring" a cosplay? I know you've had quite a few that have been shelved for good (Aerith for example), but I would like to hear in your own words what goes through your head when you decided that a cosplay has run it's course ...

Victoria: If I feel like I have done all I can creatively for a character whether it be costume upgrades or photography wise, I will retire it. With Aerith I was very satisfied with the pictures that were taken (http://cosplaygirl.webs.com/aerithfinalfantasyvii.htm) and had no desire to cosplay her variant dresses. I also don't attend many video game shows so I had no where to really wear the outfit to.

Dave asks: Do you regret cutting your hair?

Victoria: Not at all! It has to be cut after I put my hair through hell one week. I went from dark to highlights to back to dark. It got fried so I cut only two inches off. As you can see in the Alice picture above, it's not too short. It looks shorter though when I wear it curly.

Humphrey asks: With all the hype of the new 52 how do you feel about the new costume designs. Do you see yourself cosplaying any of them in the near future. If so which would be the first. Ohh yeah will you marry me.

Victoria: I'm digging the designs so far although I am still getting use to Superman's collar. I may try Wonder Woman's new outfit but I have no love for Supergirl's new uniform. I think it's horrendous. As for marrying you, if I'm still single in five years let's do it!

Michael asks: You have been featured lately on several big cosplay websites, and even most recently on EW.com. Do you hope to become a model outside of the cosplay world, and if so, what would you model?

Victoria: I've been doing three things like a mad woman; teaching, cosplaying and modeling. I feel I am ready to be more active in the modeling world so cosplay may be pushed to the side for a little bit now that I am in negotiations with a modeling agency. I've actually held off on signing with an agency because teaching and cosplaying came first but even with doing that, I've proved I can make it into national publications. As for what would I model, that would depend on what assignments I would get but I am open for pretty much anything.

Mind Trickdmedia asks: Best Pick up line when you're dressed as Slave Leia?

Victoria: I love it when females ask me to marry them at conventions or when they say "I love you Princess Leia!". Conventions are suppose to be fun and with all the online Slave Leia bashing going on, it's always nice to meet a confident, strong, female fan who appreciates Leia.

Phil asks: Thoughts on being the subject of so much fan art? I could probably have an entire art related conversation.

Victoria: It's awesome! I appreciate everyone's efforts and for incorporating me into their art! I've seen some incredible work and try to post as much as I can on my website: http://cosplaygirl.webs.com/fanart.htm

Slave Hello Kitty promotes slavery of cats across the galaxy!

2011-09-03T22:10:00.000-04:00

The Slave Leia cosplay controversy continues! At this year's 2011 San Diego Comic Con, Hello Kitty arrived donning the infamous metal bikini causing shock waves throughout the cat community. Is Hello Kitty, the world's most beloved cat, promoting slavery of felines? Has she in fact been abducted by the gangster known as Jabba the Hut? Is she sending the message that cats are objectified as sex objects? Did she get a bikini wax? For answers to these hard hitting questions, the experts were called in. Slave Leia models Rebecca and Geneva share their thoughts on these shocking turn of events.

Rebecca: I'm offended cause I am a dog person! BAD KITTY!

Geneva: That cat is supporting slavery while being dressed in a skimpy outfit! It should be ashamed!!

Rebecca: Really! How often do you see cat's wearing leashes? Dogs do it purely by choice!

Geneva: It's ok for dogs to support slavery but cats are a whole other story how

dare they!

Rebecca: Geneva- I'm calling ASPCA right now! Or North Shore Animal League for cruelties to this cat!

Geneva: You should report that cat to the Victims of Jabba Support Group! This is appalling! Cats across the world are suffering from enslavement by giant slugs!

Rebecca: Public controversy opinion- Cats are whores!

*Note* This article is meant as a joke and not meant to offend the Hello Kitty cosplayer. This is a continuation of the "Slave Revolt" article seen HERE.

Cosplay Spotlight: Danny Kelley

2011-08-31T19:42:00.000-04:00

For those within the cosplay community, the name Danny Kelley is a familiar one. Known as the ultimate Superman cosplayer, Danny's portrayal of The Man of Steel has not only impressed fans and cosplayers alike but the folks over at DC Comics. With a physique worthy of Earth Greatest Hero, a personal Superman collection featuring 3,000 items and appearances in everything from fan films to local parades, it's clear to see why Danny is an inspiration to others and regarded as the best of the best. Danny took time out for an interview for the Confessions of a Cosplay Girl Blog to chat about his body building days, cosplay and his reasons for dressing up as the Daily Planet reporter.

Victoria: You're known as THE Superman cosplayer. How long have you been portraying the Man of Steel and what made you decide to cosplay him?

Danny: I have been a Superman fan for as long as I can remember. Growing up I read the comics and loved the way Superman looked strong and big. So once I got to the age to workout I did. I wanted to look like that. What got me into putting on the suit was one Halloween I thought it would be cool to make a Superman costume so I found a site online that told you how to do it. So I made my first suit. Then I read about a real place called Metropolis in Illinois. I just had to go there. They had a 3 day celebration for the Man of Steel. So that's the first time I wore the suit at a convention and I haven't looked back since.

Victoria: You have many different variants of Superman. Which version is your personal favorite?

Danny: I have 14 different Superman costumes. Every one he has worn I have tried to get. My favorite is a cross between Chris Reeves and Dean Cains suit. I kinda mixed them up some to give it my on flare.

Victoria: What other characters have you brought to life through cosplay?

Danny: I have done only a couple other costumes besides Superman. One was Atom Smasher and the other Wonder Man.

Victoria: You have starred in a few Avengers Fan Films as Wonder Man. Do you enjoy being an actor and being in front of the camera?

Danny: I love acting. I was a little nervous at first but am getting better at it and feeling more comfortable.

Victoria: You've caught the attention of DC Comics and have visited the DC Headquarters on numerous occasions. What's it like having a personal relationship with the company?

Danny: I have met so many great people in the DC Comics world from artist to some of the head people at DC. They are all great and think what I do is wonderful.

Victoria: What are your thoughts about the DC reboot and Superman's new costume?

Danny: You know when Superman Returns came out I didn't think I would like that costume but it grew on me. This one will also I believe. Things change, sometimes it good sometimes its bad, but most the time it's a little of both.

Victoria: A picture was recently released of Henry Cavill in the upcoming Zack Snyder Superman film. What do you think of the new movie costume and would you consider cosplaying it?

Danny: Defiantly. I have to have that costume also. I am already looking into having it made. I love it.

Victoria: How do you feel about Zack Snyder taking over the Superman franchise?

Danny: I think he will do great. This one will have alot more of what we want from Superman; more action!!

Victoria: You were a professional body builder and was crowned Mr. Georgia not once but twice. Based on your physique, you look as though you should be residing on Mt. Olympus. How do you stay in such incredible shape?

Danny: I was a competitive Body Builder for 9 years. Now I do the same workouts and diet year round to give the fans the very best I can give them as Superman and try and bring him to life for them. I workout everyday and stay on a very clean diet.

Victoria: I can tell you right now, you would be an enormous hit at the San Diego Comic Con. Any plans on ever attending that show?

Danny: Yes, I hope to get there one year. I have so many other conventions I do that it's hard to find the time. But I will make it out there.

Victoria: Who is your favorite actor to protray the Last Son of Krypton?

Danny: That would be Chris Reeve. He was and always will be Superman for me.

Victoria: Do you eat?

Danny: Why yes Ms. Lane, when I'm hungry

Victoria: Couldn't resist a reference to the first Superman film!

Slave Revolt

2011-08-26T20:05:00.005-04:00

What started out as a joke with the Slave Leia Public Service Announcement (starring Kaley Cuoco) has turned into a massive online bashing targeting Slave Leia cosplayers everywhere.

For those of you visiting my Blog for the first time, my name is Victoria Centeno. I work as a full time preschool teacher and part time model. I have been cosplaying for five years and am known as the "Cosplay Girl". My website (Cosplay Girl http://www.victoriacosplay.com/) has received over one million hits. I was recently named "The Queen of Cosplay" by Axiom Magazine ( http://www.axiommagazine.jp/2011/08/15/the-queen-of-cosplay-victoria/) and was the subject of the Entertainment Weekly story "Slave Leia: Some Assembly Required" ( http://www.ew.com/ew/gallery/0,,20399642_20511850_20991188,00.html ). I have also been featured in Latina Magazine, The Hollywood Reporter and Rolling Stone just to name a few. I've been reading comics since I was 9 years old and am partial to DC Comics.

I first tried on the metal bikini (actually it was the rubber version made by Rubies) in 2009 at the request of a local radio station I was doing camera work for. While I had the costume on loan I took advantage of the opportunity and took some photos and posted them online. My pictures caught the attention of the right people and I was offered a job as an official Slave Leia model for the 2010 San Diego Comic Con and Star Wars Celebration (which sadly, I had to decline). Return of the Jedi was the only Star Wars film my family owned growing up and my siblings and I watched the VHS on a daily basis. I never thought I would grow up and literally be Princess Leia. I was more than thrilled to become an official model for Gentle Giant Studios.

Since the Slave Leia PSA there has been a number of articles and Blogs (written mostly by women) crucifying anyone who has worn the metal bikini, labeling it a "problem" and "concern" at conventions. True there are times where there appears to be crowds of Slave Leia's but it's simply because those women were hired to be there. Things like the Slave Gathering, which takes place every year at the San Diego Comic Con (and have become legendary in addition to being a crowd pleasing event) have lured such celebrities as Olivia Munn and Adrianne Curry. It also receives massive press. One might complain that the metal bikini is too revealing when in fact, it shows as much as a two piece swimsuit at the beach. I've seen women wear far less in cosplay even going as far as applying nothing but pasties over their bare breasts. Where's the public outcry to ban those particular costumes at shows? Some may argue that we're actually promoting slavery or sex slavery and that Leia was a victim who was sexually abused by Jabba the Hut. Unless there's a version of Return of the Jedi with a deleted rape scene that I missed, those theories and assumptions are best described as laughable. Stick with the facts; yes Leia was a prisoner and forced to wear that outfit as she watched her friends and allies suffer but did she sit there and play victim? No.

This princess waited until the time was right and turned the tables on her captor, killed him and won her freedom. It's convenient that critics fail to recognize Leia's accomplishment and bravery because of what she's wearing. It's no different than one women judging another because of the clothes she has on. I'm often told by associates that they are surprised at how "nice" or "intelligent" I am for a model. Once again this is an example of stereotyping. People are accusing Leia cosplayers of not being "real" geeks without knowing that woman's story or reason for putting the metal bikini on. Fingers are being pointed with accusations of us demeaning ourselves when in fact, we chose to wear it. No one forced us. Here's a life lesson for those who say we're offensive; just don't look. To those who say the naysayers deserve to be heard, my response is that I don't deserve to be attacked and judged for the costume I choose to wear. It's just as easy for me to accuse someone of being jealous as it is for someone to accuse me of being an attention whore. We can play the blame game all night people.

How is it that a princess who fought for her friends, beliefs and freedom offends the eye but not the dozens of cosplayers walking around dressed as murderers, thieves and rapists? Are you enraged at the sight of the Green Goblin because he murdered a helpless blonde atop a bridge? Do Joker cosplayers upset you because he's murdered children and paralyzed others? And what about Dr. Light? He raped Enlongated Man's wife on the Watch Tower. With incidents occurring at conventions such as raised ticket prices, the stealing of badges and assaults (such as last year's pen stabbing incident at the San Diego Comic Con), you're biggest concern is a woman dressed as Slave Leia? It's time to get your priorities straight, let go of the hate and work on your self esteem.

Featured in Latina Magazine! Win an autographed copy!

2011-08-22T19:43:00.001-04:00

Back in May I traveled to the Big Apple to shoot the "Real Women" feature for Latina magazine's September 2011 issue. The issue was recently released and I can be seen on page 66, modeling a skirt appropriate for a petite frame. I am beyond thrilled; this is my first feature in a national fashion magazine and a big step in my modeling career! What's even better is how proud my family is for appearing in a magazine dedicated to our culture. The best response was from my two niece's; they squealed when we picked up the issues and asked me to autograph their copies! That made my heart soar seeing their excitement and knowing that they are proud of their Aunt Vicki.

I love how things in life seem to work out. The universe works in mysterious ways. I was offered to appear in a magazine earlier in the year but you had to PAY for your "space" in the issue and I would have to pay additional prices to take photos for the theme they wanted. I would literally be spending hundreds of dollars to be in a magazine I never heard of. Where's the accomplishment in that (paying your way into a publication)? I'd be embarassed to tell people I had to buy my way in. I passed and instead worked hard to earn an even better opprotunity. Looks like I made the right descion.

So to celebrate, I'm holding a contest where the winner will receive an autographed copy of the September issue of Latina (with the stunning Zoe Saldana on the cover). All you have to do is show your fan appreciation for the cosplay girl; whether you submit artwork, create a You Tube video slide show, make a cosplay girl Barbie or action figure, create a t-shirt, comic strip, whatever you want! Just keep it clean and be creative! LOL Contest begins Tuesday, August 23rd and ends Friday September 23rd. You can email submissions to: cosplay.girl@yahoo.com

This is my fun way of saying thank you for your love and support throughout the years. Good luck!

Cosplay Spotlight: Jonathan Carroll

2011-08-19T19:13:00.002-04:00

Cosplay is an art form that I greatly respect and truly enjoy. Although I am a cosplayer myself, I get just as excited as every other fan girl when my eyes rests upon a cosplayer who literally look as if they stepped out of the pages of a comic book. One of my personal favorite cosplayers is Jonathan Carroll. Not only does he cosplay two of my favorite characters (Batman and Superman) with striking detail and stunning accuracy but he's also one of the nicest people I've had the pleasure of conversing with online. Jonathan proved to be every bit the southern gentlemen and granted me an interview. Many thanks to him for taking the time to give my readers and I an insight of his craft, his thoughts on the new Superman Suit for the upcoming Zack Synder film, psychical fitness and his bride-to-be (sorry ladies). Also be sure to check out his fan page: http://www.facebook.com/MonkeyOfSteelFanPage

Victoria: I have to say you were a pleasant discovery online! Your cosplay is most impressive and you're easily one of the best cosplayers I've ever seen. How long have you been cosplaying?

Jonathan: Oh gosh! You’re gonna make me blush! Haha! I’ve been cosplaying/costuming for 11 years now… uh-oh… I just started feeling REALLY old!

Victoria: Haha! What other costumes do you own and what can we look forward to in the future?

Jonathan: I’m working on a few right now, but really, just perfecting a few of the ones I have. I want to do the new Superman costume, a set of the COG armor from Gears of War, and I’m trying to think of a few new heroes to throw into my line up for my work with Heroes Alliance.

Victoria: Tell me about your Facebook page "Building a Superhero".

Jonathan: HOORAY! A shameless plug appears! My brother and I were getting so many request from people to get workout advice as well as dietary, and one day, I just realized, it’s easier for people to have a place to turn to, so they don’t have to search. The page is mainly geared towards cosplayers and costumers, but has attracted the attention of a lot of those outside that realm. The entire project has become an ever changing, ever evolving thing, but in the end, we’re just happy we can help people improve their health.

http://www.facebook.com/BuildingASuperhero

Victoria: What do you do personally to stay in such great shape?

Jonathan: I typically train twice a day, 6 times a week, resulting in about 4 hours a day. The split is between weight training and light cardio, as well as abdominal work. My diet is a huge part too. Typically I consume between 5,000 and 10,000 calories a day when I’m not on a lean cycle. This is just to gain more muscle mass, so when I start to cut back, I don’t become too small.

Victoria: You look nearly identical to Mike Turner's Superman. Not just the costume but your face. Do people tell you that often?

Jonathan: HAHA! I hear it every now and then, but I love it every time I do. Michael Turner had a brilliant art style. One that I’ve tried with my own art to duplicate several times, though VERY unsuccessfully. His Superman style is my ideal goal in physique, so when I hear that compliment, it’s a huge compliment to me.

Victoria: You also run a company "Supernova Costuming and Design" with your fiancée. Can you give me the details on what that's all about?

Jonathan: SuperNova Costuming and Design comes from a collaboration of both my fiancée and myself, in a joint effort to produce quality costumes for people. She handles a lot of the sewing, I handle a lot of the props (though for some things, we outsource to Wild Wood Studios), and we both do research until we feel like we know the costume backwards and forwards before we begin construction. http://www.facebook.com/supernovago

Victoria: What's it like having someone (your future wife) to cosplay with?

Jonathan: Oh, it’s amazing. She’s so much fun. We laugh because a lot of times, some people will drag their significant other into costuming with them, but instead, that’s how we met. She was the best darn Harley Quinn I’d ever seen. In addition to being the greatest costume accessory, she’s also my best friend. And there’s nothing like having a great hobby with your best friend.

Victoria: Your Batman Arkham Asylum cosplay is best described as perfection. How long did it take to put that costume together?

Jonathan: Well, the first run of the suit, proved a bit… problematic. I only kept it on for a few hours during it’s first tour at Dragon Con. By Mega Con it was ready to make it’s reappearance. It took a bit over a year to get everything just right on it, but it’s still being perfected. I’m currently working on a new belt to replace the urethane one, and my Props master, Steven Spellman of Wild Wood Studios, and I are collaborating on building a stronger set of armor for it with high impact plastic and Kevlar… ya know… just in case. But the crown of the costume has to be the cowl from Shawn Reeves of Reevz666.com fame. The cowl is just… gorgeous.

Victoria: What is your most memorable experience at a convention/show?

Jonathan: Oh gosh, that’s easy. It was my proposal to Jessica Enright in the Hyatt at Dragon Con while all of our friends stood around, watching. I’ll never forget it.

Victoria: That's so beautiful! What do you think of Superman's new costume in the comics and the upcoming Zack Snyder film?

Jonathan: I’m not crazy about the actor, but I’m ready to see what he can do. The suit is really nice, though I have NO idea why they used the earth 2 Superman symbol. I’m looking forward to yelling horrible things while I attempt to make it.

Victoria: That sounds like it would be an entertaining You Tube video. Haha. What conventions do you normally attend?

Jonathan: Typically, Mega Con, and Dragon Con. But in 2012, I want to make a huge circuit of cons including San Diego, Chicago, New York and yes… Metropolis.

Victoria: Any final thoughts or anything you would like to add?

Jonathan: Check out my page at http://www.facebook.com/buildingasuperhero
And remember, if you can dream it, you can be it. That’s the great thing about costuming and that’s the great thing about life.

Sponsor needed for American McGee's Alice cosplay

2011-08-16T21:45:00.000-04:00

I've been a fan of American McGee's Alice since it was released on PC back in October 2000. The game gave us what many people craved for; a dark and gory version of the twisted dimension called Wonderland. I fell in love with the game, fascinated with Alice's decent into madness (and tickled pink she was a brunette like the real life Alice which the character was based on) and read the journal that accompanied it numerous times. By the end of the game I wasn't satisfied; I wanted more. No one had ever delivered a nightmare-ish Wonderland like this game did. I like many, didn't think we would ever see a sequel due to the constant sets backs and cancellations. Alas 11 years later we finally received the next chapter and I find myself once again submerged in American McGee's telling of the classic tale. I have become obsessed with the idea of cosplaying Alice and am currently seeking sponsors for the character I want to bring to life.

Leg Avenue has licensed an official Alice costume that comes complete with the Omega necklace. The outfit is currently available on ebay for $45.99 and free shipping. http://cgi.ebay.com/American-McGees-Mad-Alice-Halloween-Costume-S-M-L-/170681497209?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&var=&hash=item6d705bbcbe

The boots are also currently available on ebay for $24.99 with free shipping as well:

http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-BLACK-KNEE-HIGH-DOUBLE-BELT-WOMENS-BOOTS-SIZE-6-5-/200641869905?pt=US_Women_s_Shoes&hash=item2eb72ff851 which brings the total to $70.98. Whoever would like to donate the total amount will recieve a Cosplay Girl mug with a picture of their choice as well as a signed 4x8 photo. If you would like to sponsor only one item, you may do that as well. Whomever sponsors the dress ($45.99) will receive a mug and if you would like to sponsor the boots ($24.99) you will receive two autographed 4x8 pictures.

You may contact me via email at: cosplay.girl@yahoo.com Thank you all very much for taking the time to read this and here's hoping someone will be helping me travel through the looking glass and into the realm of madness.

San Diego Comic Con 2011

2011-08-05T20:40:00.000-04:00

*Sigh* Teaching, modeling, family life & life in general is really taking it's toll on me. I am completely and utterly exhausted. Not to mention a tangled love life and my train hit and killed a man on my way to work last week. I really and truly need a vacation and have to get away from it all. I think I'm under the delusion that I am really a Wonder Woman and have to do it all. I'm going to end up in the hospital if I don't slow down, which is something my doctor yelled at me about last year.

This year's Comic Con was a whirlwind. Traveling from the east coast to the west cost is very exhausting. Lucky enough, my gal pal Haydn Porter (the super gorgeous playboy model) and I were on the same connecting flight to Cali so we got off the plane together and shared a cab to our hotel, went shopping and had lunch on the town with a new fellow Slave Leia named Rebecca while we waited for our manager to arrive. Entertainment Weekly stopped by my room shortly after to photograph me for their feature "Slave Leia: Some Assembly Required" (which can I say, how stoked I was to be the subject of an article by this famed magazine! AWESOME!). I asked Haydn to be in on it to; they photographed my progress on becoming Slave Leia and even followed me to the convention where Haydn and I were working that night (preview night). Because of the press I get and my online following, Rebecca has nicknamed me "Celebrity Leia". LOL Check out the article here: http://www.ew.com/ew/gallery/0,,20399642_20511850,00.html

On Preview Night I met the creator of the Monster High dolls, which I collect and am a massive fan of. I got to talk to him for a while and he was very nice and even took a pic of us together with his phone. The rest of the show is such a whirl wind; I posed for so many pics, attended the Slave Gathering, did interviews, met fans from Twitter and Facebook, met up with friends like artist Billy Tucci, attended a private Lucasfilm party, went to South Park Land, hung with friends and ended the trip with seeing Captain America. I wore my Catwoman costume, Belle and Lara Croft. Sadly there was no time for Wonder Woman and Supergirl although I packed them. Did lots of shopping for myself and loved ones and met super amazing cosplayer Joanie (who also made my Supergirl outfit) and Emily Ruth (we were Disney Princesses together). I also worked at the Terminal Alice booth dressed as their character Cara with my girls as two of the other characters. Made lots of new friends and posed with one of the best Lara Croft cosplayers, Vera Vanguard. Many of the Slave Leia's this year were absolute dolls.

The fans seemed more aggressive this year. I don't know why certain people think it's okay to put their hand on my ass or ask creepy questions (are you alone?) or try to start arguments with me because I'm in the middle of a telephone conversation and won't pose for a photo (boy did that guy get told off by Catwoman!). Comic Con is like a small country with no laws. There's way too many people and not enough security. I have the most problems at this show because there isn't a constant male companion at my side like there is at hometown shows. Maybe I should hire a bodyguard next year. lol Thank God for friends though. They kept me sane among the craziness. I guess I will finish out this blog by saying I was asked to return next year and probably will (I have a pretty sweet gig) and will probably take more days off before and after the show to recoup. I went back to work way too soon. Below are some of my favorite pics. Be sure to see the rest (as I slowly upload them) on my official Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/VictoriaCosplay

My personal experience @ Wizard World Philly 2011

2011-06-20T21:05:00.000-04:00

Imagine my surprise and delight when I recieved an email from Wizard personally inviting me to this years Wizard World Philly/ Philadelphia Comic Con convention! Not only was I given access to the three day event but I was also granted my own personal guest list to get my cosplay friends inside to enjoy all the glorious festivities! I also got Brian (one of my photographers) in with a press pass since he shoots all my events. As if that wasn't enough and didn't make me feel like the Belle of the Ball, I was also invited to the official launch party (which sadly I was unable to attend because I was with my family) and a private party hosted by my friend, pro wrestler The Smoke. Smallville and Dukes of Hazards star John Schneider joined us for dinner and he remembered me from earlier in the day as Wonder Woman. He was very impressed with my costume when I told him my friend Candy made it for me and he stroked the corset. hehe. We had a great chat with him over dinner. I also met actress Margot Kidder (Lois Lane) who was an absolute doll and funny as hell (she loved my costume too). After meeting Margot I posed with a fan who turned out to be Beauty and the Geek reality star Bill Lambing. He was a total sweetheart and when he saw me as Black Canary on Sunday he told me to "Stop being so hot!" I also posed with superstar artist Greg Horn who put on his Galactus hat for our photo! LOL

Okay so let's talk cosplay; Friday I debuted my brand new Wonder Woman costume made by my girl Candy who has her own boutique. Check it out at: http://www.threemusesclothing.com/ The outfit is absolutely amazing (thanks to the fans who sponsered it)! and I lost count with how many compliments I got on the costume. Everyone from celebrities to vendors to fans. One girl stopped me to tell me I was the best Wonder Woman at the show! I've been wanting to cosplay Diana since I was a little girl spinning in the living room watching the Lynda Carter series so thank you to Candy and the fans who sponsered it for making my dream come true! Saturday my girlfriends and I went to the show as the Gotham City Sirens! Once again, I lost count on how many people said how "Smokin' Hot" we all were. I'm so proud of my girls! A boy came up to me who couldn't have been older than 12 and says:

"Are you from Tennessee?" Thinking he had me confused with another online cosplayer, I said:

"No."

"Really? Cause you're the only ten I see." Ivy and I bursted out laughing; I can't believe I fell for that and it was so cute! The amount of compliments I recieved from men about my eyes were ridiculous. Again, people were saying I was the best Catwoman at the show and one woman marveled at my face saying I looked "Exactly like Selina!" Aside from posing for pics, converesing with Facebook, Twitter and Comic fans, friends and shopping, us ladies did a shoot with the original Batmobile. The owners are friends of mine and are great guys. We also did the first Cosplay Photoshoot gathering organzied by The Smoke and his friend Brian. I was a chairman for the gathering as well and it was a HUGE success; loads of cosplayers turned out! After the costume contest (where us Sirens pleased the crowd by giving them a view of our bums) we all went to dinner.

For Sunday's show I decided on Black Canary, which is one of my most comfortable costumes. Catwoman is also very, very comfy. I was surprised by the Sunday crowd; in the past it was usually the slowest day with a considerable less amount of people but it was just as busy as Saturday. What a great turnout! I expected a day of granting a lot less photo requests but I was still approached every few feet which was very cool. I literally had men studdering! I only kept my jacket on for a few minutes before deciding to take it off because I was hot. Sunday we also had a second cosplay shoot where my personal favorite moment was Superboy asking if he could lift me on his shoulder. And may I add that there were many hot cosplayer men at this year's show. Hello Wolverine and Superboy! Our second cosplay shoot was a success and we have some big plans next year. I'm so honored to be a chairman of the shoot!

Also chatted with industry friends Ken Haeser, Raven Gregory and Eric Basaldua. I got a spanking from one of them (guess who?) In closing I want to once again thank Wizard for their amazing generosity! I've been attending the show the last 10 years and it always gets better and better. I am so grateful that they took care of all of my friends and I had an absolute blast with them! I also made tons of new friends! I'm going to leave you now with a few more of my favorite shots and some of the best cosplayers at this year's event and also add that I have been cast in the next DC Comics fan film! Who will I play? Stay tuned!

Cosplay Spotlight: Hannah

2011-05-29T11:06:00.000-04:00

Known as one of the best Harley Quinn cosplayers this side of the East Coast, Hannah sends comic book fans into a frenzy when she arrives on the convention floor. Her accurate costume combined with her bubbly attitude and striking physical resemblance leads one to believe that one of Bruce Timm's drawings has spontaneously sprung to life. I've observed Hannah at several conventions and events and witnessed the joy she brings to those around her. I'm so proud to call her my friend and have chosen her for the very first Cosplay Spotlight on my Blog. Read on to learn more about this truly amazing and talented artist who to many, is the one and only Harley Quinn.

Victoria: How long have you been cosplaying Harley Quinn and what made you decide to cosplay the character?

Hannah: I started cosplaying Harley in 2008. Some friends invited me to go to a convention with them, and they were planning on dressing up. Being that Harley is my FAVORITE comic character, it was a total no-brainer. She is spunky, creative, twisted, crazy and fun, so I totally identify with her

Victoria: Tell me about making the costume. You made it yourself, correct?

Hannah: Yes, I did make it myself. I had taken a basic sewing course in middle school and embroidered when I was a kid, but that was about the extent of my sewing experience. When I searched for information on Harley costumes that I could buy, they came up at $50 each, and were really not good quality...plus the color combination was off. I'm kind of a perfectionist, and I wasn't willing to let those things happen if I was going to spend $50 on the costume.

Victoria: How long does it take you to put the clown makeup on?

Hannah: It usually takes around an hour and a half to two hours. I use a powder base for the white face, which takes several layers. The mask is painted by hand using Ben Nye Aquacake. That's why the mask is slightly different each time I wear it. I prefer to use paint rather than latex for the mask, because Harley's mask acts like "eyebrows" to express her emotions. I find it more expressive to keep that a part of the look.

Victoria: Harley has sported a few different costume designs. What are your thoughts on her attire in Arkham Asylum and Arkham City and would you ever cosplay any of those outfits?

Hannah: Oy, I hate the Arkham Asylum outfit! It's like sexy nurse, middle school girl, goth, punk, grunge...all rolled up in one, un-Harleyesque outfit. Plus I don't think those things work well together. It doesn't fit well with the classy, sexy image she's had for so long.

Victoria: How do you feel about Harley's abusive relationship with the Joker?

Hannah: Harley's relationship with the Joker is really tough to manage, IMO. It's a real love/hate situation--the times when he acts sweet addicts her to him, and she sees him in "Harley-vision" as this wonderful, sweet, loving man who cares for her. Every now and then she gets moments of clarity: when Joker kicks her out of his gang, or does something terrible to her that makes her leave him. Those moments of clarity show that she can in some ways comprehend and digest the fact that he might not be the one for her. In reality, I think all she really wants is a man who she cares for, and who loves her (and makes her laugh).

Victoria: What about her close relationship with Poision Ivy?

Hannah: Harley as a character has the unique ability as a character to serve as a sidekick, partner or the leader of a gang. With Ivy, she was initially more of a sidekick, and has through time become a partner in their crime sprees. They've developed a very close relationship--often based in Ivy trying to save Harl from the Joker, Harley making somewhat of an effort, and then ending up pulled back to the Joker (or getting them landed in Arkham), thus enraging Ivy who refuses to talk to her again. It's happened a few times, most recently in a recent issue of Gotham City Sirens. We'll see how this one plays out.

Victoria: What other characters have you dressed as?

Hannah: I've cosplayed as a casual version of Harley Quinn, from Gotham City Sirens as well. I've also dressed as Princess Garnet/Dagger, from Final Fantasy 9, and Sailor Moon, from the first season of her show. I have two costumes of Katara from Avatar: The Last Airbender, one from the second book and the other as her Fire Nation disguise.

Victoria: Any future cosplays you have in store?

Hannah: Right now I am finishing up a Tomoe Tachibana costume, from Trauma Team, which you can see some pictures of on my Facebook. I am also working up a Harley-as-Arkham-Inmate costume for Wizard World Philly. My plan next year is to try to focus on doing Arkham City Harley.

Don't forget to check me out as Miss March at ComicBooked.com, as well as my Facebook page!
http://www.comicbooked.com/miss-march-cause-player-of-the-month/
http://www.facebook.com/hanpancosplay

Shooting for Latina Magazine

2011-05-17T19:34:00.000-04:00

I've been reading Latina magazine since day one. I remember my mother spotting it on the shelfs of a drug store while the family was on vacation down the Jersey Shore. Jennifer Lopez was on the cover (back in her dark haired days) promoting the movie "Money Train". This magazine was important to me and the women in my family; it was made just for us and this year, Latina (which is sold nationwide) is celebrating their 15th year in publication. I was recently asked to be part of their "Real Women" feature and this past Saturday I made my first trip to New York for a fitting at the Latina office on Madison Avenue. It was very surreal for me. I've been reading this book since I was a kid so this was a dream come true. My family was very proud of me not only for making it into a national magazine but for a book that gives our women a voice. In the office was a framed photo of the first issue with Jennifer Lopez. That was very cool for me to see!

The fitting was fun; I tried on lots of clothes, shoes and accessories for the fashion editior. When all was said and done I headed out with my ex husband to F.A.O. Schwartz before meeting my gal pal at Central Park. We all walked to the M&M store then to Times Square. After a visit to the Disney Store and grabbing lunch it was time to head home (just in time to beat the rain storm).

So today was the shoot in Brooklyn and it went well. Biggest set I've been on (aside from being on a movie set). I loved how they did my hair and makeup and everyone was nice and professional. The fashion editior is an absolute doll. I will be in the September issue which means it will be on sale in August so mark your calendar's! My friends and family have been so damn supportive and in all honesty it was with the encouragement of one friend why I got this gig in the first place. He (a highly successful professional model himself) has complete and utter faith in me and believes in me 110%. So thanks to him and everyone else in my life. Love you! See you on the newstands!

Free Comic Book Day & New Tomb Raider cosplay

2011-05-15T08:25:00.000-04:00

As everyone in the comic book community knows, May 7th marked national Free Comic Book Day! For some of us this is better than Christmas and is an unofficial start to the convention season. After making an appearance at the Comics and More store last year as Black Canary, I was asked to return this year as the Mistress of Magic herself, Zatanna. The crowds were huge and I caught up with friends and made some new ones along the way. Other cosplayers in attendence were some Jedi and a lady pirate! My friend Steve Morrison from the Preston and Steve show on WMMR stopped by the shop to say hello to me which was very generous. Employees and fans enjoyed taking pics with him too! It was like having a surprise guest!

Now I am embarassed to admit this because in my six years of cosplay I've never done this before but I forgot one of my accessories (granted, I didn't wear my hair piece's as Slave Leia to the Philly Comic Con last year but that's because they broke the night before and sometimes I don't wear the arm band because it slides off my arm). I realized (when it was far too late) that I forgot to pack my bow tie for my neck. I was so disappointed in myself; I strive to make my cosplays perfect but no one noticed and I still got compliments on how much fans loved my costume. Some of my Twittter follwers came out to meet me and I even helped one shop for a trade paper back. It was very cool; I have the sweetest fans and it was great to meet them. One of them made a video of the event and I'm in it. You can check it out here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEy7TaCTJG8

And here is my official gallery (click the images for larger versions)! At the end of the day I got the Micheal Turner Supergirl mini statue. How I love thee!

Prior to FCBD my new Tomb Raider Legend cosplay arrived. The outfit came with the top, backpack, shorts, belt with gun holsters and boot covers. The guns were not included but I had the guns I bought a few years ago that was part of a police officer Halloween set. I have to admit, after trying it on for the first time and looking in the mirror I squealed in delight. The overall effect was just awesome. People have told me for years that I look like Angelina Jolie (or her daughter or younger sister) and the video game version of Lara. The Legend costume has a much more powerful effect than the Catsuit cosplay. I can honestly say that Lara Croft is the ONLY cosplay where I feel like I become the character and embody her spirit. With all the other characters I still feel like me; I still feel like Vicki but with Lara I feel a connection and it is deeply personal. To find out why, check out this entry: http://victoriacosplay.blogspot.com/2010/10/why-lara-croft-is-my-hero.html

Anyways, my bff and I took some shots with my camera at a local park and in less that 24 hours the debut photo made it on the site Kotaku. I sometimes find that cosplay pictures that I take with my own camera become more popular than professional photos. I wonder why that is? The Tomb Raider gallery has also been updated on my website: http://cosplaygirl.webs.com/laracrofttombraider.htm

And right before FCBD was May 4th, national Star Wars day! I made it onto several sites for my Slave Leia cosplay. Can we say awesome?

http://networkedblogs.com/ht49x

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=665451&id=154641491225838

http://www.geeksaresexy.net/2011/05/04/cosplay-the-all-leia-edition-pics/

http://www.gearsofhalo.com/2011/03/one-leia-to-rule-them-all.html

An encounter with the Full Metal Alchemist

2011-03-20T18:08:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, March 19th I hosted an exclusive dinner for voice actor Vic Mignogna (best known as Ed Elric from Full Metal Alchemist) and members of his fan club. This was something that I had been planning for a while and I had called The Cheesecake Factory in advance to confirm that they would take our reservation. I was assured that they would but when it was the day to actually make the reservation, I was told that I couldn't because our party was too large and they only take reservations during lunch hour. Needless to say, I began to panic.

Dozens of emails were all ready sent out to Rangers and I arrived at the mall early to try to find another resturant who could accommodate our party. No one would. Now that plan B failed it was time to move onto C. I would still meet everyone outside The Cheescake Factory and once they all arrived we would take the party to the food court around the corner. The plan worked and Vic arrived to a cheering crowd bringing fellow actor Todd Haberkorn (who plays Ling on "Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood) . I went to greet him, introduced myself and told him the situation. Unfortunately Vic had some news of his own; he had a prior commitment and couldn't stay for dinner. Vic also inquired why I didn't attend the anime show (and jokingly pulled my hair and pretended to choke me) and invited me to the show the next day as his guest. I promised to attend in the morning before traveling to Philadelphia for a photoshoot (how could I say no?) and he made the call to make sure I would get into the show. I accompained Vic as he addressed his fans, expressing his love and appreciation for them and apologizing that he couldn't stay. He did encourage us to remain and have dinner with the fellow rangers and then proceeded to take pictures and sign autographs. If anyone wants to witness a true display of fan appreciation, this is the man to watch. He is genuinely gracious and generous to his supporters and was sure he spoke to every person present. In true Vic fashion he gave out plenty of hugs and kisses (yes, I got some too). It was considerate of him to spend time with us even though he could not stay and also bringing Todd as an added bonus.

Afterwards us Rangers shared dinner and it was wonderful to get to know each other and make new friends. One of them even gave me some scented soaps as a thank you for organizing the dinner. Sunday morning (after getting very little sleep because of a current cold I'm fighting) I threw on my Zatanna costume (and went with a very different look; wavy hair and natural makeup because I had the shoot afterwards) and headed to the anime convention with my ex husband. At the front desk there was a pass waiting for me courtesy of Vic and we were lead to the room he was in. Head of security, Kiwi was there to take care of us and I got a great big hug and kiss from Vic when he was able to come over. He asked how the dinner went, wanted to make sure I got into the show okay and thanked me for organizing the dinner. I was incredibly grateful for his generosity for getting me into the show and had a fun time shopping and talking to con goers. When it was time to leave, I thanked Vic again and he said he hopes we will meet again soon. I hope so too.

After my vintage shoot (I loved it!), it was finally time to go home and rest. The dinner didn't turned out as planned but with a little faith, perseverance not to mention an incredible guest of honor, it turned out beautifully and I got to attend the show as his guest. Safe to say, things definately turned out amazingly well!

P.S.
I got a Ed's State Alchemist pocket watch!!!

God Bless

xoxo
Victoria

Cosplay upgrades, alterations & more!

2011-03-14T23:47:00.000-04:00

Ookie Dookie, Friday night I finally whipped out my Hermione Granger wig to give it a hair cut. I originally purchased this wig for my Justice League Unlimited Hawkgirl cosplay but I retired that outfit with the quickness (those stupid wings were a freakin' pain in the butt). I held onto the wig and used it for a Belle shoot (which I will be redoing cause the wig isn't the right shade of brown for Belle) and my Hermione shoot. That was two years ago so I decided to finally make the wig officially Hermione and brought out the scissors. A friend and I plan to cosplay for the midnight showing of Deathly Hallows part 2 which will take place before I leave for San Diego! I love how the wig looks; it's so much better and just screams Mudblood, um I mean Granger!

My Saturday began with an invitation to a Horror Show (that I also attended last year). Last year I cosplayed Black Canary for the show and it was a big hit but this time around I wanted to go more with the theme so I did an Alice in Wonderland goth makeup test Saturday morning (the show was Sunday afternoon). I used white makeup, black eyeliner, black lipstick and my Supergirl wig. I loved the result and was super excited. I ventured out to three stores and was certain one of them would have an Alice dress, right? WRONG! I was outta luck and the closest thing I found (dark) fairy tale related was a Red Riding Hood cape. I was severely bummed because I had my heart set on Alice but I relented and bought the cape then headed back to the mall.

I found a store were corsets were on sale so I picked up two of them; one red and one white for Zatanna. Then I purchased a red skirt and headed home to expermient. In the end I combined fishnets with boy shorts, Mary Janes shoes, my Supergirl wig and basket from my Snow White shoot. I threw in a wolf that came with my Barbie Red Riding Hood set and viola! Instant Red Riding Hood! It was literally put together in a few hours. I have never put a costume together so fast and this wasn't based on any particular version of Red. I just went with what was classic (blonde hair) and obvious (red clothes) and sexed it up. I think the result was pretty impressive and fans loved it at the Horror Show!

So next came the Zatanna upgrade. Dun, dun, dun! When I first put the costume together early last year, I had the worst time ever finding a corset that fit me. I'm so tiny and very skinny so I had to settle for the tank top version you see on my site. I was thrilled when I finally tried on a white corset that fit me! I think the costume looks a million times more fabulous now and sexier than ever! Sunday I attened the show and had a blast. You can read all about that in my pervious entry: http://victoriacosplay.blogspot.com/2011/03/so-i-was-banned-from-facebook.html

I plan to do a pro shoot with the Red Riding Hood costume when the weather gets warmer and I am not giving up on Alice! I will get a dress soon enough and again, will do an outdoor shoot soon.

True it was stressful putting a costume together so fast but if anyone can work under those conditions, it's the Cosplay Girl! I also like upgrading my all ready exisiting costumes and making them better than ever before. Zatanna comes so easy for me; I guess it's because I all ready have black hair and usually wear red lipstick. I feel the most like me in that costume cause I'm not really altering my look. I still look like me, just wearing Z's clothes. lol Oh and my super fabulous comissioner is making my brand spanking new Supergirl Michael Turner outfit and it will be ready in 4 weeks! Can't wait and thanks again to the fans who donoted all that money so I could get the new costume! I will keep my promisel; you will get autographed pics of me in that outfit once it's complete!

xoxo

God Bless

Victoria

So I was banned from Facebook

2011-03-13T18:25:00.000-04:00

For the past few days I have been getting Facebook warnings on a daily basis saying that my modeling pictures violate Terms of Service. It all began with someone reporting one of my Bettie Page pictures, then they reported all of my implied topless shots. If you read the Terms of Service it states you cannot upload anything pornographic or sexually explicit. My pictures are ART and all of my naughty bits are covered. There's nothing sexually explicit about them and if you think that qualifies as porn, then clearly you've never seen a porno.

Obviously someone is out to get me, being that I was being reported almost on a daily basis. This morning my accounts were disabled and I have been banned on Facebook. The outraged emails from fans poured in and traffic on my site went through the roof and I got dozens more followers on Twitter. So thank you to the pathetic stalker/hater out there who has nothing else better to do than report my pics! Looks like I'm more popular than ever now! I've been cosplaying for five years, modeling for 2 years and I made a name for myself long before I created a facebook account a year ago. Just like I proved I didn't need to win a voting contest to go to the 2010 San Diego Comic Con (I dropped out then I was hired by Gentle Giant and got mad press as Slave Leia and will be returning this year), I'm going to prove that I don't need Facebook to further my career. I have nine lives; I always land on my feet. I'm a hydra; cut my head off and three more will grow back.

And just to show you how BEAUTIFUL karma is and the balance of the universe, on the very day I was banned from the most bogus social networking site on the web, I got to meet the orginal Catwoman, actress Lee Merriweather! I also met Birds of Prety actress (Batgirl/Oracle) Dina Meyer! She gave me a hug and said I was beautiful and loved my new Red Riding Hood outfit! I met the wonderful people who run an animal rescue center for Yorkies (will prob be doing some work with them) and I also hung with some friends (Comic artist and creator Ken Haeser and my gal pal Amber Love who is a journalist/cosplayer) and made new contacts. Fans loved my new Red Riding Hood costume and I posed for tons of pics. So you can suck on that while you mope about your virginity or scarf a box of donuts. The one and only Cosplay Girl is here to stay now and forever and will live on through my site, Twitter, Flickr, Deviant Art & Blog. God Bless!

Becoming the Queen of Pin-Ups: Bettie Page

2011-03-05T22:18:00.000-05:00

I've always wanted to do a Bettie Page themed photoshoot. I absolutely love her style; I am very much into jet black hair, fire red lips and black clothing. It's the reason why I love women like Bettie, Liz Taylor, Jane Russell (who passed away this week) and Angelina (in her dark haired days). I've adapted that look myself; I even dye my hair black (it's naturally brown). Anywho, I was recently contacted by a photographer named Ken who wanted to work with me and when I suggested Bettie Page for a theme, he thought it was a great idea. We shot at an abandoned movie theatre that had no heat (in Feburary). We froze our butts off but it was worth it! I also took some black and white shots with my own camera, mirroring some of the pictures on the official Bettie Page website. Those pics are by Brian G.

I didn't need a wig for this shoot. I curled my bangs with a large barrel curling iron then pinned them. I also purchased and watched the 2005 bio pic "The Notorious Bettie Page" before the shoot. Great movie!

Ken and I shot outside the theatre and inside as well. We also squeezed in some Black Canary (corset version) shots that I am very pleased with. Heck, I'm pleased with all of the pictures! So happy it all came together smoothly for the love of art! I've officially retired the body suit version of Canary. I like the corset version better and it's also more flattering for my figure.

A little bit ago I got an incredible email from an artist who said that he's been unable to paint for the past five years due to personal reasons. He suddenly became inspired to pick up a brush again after reading a short story I posted on my Blog and seeing my pics. He's currently working on a painting based on one of my Cleopatra photos. He's calling me his "muse" and I was floored that my words and photos could drive someone to practice their craft once again. It truly touched my heart and I can't wait to see the painting when it's done! And finally, last monthh I was featured on Nerd Bastards "Sexy Cosplay of the Week": http://nerdbastards.com/2011/02/04/sexy-cosplay-of-the-week-cosplaygirl/

Marking 12 years since the day I nearly died

2011-03-01T11:25:00.000-05:00

Going out for a drive with your mother to run some errands is something that millions of teenagers do every day. After making the rounds to the grocery store, the bank or car wash you head home to prepare dinner and spend time with the family. On March 1, 1999 however, my mother and I never made it home. While traveling down the highway, a car in the opposite lane went through a red light and hit my mother's car (she was driving). Our 4x4 Blazer spun across the highway before smashing into a telephone pole. I was in the passenger's seat where the telephone pole had struck and was trapped. I was in and out of consciousness. I recall the first thing I saw was my left hand and it was bleeding. My mother was holding it. It was a cold day and several people were standing around watching us. One man said help was on the way. I couldn't feel nor see my right arm and feared it had been cut off. I kept passing out and when I woke up, my mother was gone and I could hear and feel a drill on the door that was crushed up against me. It took firemen twenty minutes to get me out with the jaws of life.

In the ambulance, my leather jacket was cut off of my body and I was screaming that it was my bestfriend's birthday. I remember arriving at the hospital but then blacked out. When I woke up again I was in ICU and recall seeing a clock on the wall that was set to milary time and several men and women in white coats. I thought I was going to die. I honestly thought this was it and I didn't know what happend to my mother. When I awoke again I was surrounded by what looked like my entire family. Everyone was crying and upset, my mother was gripping my hand. Turns out I had 17 fractures, two blood transfusions and three titanium rods were put in my body; two in my right arm, one in my right leg. Doctor's weren't sure if I'd be able to walk again.

It's amazing when you can no longer do simple things like tie your shoes or go to the bathroom by yourself. Standing is impossible and it is a truly scary thought indeed when no one knows if you will even be able to walk. I spent about two months in two seperate hospitals and was released early because of my determination in therepy. I pushed myself because I wanted to go home and be with my family. The power of prayer also prevailed; I was told I should have died and it was a miracle I was alive. Furthermore I did NOT sustain any head or back injuries. Once I began therepy I was told I should be walking within a year and a half, maybe one year. I was walking again in nine months. I was apparently a miracle and it was because of the love of my family and friends and prayer.

So now it's twelve years later. I have since gotten the metal rods removed from my arm but still have the one in my leg. I have scars on my arm, wrist and leg and suffer from bone pain when winter hits or when it rains. But I am alive so I have no complaints. It wasn't my time to go. I truly feel I lived to be part of my niece's lives. They were born a few years after the accident. I continue to draw breath for them. I have two successful careers as a teacher and a model, have my loving family and friends and I beat the odds by living and walking. Life hasn't been easy, but that ordeal taught me alot about my self, my faith and the importance of family and loved ones.

Cosplay 101: How to approach a Cosplayer

2011-02-12T10:04:00.000-05:00

Convention season is fast approaching and you know what that means; comics, celebrities, toys, panels and cosplayers! Oh my! Cosplayers at a comic convention are like the actors at Disney World. They bring a little bit of extra magic to the experience and release your inner child. Upon laying eyes on the real life Rogue or Harley Quinn, you literally squeal with delight and make a mad dash towards your favorite character, camera in hand. Yes, it's surreal to be standing by the side of your childhood hero but this is where the lines of fantasy and reality tend to get blurred.

Con goers can sometimes get overly excited and due to this excitement, they may treat the cosplayers in an inappropriate fashion. You're no longer viewing the cosplayer as a person; you're treating them as cartoon or toy that has suddenly sprung to life. True, cosplayers come to expect to be approached and asked to pose for photographs but we also expect to be treated as human beings. This philosophy also falls into place when photographing a "booth babe". Remember; we are fans too and are there to enjoy the show as well. Having both experienced attending shows as a cosplayer and working at events as a booth babe, I've decided to dedicate an article about rules and guidlines that people should take into consideration when approaching a cosplayer.

#1. Please don't disturb our phone calls

This pet peeve ranks number one with me. I absolutely cannot stand it when someone interupts me when I am talking on my cell phone at a show. To disrupt a person's call is considered rude in the real world and why people think it's okay to do it to cosplayers and models at a convetion boggles my mind. I have flat out said "No" to people who have interupted me when I was talking on my phone. Unless our costumes are torn, someone got shot or the building is burning down there is no reason why you can't wait until the cosplayer is finished with their call. All of the convetions I attend are NOT local for me. I travel a pretty good distance. Take the 2010 San Diego Comic-Con for example. I was thousand of miles from home. I had never been all the way across the country before and so far away from my friends and family. My family was constantly checking up on me and words cannot express how much I missed them. I'm not going to stop whoever I am talking to mid sentence so someone can take a shot of me. I don't turn my phone off in case of family emergencies (which has happened before). So please wait until someone is off the phone to request a picture of them. You never know who they are talking to or what's going on in their personal life and it's not the end of the world if you don't get a shot.

#2. Use your 'Inside Voice'.

Be honest; how many of you enjoy being literally screamed at every few minutes? Screaming may catch someone's attention but it also can make someone highly uncomfortable and can literally make someone jump out of their skin. Imagine someone running up to you at 100 miles per hour as they're screaming at the top of their lungs. What would your first instinct be? Probably to turn around and run in the other direction! I understand you're bursting with excitement at the sight of three Slave Leia's but there's no need to shout in our faces so try using your inside voice.

#3. Respect the children

If you think attending these shows releases your inner child imagine what it's like to actually be a child at these events. Cosplayers like myself love to see the chidlren's faces light up and take the time to talk to the kids at eye level and spend a little time with them. Please don't disturb these moments and don't take the magic away. You can wait your turn.

#4. Bathroom breaks

Yes it's been known to happen; every once in a while Captain America has got to pee! If you see a cosplayer with their sights set on the loo and their making a mad dash for it, for the love of God let them go to the bathroom! You can ask for a photo once their blatter is empty.

#5. We get hungry too

Let's face it; convention food is probably worse than hospital food and it costs $10 just for a hot dog. Despite this fact, us cosplayers still get hungry and we also need to rest our feet. Please let us relax and enjoy a meal so we don't end up passing out on the convention floor. Furthermore we don't need to worry if we have ketchup on our face or if our lipstick needs retouching because we were chowing down on that over priced hot dog.

#6. Watch the hands, pal!

I think most cosplayers would agree with me that we don't mind if a fan places their arm around us as we pose for a photo but watch those hands! Don't try to cop a feel or grab our lady (or man) parts. If you want to sweep a cosplayer off their feet or have a different idea for a photo, be sure to ask first and keep it decent. If you're making crude requests or gropping a cosplayer guess what; that qualifies as sexual harassment and you will get into trouble with authorities.

So there you have it! I hope you found this article enlighting and that it gave you con goers a different prespective of what cosplayers go through. Just remember that cosplayers are people too and we simply ask for consideration and respect when strutting our stuff on the convention floor! See you at the cons!

http://www.cosplaygirl.webs.com/

www.facebook.com/VictoriaCosplay

www.twitter.com/VictoriaCosplay

Enormous Emptiness

2011-02-01T07:34:00.000-05:00

She has been named one of the most beautiful women in the world. She's been called a princess and labeled a goddess. She is adored, envied and bathes in the glow she illuminates which is best described as magical. Although she possesses beauty, charm, intellegence and strength she has yet to find someone who is worthy of her heart. True she is enjoying her remarkable life but there are moments when the princess hangs her head in sorrow due to the enormous emptiness in her heart.

~Victoria

Happy birthday to me!

2011-01-30T13:11:00.000-05:00

It's so funny I was born in the month of January because it is my most hated month ever (although I love being an Aquarius)! The east coast is getting slammed with snow storm after snow storm and more is on the way. Boy am I sick of it! Despite the weather, some of my friends made the trip out for my birthday dinner which I appreciate beyond words, some even driving from out of state! It was a lovely dinner and we had lots of laughs. Gratitude to everyone who came out and for my adorable Disney Princess cake! According to the candles, I'm six years old. lol

One of my fans by the name of Rene created this awesome drawing of me in my Cinderella Fables cosplay for my birthday. Be sure to check out his Deviant Art gallery and my thanks to him: http://rene-l.deviantart.com/ Fan art always blow my mind. I'm astonished anyone would want to draw me and these are actual fan work, not commissions (in other words, I did not pay someone to draw me).

The following morning after my birthday, I had a James Bond photoshoot scheduled but it fell through. It's okay though because I got to spend the rest of the day/weekend with someone special and we got to relax. Special shout out to my friend Keith, who was a fan I met at the San Diego show. We've become good friends and he sent me an Amazon giftcard for my bday!

One of my cosplay girl friends told me I am featured on this "Hot Chicks in Catwoman Costumes" list (she made it too)! These seem to be a random collection and don't appear to be in any specific order. I'm #46: http://www.buzzfeed.com/gavon/hot-chicks-in-catwoman-costumes

The Preston and Steve show updated my photo gallery on their website. My undying gratitude to them; I've been doing camera work for them 2 years come June and they have always supported me in my cosplay/modeling career. http://www.wmmr.com/shows/preston-and-steve/photos/girls/photopages/Photos.aspx?AlbumID=102721

Transforming into the Queen of Egypt

2011-01-09T14:44:00.000-05:00

To say I was excited about my upcoming Cleopatra photoshoot is an understatement. I study ancient Egypt as a hobby and collect anything related to the topic. Needless to say, this shoot was my idea. I purchased a wig from this great store I recently discovered and the headress I got at Party City. It had a stupid foam snake attached so I cut it off and purchased a stone at the craft store that my friend taped on (using fashion tape). I had two friends accompany me to this shoot who were a great help to me (Thanks Hannah & Brian!). The outfit is combination of some fabric Hannah and I picked out (the gold) and the purple one is just one of my curtains. Hannah was a pro and applied fashion tape and pins to make it hold together. I did not do the makeup.

The shoot wasn't easy sailing but I am extremly pleased with the shots thus far. I do plan on doing another Egyptian themed shoot in the future. There are things I want to change. I definately want an authentic dress, prehaps a new headdress and eye makeup closer to Elizabeth Taylor's in the Cleopatra film. In all honesty I would love to have body paint like Patrica Velasquez in "The Mummy". Oh and the mirror shaped ankh I am holding in the photo to the left is one of the many things I picked up at the Cleopatra exhibit back in December.

In teacher news, I am prepping my kids to perform at our school's Winter Gala this week. Their such good little singers! Should be fun. I think the only thing left to mention is that I met somone who is best described as increbily classy and a real gentleman. We met a couple months ago and are taking it slow but I will say right now that he is absolutely amazing and beautiful and I can't remember the last time I was treated with such respect.

Christmas, goodbye to 2010 & the Queen of Egypt

2010-12-27T21:28:00.000-05:00

This Christmas was certainly a hectic holiday between balancing teaching, modeling, a social life and holiday shopping it clearly was a nutty time of the year! I'm glad it's over but it was a beautiful holiday. I spent it out of town with family, attended a Christmas Eve family gathering and enjoyed giving gifts. I got some great gifts in return not only from family but my students as well. I also got a Christmas card from the Robot Chicken team!

Before Christmas I went to the Franklin Institute to finally see the Cleopatra exhibit (which closes in the New Year) and it took my breath away! I'm all ready obsessed with ancient Egypt so to see artifacts in person was mind blowing. They had a document she actually signed in addition to statues, jewelry and money. They had two statues that reached from ceiling to floor that were stunning. Needless to say I went nuts in the giftshop and spoiled myself. I have an egyptian themed photoshoot that I'm doing in the New Year along with another shoot based on a super spy!

I did a lingerie photoshoot with one of my favorite photographers, Stephen. My inspiration was actress Jane Russell who stared in several classic films including 'The Outlaw' and 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes'. I had a meeting with a filmmaker who is making a documentery on cosplayers and he wants to feature me in it. We are suppose to start shooting sometime in January. Very excited! It's going to give viewers a look into the normal lives of cosplayers and what they do at conventions. I'm also slated to appear as a Special Guest at a local comic show in April. So things are going well; January looks like it's going to be busy and I will be celebrating my bday at the end of the month along with my youngest niece. Speaking of my niece, she has requested I dress up as Rapunzel just for her so we can have a playdate! So she has officially picked my next cosplay!

So the year is almost over. Man it has been crazy. I had a lot of heartache. Many broken relationships with men, one abusive, but there has also been some good. I was a big hit at the Philadelphia comic con where I made headlines with Playboy Model and America's Next Top Model Winner Adrianne Curry (who is the coolest woman in the world), traveled to California for the San Diego Comic Con to work for Gentle Giant, was featured in an ad for Dark Horse comics, MTV (twice), interviewed by Newsarama, Spike tv, G4tv, Esquire, got tons of modeling assignments but most importantly I have made lots of new friends. I have learned a lot of life lessons in this year alone and have become a much stronger person because of it. I have been told several times that I am brave and strong and I really do believe that. I also know that I am loved and I have left behind all of the negativity and have embraced peace. I am so blessed to have my careers, family and friends and I truly feel I am at a happy place right now.

I took a lot of photos in 2010. I think my favorite pic this year is the one of Seth Green and I at the Empire Strikes Back G4 after party. Still can't believe I partied with him and other celebs!

Goodbye 2010! I learned a lot this year and it was full of hardships and blessings. I have two goals for 2011. I'll be moving again towards the end of the year and the other goal is more of a New Year's Wish. Here's hoping it will come true ;)

You asked, I answered.

2010-12-03T21:29:00.000-05:00

Back when I was still writing for http://www.majorspoilers.com/ I had a popular feature called "Confessions of a Cosplay Girl: Ask Victoria" where readers would submit their questions for me to answer. Check out the older articles here (part 3 was lost due to the site crashing):
http://www.majorspoilers.com/confessions-of-a-cosplay-girl-ask-victoria-part-one
http://www.majorspoilers.com/confessions-of-a-cosplay-girl-ask-victoria-part-2

I'm continuing that on my Blog. Recently on my Facebook Fan page (www.facebook.com/VictoriaCosplay) I asked for fans to send in their questions and the emails poured in. You asked and now I have answered!

Big Bad Wolf asks: Why did you drop out of the Zenescope Girl of the Year contest? What happend?

Victoria: I no longer wished to be affliated with Zenescope for a variety of reasons and didn't want to attend the San Diego show on their behalf if I won. My reasons were personal and I have never made them public because that would be unprofessional although I have told several individuals in private. I'm still friends with some of the company's talent but not the company itself. As everyone knows I ended up attending the 2010 San Diego Comic Con on behalf of the prestigious Gentle Giant Studios, http://www.leiasmetalbikini.com/ and http://www.threemusesclothing.com/ and recieved media attenion from Spike TV, G4 tv, Esquire, the Hollywood Reporter, San Diego's Fox channel and dozens of comic based sites. I was extermely honored and truly feel nothing could have matched that experience and the amazing people I got to work with. And to take part in the famous Slave Leia gathering; how can you top that??

Paul asks: Why don't you write for Major Spoilers anymore?

Victoria: My personal life got very hectic and I work as a full time preschool teacher and part time model. Although I love writing and miss it, I was burnt out and simply didn't have the time.

CultureShock asks: Have you had any plastic surgery done? Lips, botox or implants?

Victoria: No, I'm all natural!

Michelle asks: Is it true you use to be married?

Victoria: Yes, I was married for several years but am now divorced. I'm proud to say that my ex husband is one of my bestfriends.

Ben10fan asks: I heard you were a teacher and my question is have your pictures gotten you in any trouble or fired? They're pretty racy.

Victoria: No trouble yet. My coworkers are aware that I am a professional model and some have seen a few of my photos and the issue hasn't come up.

Chris asks: How often do you go to the gym?

Victoria: This question always cracks me up because I haven't been to the gym in ten years! Aside from daily walks, I don't excercise at all.

Matt asks: What's your ethnicity?

Victoria: I'm Puerto Rican American with a touch of Italian.

Ricky asks: Your eyes look different colors in photos. Do you wear contacts?

Victoria: No, I do not. Sometimes a photographer may photoshop and enhance my eyes but most of the time they are untouched. My eyes are naturally green.

Ian asks: How much do you pay photographers for your photos?

Victoria: I've only paid one photographer and that was for special portraits I got done for my birthday. Every other photoshoot I've done was either a job I was hired for or a trade with a photographer.

Featured on MTV, fighting bronchitis & Harry @ midnight

2010-11-19T17:41:00.000-05:00

Imagine my delight and surprise when I was contacted by MTV requesting permission to feature my Hermione Granger cosplay pictures on their Blog! You can check out the article here:

http://clutch.mtv.com/2010/11/17/18-photos-of-sexy-ladies-in-hermione-costumes/#more-11321

OMG I am THRILLED to be on MTV's site (FUCK YEAH! Score another one for me! lol) especially because it's Harry Potter related (I'm a HUGE fan) and this article was written to tie in with the release of the Deathly Hallows. My friends and family were so proud, especially my mom and dad!

I went to a midnight showing last night (preordered my tickets two weeks ago) and the film was beautifully done! Really, it was brilliant how they transfered the story to the screen and they choose a good spot to stop the film. Loved how the Tale of the Three Brothers was done in CG. I'm sure I'll head to the theatre at least one more time to see it. Can't wait for the second half in July! I asked my exhusband to go see the film with me. Despite everything we are still great friends and enormous HP fans! I think I'll cosplay for the final film.

I've been battling a nasty case of bronchitis but I wasn't going to let that stop me from seeing the film! I'm starting to feel better. A few weeks ago I shot two days in a row for three different photographers. The first was with my bestfriend Nikki who is AMAZING! We did a faiy tale theme and Lara Croft.

^This shot is superb! This may be my favorite Lara shot yet! Rest of the pics are here:

http://cosplaygirl.webs.com/laracrofttombraider.htm

^The fairy tale shots KILL ME! They came out so damn good! Nikki has such a great eye and artistic vision! Rest of the shots are here: http://cosplaygirl.webs.com/modelingphotos.htm

^This shot was taken by Theresa whom I had a ball working with. Should have the CD with the rest of the images soon.

By now everyone has seen the trailer for the Green Lantern film. I loved everything I saw except for the suit; it looks like Hal got it at Toon Town.

http://trailers.apple.com/trailers/wb/greenlantern/

My Slave Master Jamin sent me a shot from the Slave Gathering I haven't seen yet that I LOVE of Adrianne Curry and I sitting back to back. SO HOT!

Adrianne said I'm her favorite little Leia! I can't wait for next's year's show!

And in closing, several people have pulled me aside and said how different I've been lately. Everyone from family to friends to coworkers. They say I have my glow back and I seem happy again. Didn't realize I was truly coming across as miserable but I definately feel like a whole new person.

Ok, I lied! The last thing I want to say is Dan looks SO HOT in the new film! *sigh* My future husband....

The week of Halloween was a busy one...

2010-11-01T21:50:00.000-04:00

First thing I want to say is MY BROTHER IS OUT OF THE HOSPITAL! He's doing so well and I want to thank everyone who sent their warm thoughts and prayers!

I can't even begin to tell you the craziness of the week of Halloween! Monday a friend stayed the night with me, Tuesday I spent with my dad, Wednesday I got completely fucked up with my gal pal (GREAT TIMES!), Thursday night I actually stayed home, Friday night I had a date and Saturday I had first aid training, a comic show and went to a bar for the holiday! Mind you, I am a full time teacher so during the day I am working. The comic show was fun and I met some cosplayers and caught up with the lovely Amber whom I met last weekend at the Superhero fund raiser.

When I was gearing up as Black Canary I couldn't find the black ribbon I recently bought for my neck so I ended up using a black bra strap that I tied with a rubber band. Hey, it worked! Last mintue cosplay wardrobe malfunctions are always fun :P

I think the corset and panty version looks much better especially because you can see my figure. I don't think I'll be doing the bodysuit version anymore. That night to celebrate Halloween I went to a bar dressed as Robin with a friend:

I got some new images from a recent photoshoot. Some fashion shots and Supergirl. Here's my favorite of the new Supergirl shots:

Just looking st those boots make my feet hurt but there's no denying they look FABULOUS! You can see the updated gallery here: http://cosplaygirl.webs.com/supergirldccomics.htm

I did a sorta damsel in distress shoot and this one is my favorite outta the bunch:

It was an interesting theme. I got tired of being tied up for so long. lol. Rest of the shots are here:

http://cosplaygirl.webs.com/modelingphotos.htm

Now this is AMAZING! A fan named Daniel from Chile recently drew me drawing inspiration from a witch photo I took last year (2009). Here's the photo of me:

And here's Daniel's drawing:

How freakin cool is that? I'm always so touched and amazed when people take the time to make things like this for me. I have the best fans in the world!!!

Why Lara Croft is my hero

2010-10-30T21:37:00.000-04:00

Back in 1999 I was injured in an auto accident that left me with 17 fractures, two blood transfusions and three titanium rods implanted in my body. I was in a wheel chair for 9 months and sunk into a depression when I was finally released from the hospital. One of the many things I did to pass the time was play video games, specifically the Tomb Raider games. Unable to use my legs, I found that I could walk again through Lara Croft. Not only could I walk but I could travel the world and search for ancient artifacts and face the unknown.

One night I had a vivid dream that I actually was Lara. I guess you can call it my first cosplay dream. Dressed in her classic outfit, I looked down and discovered that I was standing on my own two feet. I immediately began to run, elated that I had my mobility back. My surgical scars were also gone. It was with great sadness that I woke up trapped in my own body again, unable to do antyhing. I worked very hard in therapy. My doctors said I would be walking again within 12 months or later. This was not acceptable to me and through blood, sweat and tears I was walking in 9 months.

Shortyly after the live action movie was released featuring my favorite woman in the world, Angelina Jolie. In 2006 I began the hobby of cosplay and in 2009 I put the catsuit version of Lara Croft together (as seen in the video games). I kept my darker hair mirroring Angelina (Lara's hair is light brown in the video games) so my cosplay is sort of a combination of the video game Lara and movie Lara.

Through that difficult time, Lara was an escape from reality for me. I was able to leave the wheel chair behind and do extrodinary things through her. She is the female version of the Batman. She has all the smarts and cool gadgets. It takes pure guts to do what she does. She is not gifted with super powers and yet does the most incredible things known to man. She is beautiful, sexy, brave, smart and never gives up. She can over come any obstacle.

Lara Croft is my hero because she literally inspired me to learn how to walk. There were often times where I felt trapped in my own body and through her I could live again.

So I decided to get a Blog...again.

2010-10-26T17:56:00.000-04:00

Been a few years but I decided to start a Blog once again. I guess it's a combination of a few things; the first that I miss writing and the second is because fans have been demanding it. Guess my website, Facebook fan page, Deviant Art, Twitter and Flickr account aren't enough. *sigh*

This past Saturday I went to Comic Fusion to meet up with my gal pal Hannah (the best Harley Quinn cosplayer in the world) and help raise money for charity. It was fun and I met two of her other lovely cosplay friends. They were both super sweet girls and the total the store ended up raising was something like $15,000. Yay! You can see all the pics on my Facebook Fan Page:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=191557&id=264793706182&ref=mf

I'm going to another comic show this weekend after my CPR class. I think I'm going to go as Black Canary for that show and wear the corset and not the body suit. I'll also add a black ribbon on my neck and the jacket of course.

My personal life is incredibly hectic right now. My brother is in the hospital, work is stressing me out (that's what happens when you work for a greedy corporation instead of a school district) and I had a falling out with a "friend" who was more than a friend and who was abusive on so many levels. I don't understand why I stick with certain people and do so much for them just so they can treat me like shit. This guy, let's call him Spike, was seriously lucky I ever entered his life and all I ever tried to do was help him. I sacraficed so much. There were times he was a doll and we had fun but then he would snap and was just cruel, controlling, manipulative, used me, did things on purpose to hurt me and put me down. This coming from someone who is broke, a high school drop out, up until recently was unemployeed, still lives at home with daddy and the only thing he has going for him is his looks (which will eventually fade). Why did I waste my time? Guess I felt like he needed me and I could help him but in the end I was abused in ways I don't even want to say publically. This is what happens when I care about someone; I end up getting hurt. Tired of this.

I may have to see a shrink or something. I thought what my ex did to me several years ago was bad, but this feels worse. I know I'm better off not talking or dealing with Spike anymore (going on 5 days now) but all of that hurt is still there...and it sucks when you live right upstairs from him.

This made me happy; seeing Jorge Garcia on the new Weezer album. I <3 him.