A few decades ago, cosplay was rare and probably unheard of by most. But it is quickly growing into a beloved hobby with a strong fanbase and community. There’s a lot that goes into the hobby. It involves finding the right cosplay costume, learning as much as possible about a character and their world, preparing for photoshoots, and meeting up with other cosplayers. While it may seem strange to some, cosplay is an incredible hobby. Here are some reasons to get into it.
1. It’s Fun.
Cosplay is an opportunity for people to let out their inner child. When people of the same mind meet, they can have a great time. Not only are their cosplay costumes a sight to see, they generally have the energy and free-spirited vibes to match.
2. Socializing.
Cosplay lovers have a subculture and a community that understands it. There is so much power when cosplay fans interact and talk about some of their favorite movies, TV shows, or comic book characters. Even when they meet up in different towns for conventions, meetings are seldom awkward, and even people new to the hobby can fit right in.
3. Escapism.
Another unique aspect of cosplay is that people can pretend to be another person. Many people have incredible memories of how they would be princesses, knights, or any other character as children—being able to do so as an adult is a lot of fun. A person can be a hero, a villain, a protagonist, or an antagonist in real life. It can be an enjoyable hobby for an introverted or shy person who has trouble interacting with others. Cosplay can also be an excellent way for a person to emulate characteristics or personalities that they like or even aspire to have. It can allow a person to exist in a different reality or world. People can temporarily forget their everyday problems and live in a fantasy world of happiness.
4. Creativity.
More than anything, cosplay is an art form, especially for people who actively design or make costumes. It can be an opportunity to mimic not only the actual characters but also a way to create something new by adding some pieces of individual creativity. Cosplay is a way for people to get their creative juices flowing to reimagine themselves and some of their favorite characters.
5. Learning Opportunities.
There’s a lot that people can gather by watching a TV show or reading comic books, but there is so much that a person can learn through interacting with other fans. Cosplay communities are often full of nerds that know intricate details about the characters, their worlds, and their personalities. Designers can learn a lot about the different materials, and stylists may discover how clothing, makeup, and accessories all fit together. It can be an excellent experience for beginners to learn.
While cosplay can seem like a geeky hobby, it is an incredible experience for the right people. It has numerous benefits for those who love it and can be a unique experience for people who are getting into it.
