CosFeature #3: Keena Monteclaro

I started out as a con-goer back then. It mattered so much to me how accurate and realistic one person can go to look exactly like the character they are cosplaying. So I’d like to take this opportunity to feature some of my favorite Cosplayers, whom I’ve had such honor in meeting and befriending along the way.. -katz

CosFeature n#3: Keena Monteclaro.. aka Kynkyn

K- Konnichiwa! Whoa that glare is really melting me haha! Thank you so much for squeezing some time for this.

KM – Oh no, thank you, for choosing me for your interview ^^

K- Alright then. Let us start from the beginning, shall we? Your interest in cosplay, how and when did it start?

KM- It started from curiosity. I happen to pass by an event in 2002 and saw people in costumes. I did some research when I found out the term in a forum. And from there, everything started.

K- Tell me, did you make your first costume back then? Or you had it tailored?

KM- My first costume, Rinoa Heartilly, was tailored but I made sure that I would make my own props.

K- Truly a beautiful cosplay! *spazz* Do you prefer solo or group cosplays then?

KM- I prefer group cosplays. I started as a solo cosplayer before and the only thing I’m focused on was accomplishing the costume and be able to portray characters well. Group cosplay is much enjoyable because you get to help each other in every details in Cosplay (not only in costumes, but also make-up, preparations for shoots and if you’re competing, you practice together).

K – Those group cosplays really leave me speechless! How you organize such a band inspires me so much too! Not only you pick suitable partners for the right characters, but truly they enjoy being in your company as well. How much has cosplay taught you then? Pros and Cons?

KM- PROS: creativity, resourcefulness and well, perfection. I learned to be sort of OC when preparing costumes (but of course 100% accuracy isn’t possible). I learned a lot in craftsmaking and wig styling via research, self-taught, observation and from people who are willing to show me how they make their costumes. It excites me when I’m in the mood to work on details too because I take those as challenge (although there are times I easily get frustrated ^^;). Teamwork is also a must, especially if you’re having a cosplay project with your friends. CONS: I pay too much attention in this hobby to the point I sometimes prioritize this over some much more important things.

K – Have you cosplayed abroad as well? If yes, how can you compare it locally? If not, what could you have wished for?

KM- Yep. Cosplay in Singapore are really awesome. Even the simplest characters they were able to pull it off nicely by portrayal, make-up and on-cam poses. People there know how to approach you and ask photos of you. There are also people who do that here as well, but there are some who takes that opportunity from other people take their shot and walk away. I got used to it anyway but it’s sad that they haven’t changed.
Cosplay aside, what do you do outside the hobby/community? (what do u do when ur not cosplaying)reply) I’m working full-time ^^; and it’s really stressful just to go to work and back home since I live far.

Let’s not forget her AWESOME crossplays! This alone, is why I want to do crossplays this year haha!

Tsuna of Katekyo Hitman Reborn!

Zidane Tribal of Final Fantasy IX

Sora of Kingdom Hearts

Allen Walker of D. Gray Man

K- Gahhh! *fangirl mode off* Hookay, now based on your experience, how’s about a message to aspiring cosplayers out there?

RESEARCH. It is an important factor you’ll need to do when you Cosplay. You want to cosplay a character, good, you just made a choice then research follows next. Research can widen your knowledge about the character, the things you’ll need for it, and whole a lot more. Research brings wonderful discovery, I assure you that and it’s fun gaining knowledge. XD

Yosh! That certainly got my juices flowing! But just like Ms. Monteclaro’s passion for group shots, it is equally amazing when she stands alone too. Wahh those facial expressions are to die for!! haha many thanks again Kynkyn, you have made my day!

Namie Amuro – Teen Queen of JPOP/Hip-hop music

Till next feature~! *mhew*

Wig tutorial #1: Single High Ponytail

Ok first of all, I’m not an expert on wig styling nor has anyone taught me about this. I actually just saw a reference picture of how the wig looks like when it was done (not during the process of styling) and I just tried it for myself. So here goes:

Wig Tutorial #1: How to do a single high ponytail – the natural way?

We will work of Terra Brandford’s wig. Because I needed to learn how other cosplayers got their ponytails that high haha! Naturally, many professionals would tell you to wear a short wig first and clip-on a ponytail extension.

This, of course, looks a lot better right? But only if you’re in a hurry or want to make it look neat. Plus, that’s two wigs, it could cost you. I chose to do it the natural way, because I assure you, it is POSSIBLE. So let’s start!

Materials you need:

1 long wig (take note to get a wig that’s TWICE the length of the actual ponytail you’re trying to achieve)

1 Wig comb or any teethy comb (do not use normal hair brush, there is a specialized Wig brush for wigs too)

1 medium sized Hair Clamp (those finger-like hair things) or lots of hair anti-aging elastics (or what I like to call, Sanrios)

And a wig head! Or get a friend or family member to wear the wig for you because you can’t do this alone.

STEP 1 = COMB YOUR WIG FIRST. If it’s naturally curly, then no need.

STEP 2 = Wear/Place the wig on your Wig Head. If your wig has those adjustable straps underneath, make sure to fasten it. If not, use a bobby pin to fasten the wig on the top of the wig head. WARNING: Do not use pins if using an actual human head! *shoots you*

STEP 3 = Take 1/4 of the wig’s upper part (doing this equally with your comb) and fasten it with a Sanrio or a hair elastic band. The height depends where you want your high ponytail to be and this is how high I want my wig to reach.Oh look! You can see the wig’s skeletal frame from here! TIP: If you have any, always look at your character reference to be sure.

STEP 4 = Using your comb, take some parts of hair from either side, about 2 inches thick. Make sure they are no tangles!

STEP 5 = Pull that part gently towards the opposite end, OVER the tied-half of the wig. Using the hair clamp, fasten this. Repeat the same step for the other side. TIP: If you started with the RIGHT side, next do the LEFT side. And vice-versa.

STEP 6 = If you have been paying attention, this (below) is what it should look like from the side. You’ll notice how we have covered the skeletal wig frame I mentioned earlier! Make sure the hair clamp holds what you have gathered.

STEP 7 = Again, keep repeating Step#5 for each side, GOING VICE-VERSA until you have reached the bottom part of the wig. This (below) is how it should look like by now, from behind. TIP: Using your comb before gathering some hair parts keep the style neat & tangle-free. So don’t be in a hurry using your fingers.

STEP 8 = By now, the wig would feel a little bit heavy because the weight is all on top. Once you’ve accomplished gathering all the hair to the top, hold the ponytail with one free hand and gently take off the hair clamp with the other hand.

STEP 9 = If your character has a specific hair accessory, you can use this time to put it now on the ponytail. Like Terra’s hair, she has this pink/lilac head-dress with tassels. But all I can put is something similar (find below). If none, replace the hair clamp with any normal hair elastic band (not the Sanrio) or ribbon. TIP: Be patient when tying the wig! It takes all energy to pull the whole ponytail back & forth, like tying real hair. Like real hair, some stubborn strands will get in the way.

STEP 10 = Owarimashita! Meaning, it is done.. You have your high ponytail. YAY!

This is the finished wig-style! I cosplayed Terra Branford from Final Fantasy VI. Her hair has always been a challenge to me because it’s not your regular ponytail. TIP: You can do the same for braids!! Check out what I did to my friend’s Bulma cosplay of Dragon Ball Series. She just added Bulma’s traditional red ribbon at the back:

I hope it was easy enough. Try it on your wig and send me a link here. I look forward to seeing your piece! Gambatte ne!

Next Wig Tutorial: Two high ponytails~ soon!

SEE ALSO: DeviantArt Version

CosFeature #2: Marko Villaluz

“I believe a photograph is worth a thousand words. What makes it more worth is when you have captured an amazing photo! A cosplayer’s existence is exposed thanks to their respective photographers.. or those who have exposed them. That’s why for my next feature, it won’t only be a cosplayer.. but the person behind the camera as well.” – katz

Feature n#2: Marko Villaluz.. aka Master Asia

K- Konnichiwa! Thank you so much for squeezing some time for me.

MV- It’s no problem at all 😀

K-  Whee let us start from the beginning, shall we? Your interest in photography, when did it start?

MV- It started when I joined the sesame photo workshop back when I was around 7. It was more like me loving to look at pictures than taking them.

K- Whoa you started that young huh? Photographer MUST-HAVES, what do you think one should be equipped with?

MV- Well, a camera~ XDD kidding aside.. other equipment aren’t really a necessity, but they do help a lot in so many ways!

K- Haha yes of course! Then, do you prefer working solo or do you participate in groups?

MV- With all honesty, I prefer working solo because I can think more but I participate in groups because it’s much more fun and a whole lot more interesting.

K- What can you say is your specialty? If none, what do you love most about taking pictures?

MV- I’ve yet to find out my nitch, but I’ve been having favoritism for portraiture.

K- Indeed. I’ve seen your other works, you could very well go into photojournalism too! Now, the Pros and Cons of Photography..

MV- It’s fun and it’s a good outlet for creativity. Bad side would be the cost. It’s not a cheap hobby, that’s for sure.

K- Oh I know. I have a brother who spent a lot on just the lens! How did you get involved with Cosplay Photography then?

MV- I started cosplay photography back in seifukuu of 2009. I just purchased my own camera that time and wanted to see if i could produce good shots with the little knowledge I had in the field.

K- Wow! I guess the same can be said for Toy Photogrpahy as well. You have tried to cosplay right? Who was your first character? And how did it feel?

MV- Yes~ my first character was Shozo from Rurouni Kenshin back in 2001. It felt good~ the cheers, and the fact that you get to see all sorts of costumes.

haha true that! Unfortunately, due to lack of sources Mr. Villaruz and I were not able to find that Shozo pic. Instead, he did some awesome cosplays as well. Check it out:

Harima Kenji of School Rumble

Jecht of Final Fantasy X

Oda Nobunaga of Sengoku Basara

Prince Dastan of Prince of Persia: Sands of Time

K- Pictures aside, what other things you would like to do for yourself off the camera?

MV- Singing, dancing, training, and playing video games

K- Haha really? Based on your experience, how’s about a message to aspiring photographers out there?

MV- It’s about learning and having fun. it’s something you can do alone and still enjoy. it’s never a bad thing to try out something new.

K- Now, please tell me something about yourself that no one knows. Like, what makes you.. YOU?

MV- hmmmmm…. here’s a toughie…. *scratches chin* I like watching kung-fu movies.

No wonder they called you Master Asia hehe! Mr. Villaluz amazes me with his simple cosplays and yet they almost always look so convincing! I feel like watching his characters off from the TV/ PC monitor! Now I’m thrilled to see him on more diverse cosplays such as mecha and armor. Catch more from Mr. Villaluz on his DeviantArt and Facebook~!

Till next feature~! *MHEW*