Cosplayer Interview: Devian Grey

Welcome to another session of Cosplayer Interview. This week, we have the pleasure of talking with Devian Grey.

Sometimes we get introduced to other cosplayers through friends. This is pretty much how this interview came about (with a bit of pressure I am guessing too - thanks Katz). We don't have the chance to interview many male cosplayers, so it was a nice change of pace.

What was especially cool about this interview, was that he also does some crossplay. I think it takes a bit of daring to do this as some people may not appreciate it. Crossplay isn't for everyone, but as you can see, it works for Devian very well. I though that he did a great job and am happy to share this with you as well.

Time for me to stop jawing and get to the interview.

What is your name, where do you reside and what is your age?

Everybody calls me Ian. My cosplay name is Devian Grey ^^
I live in Manila, Philippines
I’m 24 y/o

What first started you on the road to cosplay?

I always liked dressing up. I started going to events in Japanese fashion, then curiosity came in, During those times there are still a few cosplayers around. I thought of giving it a try with my friends. And I’ve been cosplaying since 2008. I wasn’t that well aware of the whole cosplaying stuff yet like makeup and costume making. I then learned along the way, Now I am proud to be sewing my own costumes and doing my own makeup. It takes time to learn and it takes interest to improve.

How do you choose which characters you will Cosplay?

Most of the time I loved that character. I choose my characters on how I relate to it or how strong his character is to the series. Then appearance and resources comes next. If i would cosplay all the characters I love, I’d be broke right now - LOL. My usual choices tend to fall on the leader-type, tall seme character or the bishie sexy one haha.

We have seen crossplay done by the ladies, but not too many by guys. What made you want to try crossover characters like Panty (Boxer)? Did you get picked on for doing that type of cosplay?

Oh I loved Panty!

I loved the whole show! I cosplayed the genderbend version her character because it’s fun to portray. I also did a few crossplays before like Nana (nana) and Luka (Vocaloid). It was fun, I’d love to do more.

 
I saw that you did your own makeup for Prince Zuko. Can you let us know the technique you used to get that realistic effect?

Oh My Zuko make-up is my favourite part of the whole cosplay!

Though it really takes time to do it. After a few youtube tutorials and a lot of trial and errors, I think I finally figured out how to do the scars. I used children glue (non-toxic) and gradually apply them on my face while creating the texture of my face using a cosmetic spatula. The key is texturing and a lot of patience. Then apply eyeshadow for color.

Here’s a quick cosplay tip: Always do a makeup trial at home and take a photo before the actual event/photoshoot. So you could check or adjust to your aesthetics.

How is the transition from cosplayer to photographer at times? Do you want to be the one in the shot instead of the shooter?

As much as I love cosplaying, I also grew a passion to photography.

Unlike regular photo shoots, the model just wears the clothes and poses. Cosplay photography is quite different, There is a story, a character, a personality and a lot of factors to consider.

I like creating stories behind my camera lens through my photographs. Even though I have a few photos that landed already on cosplay photo books I still consider myself a beginner, As I continue to learn along the way.

When not cosplaying, what do you do?

I am a freelance fashion stylist and photographer. I also accept costume commissions and an online entrepreneur.

For any aspiring cosplayers a little shy, what words of wisdom do you have for them to get started?

Do cosplay for the love anime, dressing up and for fun. Don’t cosplay for attention and fame. 

You are so in the the wrong community of you do, try Hollywood perhaps? Do strive to learn and improve for yourself and don’t fall out from criticism and disappointment. Rather redirect those feeling of failure to a motivating factor to create better cosplays in the future. Make friends and help each other. And lastly Enjoy!

Where can we catch more of your Cosplay at?

My cosplays are on the following sites

deviantART  |  Facebook  |  WorldCosplay  |  Cure  |  Blog  |  Twitter

Here is a Shout Out to our Photographers: 

Happy-Hario  |  z3LLLL  |  jamframephotography  |  Vesty Piedad  |  circleswontbreak  |  shimekops  |  LeNekoLightplay  |  theorem-of-thirds  |  eLLeDejaVu  |  crossfireblitz  |  Hexlord  |  Chippy  |   Franz Gatchalian

  More Cosplay Photos

 

 

 

 

 

 

I want to thank Devian Grey for taking the time to write to me and to the Photographers for the great photos that you get to see here today.

Want to be my next interviewed COSPLAY STAR? Drop me a line a bluedrakon (at) gmail (dot) com!