Who doesn’t love cosplay? The chance to become one of your favorite characters through sewing needles, glue, fabric, and various other crafting materials, constructing a new piece for a series you love is something all fans of this art enjoy doing. Those who devote themselves to this particular craft continually have a genuine excitement for it, and always have their own unique take to each of the characters they choose to become. Long-time cosplayers Lorentz Law and Stephanie Te are two of these kinds of individuals, and with their passion and drive combined, it’s no wonder they’re beginning to make a name for themselves in the cosplay community.
Sitting down with them for an opportune moment at this year’s Fanime 2018, I was able to learn more about these rising talents whose passion for the craft was both obvious and unmitigated.
Let’s get right to it then. How long have you been cosplaying?
L: Since 2009, so for nine years.
S: I’ve been cosplaying since 2007, so for 11 years.
What attracts you to cosplay?
L: I specifically like crafting as a medium. It’s a great way to show appreciation for an anime or character while showing-off your crafting abilities with the community.
S: The freedom to express yourself creatively. It’s inspiring, and it brings people together. There’s a freedom with it that allows you to do whatever you want. It’s unifying.
What would you say is your reason for cosplaying?
L: It allows me to be a ro-model. I want to have traits that inspire others.
S: It actually all started because I wanted to fight for and show others that anything is possible. Cosplays inspires creativity, and that’s what I want to do.
Is this profession something you see yourself doing in 10 years?
L: Absolutely.
S: Yes.
That’s awesome. How about for outfits? Always homemade cosplay, or commission too?
L: In the beginning, always homemade only. Now though, I outsource for things too, like (pre-styled) wigs.
S: For me, in the beginning, my friends made my outfits for me, but then I learned how to make them myself. Now, I make my own and share how I make them (through my Patreon).
Currently, what is your favorite cosplay?
L: Bakugou (hero version) from My Hero Academia.
S: Tifa Lockheart from Final Fantasy VII.
If you could cosplay as a professional guest anywhere in the world, where would it be?
L: Anywhere.
S: Anywhere! It would be great to see everyone’s passion! Maybe the Philippines though? Lorentz wants to go there.
L: Yeah. That would be cool.
What was your first ever convention?
L: Anime Expo ’06! Back when the convention took place at the Anaheim Convention Center.
S: Anime on Display back in 2006.
What was your first cosplay?
L: Zack Fair (from Final Fantasy VII).
S: I have two firsts. I was Konan from Naruto Shippuden, but my friend made the outfit for me. The first cosplay I did myself was Trucy Wright from Ace Attorney: Apollo Justice.
What is cosplay to you?
L: To me, it’s a space for community. I see it as a medium to express our creativity in that space.
S: It’s an outlet to let you express yourself creatively. It allows us to express affection for the characters we choose to be.
What would you say goes into cosplaying?
L: Creativity, passion, inspiration, and community.
S: Exactly. Creativity and passion are very important in doing what you do in cosplay.
I couldn’t agree more. Who would you say is your favorite cosplayer?
L: No one in general, but I tend to look at and enjoy the craftsmanship of other cosplayers. I appreciate their art form, and how they don’t lose their originality in their works. I guess I do have a ro-model though. His name is Phil Muzuno. He’s a Canadian cosplayer like Hikarin.
S: When it comes to crafting, it’s Kamui Cosplay. For sowing, it’s December Wynn.
What advice would you give to those trying to do cosplaying as a profession?
L: Definitely have passion. There is a lot of work involved, so that passion you have for it is what gives you the drive to keep going. Remember that passion stems from the “why”. Why do you want to cosplay? Follow your heart and understand yourself.
S: Believe in yourself, don’t give up, and keep at it. You need passion for doing this. If you cosplay, do it for yourself.
Any tips or tricks you want to give your fans?
L: Go to my YouTube channel. If you want to make something like Bakugou’s gauntlets, I walk through the entire process step-by-step.
S: Google is your best friend. The internet is your greatest resource. Also, when you make something, write down details and take pictures for each step.
Who’s your favorite voice actor?
L: The Japanese voice actor for Snake from Metal Gear Solid, Akio Otsuka.
S: Christian Bale when he voices Howl from Howl’s Moving Castle. The voice, not the person.
Any future projects you can share?
L: Deku from the newest season of My Hero Academia.
S: Gender-bend version of Endeavor from My Hero Academia, Riza Hawkeye from Fullmetal Alchemist, and Adiane from Gurren Lagann.
Do you have any recommended exercises for those who want to be cosplay-ready?
L: I have a video on my YouTube channel that helps with upper body training.
S: I recommend watching YouTuber, Hunky Bananas. There are workout tips there for girls!
Any make-up tips?
L: I generally use BB cream because there’s hydration in it, and an eyeshadow palette. I use the palette to fill in eyebrows, and if I need to, I use eye liner too. Cloud is so extra.
S: I’m actually writing a book on make-up. I recommend YouTube because it’s your best friend. Also check Reddit, because there are resources there you can find and use for your character. Remember that it’s trial and error. Samples are your best friend too. I recently switched over to Kat Von D’s liquid eyeliner, and I’m a slave to ColourPop. If you’ve never heard of it, please visit their website. Eye shadows are only $5, lipstick is $7, and it’s cruelty free! It is great for cosplay.
How about wig-styling tips?
L: Oh, boy. Well, I use Got2Be glued hairspray, a blow-dryer, a steamer, some scissors, and a ceramic hair straightener.
S: For long, straight wigs, use the anti-frizz n’ shine serum by Mane n’ Tail. I’ve had my Tifa wig for years now, and this spray has helped it last and stay in great condition! I use a ceramic hair straightener like he does too.
Are there any tips you have for posing?
L: Practice in front of the mirror a lot.
S: Look-up the character and their poses. Also, look up other cosplayers and see how they posed.
Last parting words to your fans?
L: I love you guys! Thank you for consuming my content. I’m always busy, and I can’t meet you all, but don’t give up, and please come say hi!
S: Whatever you’re going through in life, you’re not alone. I support you in everything you want to achieve. Everything is a community effort. Thank you for the time you spend on me– I appreciate you all!
Now that you know more about them, why don’t you follow them on their social media? Lorentz can be found on either his Twitter or Instagram, and Stephanie can also be found on either her Twitter or Instagram. With so much knowledge and expertise under their belts, why not follow them on both social media platforms and learn a few tips and tricks to get you started on your own cosplay journey? (Did I mention they do meet-and-greets with fans at conventions? No? Well, I did now. See if they’ll be at your next con and view their talents firsthand for yourself!)
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