If you like cute anime boys, you will love this next cosplayer. Talented with both a makeup and hair brush, their cosplays do not disappoint. They first caught my eye with their high quality looks and enthusiasm. From the cold, cold country of Canada, here is Prince Shota.
Do you notice any differences between conventions in Canada vs the USA?
Yes! USA conventions are a lot more fun (in my own opinion). American’s seem more open and excitable about their favourite shows/video games etc. They’re not afraid to run up to you and say “your costume is so good” while jumping up and down, whilst Canadian cons, people seem more shy here. The cosplay communities are quite small in the cities, so everyone knows everyone.
What prop or cosplay has been the most difficult for you to make?
I would say Prompto Argentum! I started making that costume before “Final Fantasy XV” was released so I had absolutely nothing to go by when I needed details. I had friends help me out with the patches on the vest and pants. I think I almost went blind from staring at my screen for so long, trying to make sense of some patches (because all the pictures were low quality), I ended up making most of them up! I remade the costume twice, and the wig five times! I spent around $2,000 CAD on all the supplies over time; it hurts my wallet, but it was totally worth it!
Photo by Lost Dumplings
How did you start taking wig commissions?
I first started with making mine and my friend’s wigs because I found wig making so much fun! One of my friends suggested that I should start taking commissions, so I challenged myself and took some easy and some hard wigs for a cheap price to practice! Once I felt like I was confident enough, my friends and I started an Etsy shop!
Which do you prefer; buying or making a cosplay?
I try to go the cheaper/higher quality option. Sometimes I would buy a super cheap costume, upgrade it and add details to make it look nice, or I would just sew my own if there aren’t any nicer cheap ones or any available for that character. My sewing isn’t the greatest, so I’m practicing by making small things here and there.
Which of your cosplays is your favorite and why?
I think my favourites are Allen Walker (“D.Gray-Man”) and Mikaela Hyakuya (“Seraph of the End”). Their costumes are so nice and comfortable, and their wigs frame my face in a way that makes me look good! Another one of my favourites is Ciel Phantomhive (“Black Butler”). I have this one outfit that is so cute, I sometimes take it out of storage just to stare at it!
Photo by Hano Cosplay
How do you choose who to cosplay next?
If there’s an anime I really love, I get excited about it and say to myself “I HAVE TO BE THIS CHARACTER!” I usually choose characters with a similar body type and attitude to my own. I also do group cosplays with my friends, so if they want a character done, I’ll do it! I have so many cosplays planned for the future.
If you could cosplay with anyone in a cosplay photo shoot, who would it be?
I haven’t thought about this at all! I usually make a group with the people around me. If I had to choose anyone, I think I’d choose @pollypwnz and @shirogane_sama on Instagram! Their photographer @jackie_kyle is really good, and their cosplays are great as well! I love the emotion all three portray in their photos. I would say I’m a huge fan and I’d like to meet them one day!
Photo by Joe Jio
What is the next event we can expect to see you cosplay at?
I’m going to Katsucon! Any other con I go to is usually a last minute, spur of the moment kind of thing. I’d love to go to Anime NYC this year!
What is your advice for those just getting into cosplay?
Practice, practice, practice! And have fun, of course! A lot of people take cosplay seriously, but cosplay is the most unserious thing you could do! It’s all about having fun and enjoying yourself.
Where can we find you online?
I’m mostly on Instagram! @Princeshotacosplay
You can find me on Facebook, also! I have stopped using facebook until I give my page a makeover.
You can order wigs and prints on my Etsy shop: Prince Shota Wigs
And my email princeshotacosplay@outlook.com