If you plan to accurately cosplay a character, making sure that you have images of all of the details of what they wear and look like are very important.
Image Types
When you gather reference images, you want to focus on gathering a few types.
Image Types
When you gather reference images, you want to focus on gathering a few types.
- Full body shots
- Half body close ups
- Super close up detail shots
- Full facial close ups
- Shots from the side and back
Oftentimes, you may be able to find several of these types of shots on one page of a manga, as seen in Figure 1 below.
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| Figure 1 - This page of the manga gives a nice half body and close up image on one page.1 |
Gathering all of these different types of shots will come into play with choosing proper patterns, choosing fabrics, choosing and styling wigs, and even makeup application.
Where to Gather Reference Images
One of the best places to start is Google's image section. Usually, a search of the character's name plus the show's name will turn up some good results.
Tip: If you find a great image using Google, but it is too small, choose the "more sizes" option on the right sidebar to see if a larger version of that image exists online.
If you own the DVDs for the anime or own the manga that you plan to cosplay from, they can be valuable resources. Mark pages in the manga that have the types of shots mentioned above and take screen captures of the anime if you can access it on your computer. Some anime even have art or concept art books that can be invaluable resources.
Using References
When looking at reference images, it may be a good idea to go through and jot down the important details about the character.
Why References are Important
As the previous example mentioned, without proper references you may miss out on details of a character. The little details are what show that you really care about your costume and will be what makes it stand out from the crowd.
Resources
Where to Gather Reference Images
One of the best places to start is Google's image section. Usually, a search of the character's name plus the show's name will turn up some good results.
Tip: If you find a great image using Google, but it is too small, choose the "more sizes" option on the right sidebar to see if a larger version of that image exists online.
If you own the DVDs for the anime or own the manga that you plan to cosplay from, they can be valuable resources. Mark pages in the manga that have the types of shots mentioned above and take screen captures of the anime if you can access it on your computer. Some anime even have art or concept art books that can be invaluable resources.
Using References
When looking at reference images, it may be a good idea to go through and jot down the important details about the character.
Why References are Important
As the previous example mentioned, without proper references you may miss out on details of a character. The little details are what show that you really care about your costume and will be what makes it stand out from the crowd.
Resources
- Hatori, B., Leach, G., & Yagi, K. (2005). Ouran High School Host Club (Shojo Beat Manga ed.). San Francisco, CA: Viz Media, LLC.
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