Hello there, I am new to Cosplay

[size=12]Hello there. I would like to know more about Cosplay from a Cosplayer's perspective. Any of you who are one, I would like for you to tell me about it. From a beginner's standards to hardcore. Is it fun to dress as one of your favorite characters from an anime series/game?

I think I am a closet-anime fan, since I don't talk about it in school unless somebody comes up to me and have a conversation about it. Would this affect me if I ever attempt to Cosplay in the future? Would I be able to comprehend the mass groups of people who are into the things I love? [/h]

I'm kind not a closet-anime fan... I'm usually open about it, but it's not like I bring it up in conversations or tell everyone. Cosplay is very interesting, and depending on your gender and your way of thinking you can do many different things. I'm a guy, and I do not cosplay. I have worn some outfits my friends have, but that's it. My friends really enjoy, and that's why they do it. However, I just don't have much feeling for cosplay. That's why I don't do it. But I still love anime.

I see cosplaying as the ultimate way to express your feelings about your favourite show and/or games. If you like a certain character, why not be just like them? Cosplay done well is a form of art.

Whenever I go to a con I cosplay, of course. And there's this holiday in Holland where it's perfectly normal to do so as well. You need to find these special occasions where you can do it and where it's normal to do so.

So not in school on an average day since that would be a little too weird.

I usually think the entire year about what kind of characters I could try to cosplay and why. If you're not sure, just try to find somebody that really looks and acts like you. Don't start off with too complicated outfits, unless you have the money to buy it all or the expertise in sewing. Sewing your own outfits is usually cheaper, but you need the right materials as well. There's a basic law in cosplaying that says that the amount of effort you put in your cosplay will directly influence the amount of fandom you will get from it. Don't be afraid to spend a couple days more to get your outfit just right.

So good luck on cosplaying. =P

I've never actually cosplayed before, but I can tell you about it from a photographers point of view. As far as the community goes, they're all pretty down to earth people. No one will criticize you, unless you ask for it. Most to all would love to offer help/advise if asked. Most importantly, there is no such thing as a bad cosplay. If you ever go to a con, you'll find people who are happy just to be there.

As far as "hardcore" cosplaying goes, in my experience, those people are actual models who get paid to dress up and pose.

don't be afraid of who you are you hav sighed onto fakku you are in touch with your inner otaku the cosplay you choose will be an extension of yourself it be of an anime character you like and accommodates your features

I think what's harsh about cosplay is using what you look like.
I'm sorry if i sound like a complete bastard here (i'm just trying to be realistic!), but if you're tall, don't cosplay ed from full metal alchemist (i've seen it before).
If you're a fat blonde, maybe ichigo isn't one for you, even with the wig (unless you wanna dye your eyebrows).
Wigs are fine in my opinion, but if the hair is spikey, it needs to look convincing! (although this is more for hardcore cosplayers. I think people won't bug you because the wig isn't 100%).

When you get to an expo/con, you won't feel like you're in a 'closet'. Make the most of it and feel proud. Although you'll find the majority of people in normal situations to find cosplay stupid and hilarious. If you ever feel down about it, stand up and take pride. They might respect you more for that.