Sourcing references and research

When you are making a cosplay it is important to know what you are doing. Although when you look at costumes it may appear to be a few meters of fabric driven through a machine but in reality watching what you do can make a difference.

While it may be tempting to make costumes completely by memory it wont always be the most reliable of things. It is not until you spend ages looking at the many images and stills that you realise that there are these added details that are easy to overlook.

Concept art
Official illustrations, character sheets, models and storyboard all fall into concept art. Character sheets are the most basic of references you will use if they are available. Although some of them will only provide a front view, many will also show a back view and a side view.

They are designed to give the animators a clear view of the designs of the characters, providing clear details of parts of the costumes that may be overlooked or often covered..

Screenshots
These are stills of the character from the source itself, whether it is CGI from a game or a fight scene in an anime. Although some details may be missing at times they are particularly useful for textures.

By using the PrtSc button and using any video programme or website on your computer you can make your own stills.

It is also a good idea to go onto Google and make some collages on Paint or Photoshop. Get as many angles as possible

Figurines

They offer a full view of the character design, just like a 3D model. You can buy these online, at geeky shops and at conventions. They have more uses that to be just kept on your shelf! 

Fanart

Although not always reliable as some people like to add their own flair into the design, some fanart may help and would even give you inspiration for photoshoots.

Sketch em up!

You may even want to make some concept sketches for yourself if it helps. Some parts of the costume might be difficult to capture so doing your own may help them make sense to you.

Other cosplayers

You would not believe how often I do this. This works well for deciding on the textures, materials, colours...ect. This is your chance to observe what you think works well and how some things could be improved. Some cosplay websites allow the cosplayer to describe the costume in detail so dont be afraid to read up how people do things. If you need to feel free to make a post on a forum to ask for help. Cosplayisland.com, WorldCosplay, CureCos, Deviantart and Tumblr are among my favorite places for my own research!