MyGeekery

Pre-con interview: Veron

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 13:58:00 +0000

For our final interview before the TBCC starts (who's ready?!), we're featuring Veron, a cosplayer, model, artist, and all-around talented gal (take one look at her 8 and 1 cosplay meme, and you'll see what I mean) with an eclectic portfolio to blow your mind.

Photography by David Love Photography

C: What's your favorite/least favorite part of making a new cosplay?

Photography by Haute Cosplay

V: I love planning out designs, and figuring out how to make things work. At the same time, I hate sewing about 75% of the time. I love wearing a new cosplay out for the first time, and I love when a random idea seems to come out well. On the flipside, it can be very stressful to have to remake something several times because I just can't seem to get it right. I love working on small details, but sometimes a costume can initially be very overwhelming. In the end, all the hard work is worth it and so I just keep doing it.

C: What would you tell someone who might want to try cosplay, but is intimidated to start?

Photography by David Love

V: Start simple and have fun with it! I stared out with closet cosplays and that is a great place to start.
Pick a simple costume based on what you already own, or what you could find at a thrift store. If you have any sewing skills, finding pieces that just need to be slightly altered is a good place to start. Break down your costume components into several smaller steps and take them on one piece at a time. Don't be afraid to ask for help! There are plenty of great tutorials on youtube, as well as forums where you can ask questions or look for information.

C: What cons have you hit/will you hit this year? Any favorites? And are there any dream conventions you hope to get to one day?

V: This year I've attended Hurricon, Megacon, Florida Supercon, and soon I will be at Tampa Bay Comic Con. My favorites so far have been Megacon (Orlando) & Florida Supercon (Miami). My favorite part of any con is seeing my friends and collecting cool art. Someday, I'd love to go to Comic Con (SDCC), Dragon Con, and NYCC. Those are some big ones that seem to have a lot to offer.

Thanks, Veron!

Be sure to check out Veron on Facebook for a better look at all her cosplays!

Pre-con interview: Moderately Okay Cosplay

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 18:23:00 +0000

Continuing our cosplayer spotlights leading up to Tampa Bay Comic Con, today we have a brief interview with John of Moderately Okay Cosplay. Don't trust the name; his cosplays are fun and fantastic...especially if you're a League of Legends fan!

Photography by Chasis Photos

C: What was the first time you encountered cosplay, and what did you think of it at the time (versus how you think about it now)?

Photography by N/A Studio

J: The first time I encountered cosplay was in late 2012. There was a character from League of Legends that I wanted to dress up as, but Halloween was about 10 months or so away.

So a friend of mine at the time said, "Hey, why don't you make this costume and we'll go to a convention?"

And I'm like, "Oh, like an anime convention?" And, you know, I had never been to one before so I didn't really know what to expect, but I made my cosplay, and it was so terrible because I had no idea what I was doing. And we got to the convention, which was a few weeks after and EVERYONE was stopping me for pictures so I was really ecstatic about it, it was definitely a really good first experience.

At the time I thought it was cool that I could dress up as anything I wanted to at any point of the year and not just have it reserved for Halloween, but now I think of cosplay more as paying homage to the characters I love and actually getting to become them. I guess both are pretty good reasons to cosplay though!

C: How would you explain the convention experience to someone who has never been? What are your favorite parts, the parts you avoid, etc.?

Photography by Ace T. Cosplay & Photography

J: That's a hard question. But I think the one thing to remember is that there's something there for
everyone. You want to learn about anime/TV shows/comic books/etc? There are panels for that.

You want to buy a bunch of cool stuff? Conventions usually have awesome dealer rooms.

You want to cosplay for your first time? Awesome, do it.

I think my favorite part about cons is that, for the most part, there's very little judgment. Everyone is super open and welcoming and meeting new people is a breeze because everyone is there for the same thing, you know?

I guess the part I avoid coincides with that, and that's the people who try to start drama. It happens in any circle, so it's not like a shock that it happens, but there are a lot of people who have egos over playing dress up, which, when you put it in writing, looks just as silly as the concept of it is. But, like I said, I try to avoid it and just have a good time. Life's too short!

C: What are your current "dream" cosplays, and do you have any plans to tackle them soon? Why or why not?

J: My current dream cosplays would have to be Fierce Deity Link from Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, Gambit from Marvel's X-Men, and Red Hood/Jason Todd from DC Comics' Red Hood and the Outlaws.

I am currently in the process of making Fierce Deity Link and Red Hood, and I will be making Gambit sometime in the future. And, you know, all three are relatively simple cosplays on paper. They aren't full armor or any massive sewing or prop-making, but I think, at least for me, they're dream cosplays because they're my favorite characters, not because of how complicated they are.

So, they're my dreams because I want to do them justice, like, do the characters justice. I want to fully embody that character, not just be like "Eh, yeah I guess I tried on this, but I'm not happy with it."

I will actually be wearing Fierce Deity Link for my first time ever on Saturday of Tampa Bay Comic-Con! So I'm pretty excited for that.

Photography by Papanotzzi

Thanks, John!

Find Moderately Okay on Facebook, and keep an eye open for him at TBCC!

Pre-con interview: Leaping Lizard Cosplay

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 17:09:00 +0000

This weekend, MyGeekery is heading to Florida for our first Tampa Bay Comic Con, where we'll (hopefully!) get to meet tons of new awesome people. For those of you who can't make it, we wanted to spotlight a couple of the con's coolest cosplay guests...starting with the fantastic Liz of Leaping Lizard Cosplay. Courtney touched base with Liz last week to ask a few cosplay/con-related questions...read the result beneath the cut!

Photography by NBMA Photography

C: What's your favorite/least favorite part of making a new cosplay?

L: When first starting a new cosplay, I love gathering all of the materials. Here is the point where I'm essentially starting with a pile of nothing, knowing that at the end of it, I'm going to create something that will entertain people and pay homage to the things that I love.

My least favorite part is easily wigs. Wigs honestly bewilder me. They are this gravity defying monsters to work with, but a necessary evil for completing my look.

Photography by Short Fuse Pinups

C: What would you tell someone who might want to try cosplay, but is intimidated to start?

L: DO NOT LET ANYTHING HOLD YOU BACK! Cosplay whatever you want. (Except Hitler... Don't cosplay Hitler or any Nazi's... That's just wrong. :D)

I know a lot of people can be insecure and nervous about receiving criticism. For anyone reading this, you are a beautiful individual and please cosplay what you desire. Your physical appearance is an art form and does not limit you to choosing things. Cosplay is about becoming anyone or anything. If anyone tells you otherwise, brush it off. I do not consider the opinions of individuals I am not emotionally invested in. They don't consider mine, so what's the point in taking on someone else's negativity.

I tell everyone to do me one favor when they cosplay and that is to make sure they are having fun! If you are not having fun, you are doing it all wrong. Take a step back, breathe, and carry on.

I have to also say to someone exploring cosplay that you must understand that this community is very accepting, and it doesn’t matter if you purchase your cosplay, modify clothing, or sew it from scratch. It’s about meeting like-minded people and having fun. Just have fun, be nice, make friends, and stay positive. :D Cosplay is a community that will let you thrive in this sort of environment if you allow it. That’s why I keep coming back.

And lastly, if you’ve got any questions, then come harass me! :D I love to help anyone and everyone in this amazing hobby. If I can’t find the answer, I know I can find someone who can.

Photography by Gary Willey

C: What cons have you hit/will you hit this year? Any favorites? And are there any dream conventions you hope to get to one day?

L: Here is my lineup for the rest of this year! :D I have more that I may attend this year, but these are the confirmed ones as of right now. I regularly update my line up on my website here.

Space Coast Comic Con
Cape Canaveral, Fl
September 12-13th, 2015
Cosplay guest.

FantomFest
San Antonio, Texas
October 10th, 2015
Cosplay guest, judge, and panelist.

Fandomcon
Fort Walton Beach, Fl
November 6-8th, 2015
Cosplay guest, judge, and panelist

As far as favorite conventions go, each convention I attend has something to offer that's special. It's honestly hard to choose one. I just recently had a blast at Florida Supercon and highly recommend that everyone should attend it. :D

As for dream conventions to attend, SDCC, NYCC, Wizard World Seattle, and Pax East. I'm very excited to announce that I will be attending SDCC next year. It's been a dream convention of mine for a long time and I'm thrilled to finally be able to attend. :D My goal is to travel to more out of state conventions.

Thanks, Liz!

To follow Liz on her adventures, find her on Facebook, and check out her blog and site!

Ant-Man has arrived...and our excitement is not small scale!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 18 Jul 2015 21:24:00 +0000

I have been awaiting Ant-Man for a LONG time. I have enjoyed all the hype and unique marketing techniques deployed by Marvel, and now the time has finally arrived to see this small scale superhero on the big screen. Now, this is just my reaction to the movie, but I'll do my best to keep out any spoilers for those who haven't seen it yet.

First off, we tried something different this weekend. Instead of hitting the Midnight showing or the Friday night release we decided to see it Saturday morning at 11. I know, a little unusual, but the theater was packed!! Of course there wasn't nearly the large amount of energy in the atmosphere as a Midnight release, but people were stoked!!

Ant-Man was a very funny, action packed, superhero movie that everyone will surely enjoy! I know many people were concerned that this was going to be the first Marvel Studios film that wasn't going to hold up, but I can tell you that that simply isn't the case with Ant-Man. The movie is slightly different, more upbeat than many of the past Marvel films, but I think that is a welcomed changed of pace. Ant-Man is quite comical- which many probably expected with Paul Rudd as the star, Scott Lang.

Throughout the movie, there are numerous references to previous Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films; especially Avengers: Age of Ultron; along with a few appearances that I wasn't aware of; Peggy Carter, Howard Stark and an Avenger. This really helps to solidify Ant-Man's place in the greater MCU. I'm sure many of you already know that Ant-Man will be making an appearance in Captain America: Civil War. These appearances will definitely bridge the gap when Ant-Man makes his appearance in Captain America.

Another thing, Marvel is doing a suburb job by connecting the movies within the MCU. There were a lot of remarks and connections to past MCU films without it feeling like propaganda or marketing to get people to see their other films. The connections talked about in Ant-Man with past films just help to connect the MCU and to give us a feel of where Ant-Man is fitting into the timeline.

In closing, I think this movie was outstanding!! I can't wait to see it again!! There is nothing in this film that I would change and I can't wait to see how Scott Lang fits into the rest of the MCU when he returns in Captain America: Civil War.

Celebrate summer with 15% off!

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Mon, 06 Jul 2015 15:49:00 +0000

Summer is officially here!

To celebrate, we're running a promotion on all MyGeekery items! Save 15% on every order by using coupon code "Summer" upon checkout from now until September 30th, 2015. Go ahead - buff up your geeky wardrobe while you can!

Interview: The Sisters Mischief

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 14:15:00 +0000

We're giant fans of family cosplay here at MyGeekery...not least of all because some of our family does it!

If you've been tracking with us, especially at our conventions, you may have heard us mention The Sisters Mischief. Well, full disclosure: two of the five sisters help out around here, and have even run our booth. That said, we thought it was time to feature them. Well. Some of them; there are five, after all, and sometimes it's a little hard to tell them apart.

Read our interview with 3/5 of The Sisters Mischief - Ara, WonWon, and Yumi - below the cut!

So how did you all stumble into cosplay as a hobby?

Ara: Well, after I came home from serving in Iraq, Siffy and I had a long list of things we wanted to try, and it included going to one of these conventions we'd heard so much about. I was living in Savannah at the time, so drove to DragonCon and entered this crazy world. I think all the pictures we have from that weekend of us posing with people in costume we have on the same expression of over-the-top excitement and wonder. Who were all these people? Why were they so elaborate? Were these like professional people, or just regular people like us? Wait - could we do it? Nah, it'd be too hard. But then we started exploring online and realized that there was a whole community of people out there sharing techniques, tutorials, ideas, pictures... and we realized that with some help, we could give it go too.

What's your favorite part about going to a convention together?

WonWon: My favorite part is probably when we do a group cosplay (Jedi Disney Princesses, How to Train Your Dragon, The Avengers) and just walk around together. It's awesome bonding time and we always end up having a blast, despite the wardrobe malfunctions and discomfort. It especially makes me proud of my sisters when I see all the hard work and time they put into their costumes getting recognition. But honestly, just being together, whether we are in costume or not, or eating Schwarma on the floor in the Food Court, or sitting in on a panel makes every con I've gone to some of the most memorable times of my life!

What do you think the hardest part vs. the best part of cosplay in general is, for you?

Yumi: The hardest thing is being halfway done and realizing you can't finish it because you don't know how or don't have what you need. The best thing...just seeing the finished product and wearing it for the first time!

If you were all to divvy up parts to be made in a cosplay, who would do what?

Ara: All of us have done the various parts of a cosplay at one point or another, but each of us has strengths and weaknesses, things we really enjoy doing and the parts that we dread. For me, I enjoy the props most of all. They were the first thing I ever started on (Thor's hammer and Captain America's shield) and I was hooked. I also really enjoy leather work. Siffy is great at patterning, sewing, and figuring how to make things fit together (like armor). Wonwon is good with wigs (and real hair, she's cut all ours at one point or another!) and painting. And Yumi... well, she's still figuring out her niche. She's been learning how to sew, she helped work on her Spartan armor last year and her Malon costume this year...we'll see what happens!

How would you explain some of the unexpected ups and downs of cosplay to someone who's never tried it?

WonWon: When you put on that last piece to your costume and walk into a convention or an event, it is an extremely exciting and satisfying feeling, despite all the trial and error, the tears, and the hot glue gun scars that come along with making costumes. Cosplaying can be intimidating and hard to get motivated for, especially when you feel inexperienced or see so many other talented cosplayers out there. But I don't think people give themselves enough credit (I know I don't). As long as you are willing to devote time and a ton of patience, cosplaying can be extremely fun! It's an awesome feeling walking into a convention knowing that you gave it your all to make your costume. It's even more exciting when people give you recognition for your work or (my personal favorite) when little kids come up to you and give you hugs and ask for a picture with you.

What's been your favorite cosplay experience to date?

Ara: I'd have to say Kili at DragonCon last year - hanging out with Siffy as Fili, we had so much fun acting like dwarves. And then we went to the 70's dance party as dressed-down dwarves, and that was both fun and hilarious. Kind of like all the great times we've had as Fred and George at the Yule Ball, acting like total lunatics. I guess dancing is the common denominator there...

What cosplays are currently on your immediate to-do list?

Yumi: A Titan from Destiny, a fem!Hawkeye, and Elsa's coronation gown!

You can follow the Sisters' adventures at their Facebook page.

Design of the Week: Red on My Ledger

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 18:02:00 +0000

Meet an agent who knows what it's like to be unmade. She's got red in her ledger she's determined to wipe out, and if we were her enemies, we'd be very, very scared.

This newest design is printed on a stone grey shirt that won't shrink or fade, guaranteed to be soft and awesome.

Heroes Reborn trailer and news

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 16:04:00 +0000

After hearing whisperings about the new Heroes series for what feels like ages, it's great to finally have some solid news (and more than just that first infuriatingly hopeless trailer). In the last week, we've gotten not only a satisfying new trailer, but some character posters, and finally, a synopsis that promises the show will be as character-driven as the first.

NBC just released the following synopsis:

A year ago, a terrorist attack in Odessa, Texas, left the city decimated. Blamed for the tragic event, those with extraordinary abilities are in hiding or on the run from those with nefarious motives.

Two such vigilantes include Luke (Zachary Levi, Chuck) and Joanne (Judith Shekoni, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2), who are seeking to avenge a tragic loss.

Noah Bennet, aka HRG (Jack Coleman, reprising his role from the original), has gone off the grid but conspiracy theorist Quentin Frady (Henry Zebrowski, A to Z) finds him and opens his eyes to the truth behind the Odessa tragedy.

While in hiding, some are discovering their newfound skills. Awkward teen Tommy (Robbie Kay, Once Upon a Time) just wants to be normal and win the girl of his dreams, Emily (Gatlin Green, Criminal Minds), but normalcy is virtually impossible after learning of a new ability that terrifies him. Coming from a very sheltered upbringing, a bold and ethereal teenager, Malina (Danika Yarosh, Shameless), has been told she is destined for greatness. In Tokyo, a quiet and unique young woman, Miko (Kiki Sukezane, Death Yankee 3), is trying to track down her missing father while hiding an extraordinary secret that will make her a force to be reckoned with. Elsewhere, a different type of hero is emerging through former soldier Carlos (Ryan Guzman, The Boy Next Door).

Meanwhile, Erica (Rya Kihlstedt, Masters of Sex), the head of the highly successful tech conglomerate Renautas, has an agenda of her own.

For better or for worse, some are fated to cross paths with assorted heroes of the past, including Hiro Nakamura (Masi Oka), Matt Parkman (Greg Grunberg), Mohinder Suresh (Sendhil Ramamurthy) and the Haitian (Jimmy Jean-Louis), among others. Yet, together, their ultimate destiny is nothing less than saving the world and mankind.

What do you think? Can Heroes Reborn possibly stand up to the original series?

Design of the Week: On Your Left

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 24 Jun 2015 16:24:00 +0000

There's probably only person I'd want on my left in a fight...even if it means getting lapped trying to keep up.

Show your support for your favorite Avenger with this soft 100% pre-shrunk cotton shirt designed by our artists at MyGeekery!

We finally have our new Spiderman...and it's not who we guessed.

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Tue, 23 Jun 2015 16:51:00 +0000

It's a big day for Avengers and Marvel fans in general. It feels like plans for Spiderman have been in teeter-totter mode for months. Now, finally, we have some solid news to latch onto...and it's (hopefully) good news, at that.

As announced on Marvel's blog this morning:

Sony Pictures and Marvel Studios are proud to announce that after a full worldwide casting search, Tom Holland will play Peter Parker/Spider-Man in the next Spider-Man film, in theaters in IMAX and 3D on July 28, 2017.

There you have it! We not only have our new Spidey - Tom Holland, a relative unknown (though if Tom Hiddleston's and Chris Hemsworth's Marvel debuts say anything, he won't stay that way for long!) - but a release date, and a director: Jon Watts of upcoming thriller "Cop Cars".

What do you think? Are you relieved/excited Marvel has picked a no-name to launch to stardom, or were you holding out for Asa Butterfield?

We're getting a Boondock Saints prequel...

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Although we're being denied the chance to see Norman Reedus and Sean Patrick Flanery return as the vigilante MacManus brothers, an official TV prequel is in the oven, and with the movie's original writer-director Troy Duffy on board to pen the story...well, we're crossing our fingers that we won't be disappointed. Deadline had this interesting tidbit:

Duffy has written a first episode and a bible for the project, which traces the origins of the vigilante brothers Connor and Murphy MacManus as Irish immigrants in South Boston. A search is underway for a showrunner to join the drama, which will be taken out, eyeing a straight-to-series order.

What do you think? Will the show do the Saints justice?

Design of the Week: Jurassic Berk

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 15:47:00 +0000

We know one attraction that would be sure to lure guests to the dangerous dino park.

A certain useless reptile by the name of Toothless!

Find this soft 100% cotton tee designed by our artists only in the MyGeekery store!

Batman v. Superman synopsis

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 16:21:00 +0000

While it doesn't say anything we probably couldn't have figured out watching (rewatching, more like) the trailer, Warner Bros has given us our first official synopsis for DC's make-or-break Batman V Superman film:

Fearing the actions of a god-like Super Hero left unchecked, Gotham City’s own formidable, forceful vigilante takes on Metropolis’s most revered, modern-day savior, while the world wrestles with what sort of hero it really needs. And with Batman and Superman at war with one another, a new threat quickly arises, putting mankind in greater danger than it’s ever known before.

Released neck and neck with the news that Marvel won't be hosting a panel at SDCC, fans are naturally wondering if DC is going to step up to bat and give us some juicy tidbits about the movie that's kind of taken a backseat to Suicide Squad in recent weeks. What do you think? Will DC get their momentum back up at SDCC? Can we expect an exclusive clip?

Design of the Week: Fortunately, I am Mighty.

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 15:46:00 +0000

We've got a new motto for you.

More homework than you can possibly get done? "Fortunately, I am mighty."

Running a 5k you haven't trained enough for? "Fortunately, I am mighty."

Bad day at work dealing with grumpy people? "Fortunately, I am mighty."

This 100% cotton shirt designed by our artists is guaranteed to make you feel just a little bit mightier.

Interview: The Malice of Alice & Kelly is Nice Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 16:44:00 +0000

Chances are, you've seen at least some of the pictures below. It could have been on Telegraph, Buzzfeed, or Bored Panda, to name just a few; Alice and her mom Kelly's beautiful creations make an unforgettable impression. While Alice brings the modeling and the acting (one look at her portfolio of chameleon expressions and you just know she's going places), Kelly brings her camera and her eye for the the beautiful, the whimsical, the soft and then sometimes dark. They're a powerful team, but you know what my favorite part is? Their art - Alice's cosplay and Kelly's photography - is how they spend time together.

If you don't know their family's whole story, check it out here. Then read on below the cut for our interview with Alice and Kelly!

C: We've read some of your family's story on your blog, but what was the first photoshoot you and Alice bonded over, and how did it come about?

Alice as Edward Scissorhands

K: The first planned cosplay was Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz. Two weeks after she moved in with us we passed a dress while shopping, and Alice commented on how it looked like a Dorothy dress. I suggested that we do a photo shoot, and she was totally up for it. It was the first time she'd really posed for my camera as a model, and it was amazing. She immediately got into character and threw off little poses left and right without having to be prompted. She didn't care that it was cold or super windy. She just became Dorothy.

C: How do you approach planning your next project? Do you two have a list of favorite characters you look forward to recreating, or do you just dive in as the inspiration hits you?

K: It's definitely a little of both. The Carrie cosplay was very impromptu. We were bored one evening and Alice asked me to take her picture. We already had fake blood and a tiara so we put it to use. Other shoots, like Joan of Arc, took a lot of planning. We spent weeks researching her history and handcrafting the costume and props. Alice read a book about her and we watched a couple of movies for inspiration. We wanted to cover her story from start to finish and accurately portray her as best we could. It was shot over several days and locations and was a lot of work but it's definitely one of my favorites. Joan of Arc is one of the most incredible women I've ever heard of. She was brave and touch not afraid to challenge the role that was expected of women. I see a lot of that in Alice and I wanted her to know that it's ok to be strong and be a girl.

Joan of Arc

C: Alice, if you two could take pictures as any character anywhere in the world, who and where would you pick?

A: I would love to be a zombie mermaid (like Ariel but zombie Ariel) and take pictures at night in a water tank.

C: Is modeling/acting something you would like to keep doing as you get older?

A: Yes! I want to be an actress like Chloe Grace Moretz and I want to be on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. I really want to be on the cover of a magazine.

C: Kelly, we noticed from your blog that you do more "normal" photography too - family and senior portraits, etc. Do you like one type of shooting more than another?

Alice in Wonderland

K: Creative portraits are definitely my specialty and I'm fortunate that I have clients that let me dress them up and get a little adventurous with their family/senior/engagement shoots. I've had a lot more clients step out of the box after seeing the portraits Alice and I make. Most little kids play dress-up and make believe. What we're doing isn't anything new, it's just documented.

C: Do either of you have any tips for someone who wants to a model, but has trouble being comfortable in front of a camera? How do you, Alice, get into character, and how do you, Kelly, help direct her?

A: I think of myself like I'm the one acting in the movie and I do what the character does.

K: I don't direct her much on poses but I do help her understand what the character is feeling or trying to express. Once she understands the character she's really good at acting out their personality. From there, it's just little tweaks on her poses to frame the shot.

Wonder Woman

If I'd had room, I honestly could have shared all of Kelly's and Alice's creations - they're that beautiful. So be sure to check out this full list of ways you can follow them on their adventures:

Alice: website | facebook | instagram | twitter | tumblr

Kelly: website | facebook | instagram | twitter | tumblr

To boldly go...to Changle, China.

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 03 Jun 2015 16:14:00 +0000

Just the other day, a couple of us at MyGeekery were talking about how sad/frustrated we get thinking about millionaires who spend their money on golf clubs and nice cars. Nice cars are all well and good, but...why not make it a DeLorean? Or a Batmobile? And golf clubs? Wouldn't you rather have a life-size Hulkbuster?

The Wall Street Journal

So we rejoice in reporting on this piece of architectural glory built in China's Changle by game-developer NetDragon Websoft. You recognize what this 6 story, $100 million dollar building is, don't you? I'll give you a hint.

It's the USS Enterprise.

"The interior features other Star Trek-inspired elements, including automatic sliding gates between the different working areas. There are also 30-foot metal slides on the third floor that allow quick access to the ground level, and a replica of a Tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur nicknamed Stan (after the palaeontologist who discovered parts of its skeleton in South Dakota in 1987)." via Telegraph

Not convinced it's the real deal? Here's a shot of it from Google Earth.

Design of the Week: Sunnydale High School

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Tue, 02 Jun 2015 19:52:00 +0000

Show your school pride...for Sunnydale High School!

This vibrant gold and maroon shirt is the perfect shout-out to fellow Buffy and Whedon fans. Put it on, wear it out (to school, maybe?) and watch proudly as folks try to figure out your mascot.

All set for school apparel? How about a Sunnydale decal instead?

Interview: SoulFire Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Thu, 28 May 2015 17:24:00 +0000

What do Dragon Age: Inquisition, Tolkien, and RWBY all have in common? If you answered they're awesome, well, yes, you're technically correct. But they're also a few of the fandoms with a few of the characters Sonja of SoulFire photography has brought to life through her colorful albeit sometimes gut-wrenching work (yup, the proof's in the pudding) with cosplayers of all genres. Below the cut you'll read about her approach to working with cosplayers, her dream shoot, and her journey as a photographer. So check it out!

C: Can you tell us a little about your journey as a photographer? Where did you start, and how do you feel you've changed the most?

S: I actually started really getting in to photography in high school - I would take my friends’ cameras when we were at Regattas and take photos for the crew team (I didn’t have a camera back then, so I’d use other peoples’ and get to play with the photos), and once I got in to college, I ended up spending time photographing plants and the campus. It wasn’t until 2008 that I really started working with people. I did a few group shoots for gatherings, and people really liked those photos and started contacting me for private shoots. It super surreal, but everyone was so patient with me! I learned a lot that year.

It’s a little difficult to pinpoint where I think I’ve changed the most, really. I went back to look at
some of my older photography and I think where I’ve changed the most is my composition and overall feel-of-direction for the shoot. It was a little painful to look at photos even from two years ago, it’s like any improvements I’ve made aren’t gradual, they’re giant leaps in certain directions. I almost wish it had been a little more gradual so I could be of more help to people!

C: Do you have a favorite fandom (or two, or three) to shoot cosplays from?

S: Oh man, I absolutely love working in a few certain fandoms, and will drop everything for those series.

Bioware - I tend to group both Dragon Age and Mass Effect in to one giant group because Bioware owns my soul, and I love both of them equally. I’ve met some of my closest friends through our shared appreciation of Bioware games.

RWBY - the RWBY fandom is my baby, they are all so supportive and amazing. It’s so phenomenal to see people supporting and celebrating the brainchild of one of my closest friends.

Tolkien - It’s difficult to find Tolkien cosplayers, but when you do, man do they know their stuff. It’s so impressive. Tolkien was a huge part of my Childhood, so I jump on the shoots when I get a chance.

Halo - Okay so this is the fourth one, but Halo is another series I have found myself so absorbed in over the past few years.

C: If the godmother of cosplay photography appeared to you with all the time, money, connections, etc. you needed to set up your dream shoot...what would it look like?

S: Holy cow. This…. is a tough one. I have been so absorbed into Dragon Age: Inquisition ever since it came out, and through Tumblr, DeviantArt, and the online groups...I have found some amazing cosplayers of the series itself, and getting them to be part of a Dragon Age shoot would be so phenomenal.

One of my favorite things to do is add ‘believable’ effects in post (biotics, magic, etc) and Dragon Age is just full of opportunities for me to do that...but what’s better, is beginning with practical effects and expounding upon them in post. So I’d need some extra lighting equipment and people that are good with fire….

If I could pinpoint the perfect locations for each location of the game, I would be so ecstatic to set up Inquisition shoots inspired by the Emerald Graves, Western Approach/Hissing Wastes, Hinterlands, Skyhold…. I actually have a tag on my tumblr solely for dream locations, and it’s looking like I would need access to some locations in Germany, Western Canada, Wales, Midwestern United States, and Iran.

It would be the Dragon Age shoot to end all Dragon Age shoots.

C: Do you have a pretty clear vision of what you want to shoot before you shoot it, or is there a lot of spontaneity involved?

It really depends on the situation. Most of the time I prefer to have a bit of time to prepare and research the series, poses, shots…. and if I want to add in extra compositing afterwards. I prefer to have a clear vision of the shots I want before I shoot it because that idea can evolve into something even better because I started with a solid foundation.

S: How do you encourage/help cosplayers who have no experience with posing get comfortable in front of the camera?

I try to set aside the time to help them relax, I talk to them about what they’re cosplaying. Why they’re cosplaying it, what they love about the series. I also tend to make playlists for the shoot, depending on the feel we’re going for. A little music will help the cosplayer relax and feel a little less self conscious and more focused on channeling whatever they want to show in the photo. (Courtney's note: I love this idea!!!)

Honestly I’ve found the most important thing to be that my model and I have a good relationship. If we’re comfortable with each other, then it will transfer in to the shots themselves.

C: Are there any trademark Sonja touches that you feel often come through in your finishes pieces? (Lens flares, a certain tone, etc.)

S: I’ve actually been asked this a few times, and I’ve had to sit back and wonder if there are any signature things that I do. It’s tough, because if you sit me down in front of a computer with a gallery of photographers work from the cosplay community, I could probably name who the photographer was by the look and feel of the image - and if I didn’t know the name, probably the country the photographer comes from.

But as per myself, I’ve never really developed a certain style - I get bored easily when I stick with similar composition and processing, even the emotional feel of the photo. If it’s all the same, or if any aspect of it is the same for a while, I get antsy and begin to wonder if I’ve stagnated in my progress.

I will say, however, that I have an affinity for darker, more emotional shoots. I’ve been known to publish photos that make people cry before. So….I guess that answer would be emotional content of the photo.

C: And lastly, what cons are you hoping to get to this year?

S: Unfortunately my bank account has taken a hit the past six months due to being unemployed, but I am definitely attending RTX in August, and I’m trying to make it out to DragonCon - and I think for early 2016, I’ll be trying for Magfest.

Thank you, Sonja!

For more of Sonja's work, check out SoulFire Photography's Facebook page and DeviantArt...or sign yourself up for lots of Dragon Age: Inquisition goodness and follow her Tumblr.

Design of the Week: The Door of Time duo

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Tue, 26 May 2015 18:08:00 +0000

Even the Doctor knows that it's dangerous to go alone!

We now have a colorful 11" x 17" ready-to-frame poster to accompany our Doctor Who/Zelda parody shirt, which features the Song of Time summoning the TARDIS from the heart of London.

Clothe your inner geek!

Interview: The Pixel Peddler

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Thu, 21 May 2015 15:13:00 +0000

One of my favorite parts of going to conventions is walking through the artist and vendor halls and seeing some of the creative ways people appreciate their geekery with their art.

For Allen, also known as The Pixel Peddler, that means taking painstaking care to arrange beads into pixelated portraits of some of fandom's most beloved characters. If you can't tell from his giant Link portrait above, his fun and colorful creations look like they jumped straight out of an old game console (just check out the shading on those boots - amazing).

Find the full interview below the cut!

C: How did you get into making your beaded pixel art?

A: I started doing conventions selling coasters and handmade jewelry with a friend of mine at the Nashville Comic Con in (I believe) 2010. Another friend sent along some stuff similar to what I make now and I was really into it. When I got home I made him tell me more about it and by the next February I was running a booth much similar to my current one.

C: How long does it take you to make a small piece, versus something bigger, like the giant Link?

A: The NES Link sprite I make takes around 7-10 minutes, a mid-size canvas piece like Majora's Mask takes about 1-2 hours, and the big Link takes me roughly 15 hours now. It used to be a lot longer but I've got it down to a science.

C: We really like how the different light values come through in the beads you pick. How do you go about planning out what goes where?

A: Eyeballing it mainly. If I'm not working from a pattern I usually line up the various shades of a certain color and go with what looks right. Because of this you'll occasionally see slightly different variations of some pieces due to me changing my mind.

C: Do you have a favorite fandom to create sprites and the like from?

A: I'll always be a Nintendo guy at heart. Specifically I love making things from Metroid. Other than that I'm working on replicating punk band logos and I'm really excited about that.

C: Do you often get requests for something you've never made before? Have you ever had any really off-the-wall ones?

A: Very often. I've had a few requests for logos from people's podcasts and fanart. Unfortunately I haven't really had any super crazy things, I keep holding out for them because I feel like they'd give me good stories.

C: What's your favorite part about taking your pieces to conventions?

A: Honestly it's the ego boost. I know this will make me sound bit full of myself but I never get tired of people complimenting my work.

C; Do you have any of your creations hanging in your house? I bet they make great conversation starters.

A: I usually keep a magnet of Samus' helmet on my fridge but that's got taken to a last minute convention. If I have a big fancy piece made when friends come by I can't help but show it off though. I did have some in the back of my car at work once and that was a huge conversation starter. I work with a ton of "country boy" types and it was fun convincing them that people would really be into that sort of thing.

C: And lastly, do you have any more cons you're hitting this year?

A: I just got through the with Cape Comic Con in Cape Girardeau, MO and am currently prepping for the Tampa Comic Con in Florida. Other than that I'm trying to weasel my way into a table for the Superman Festival in Metropolis, IL but I'm otherwise wide open.

Thanks, Allen! Visit The Pixel Peddler's Facebook page, and don't forget to check out all the interviews here at the MyGeekery blog. Remember, we're always looking for geeks of every type to interview...we want to meet you! Send as an e-mail suggesting who you'd like to see on the site!

Trailer Round-up

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 20 May 2015 15:31:00 +0000

With summer almost upon us, it's time for another round-up of new movie/TV trailers and clips!

See the rest below the cut.

Design of the Week: Fantasy Worlds Sign & wall-arts

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Mon, 18 May 2015 16:25:00 +0000

If you could go to any fantasy world...where would you go?

A fan favorite, our Fantasy Worlds Sign wall-art comes in two sizes and points the way to just a few of our favorite fandom locations. Is it missing something? Want to trade Hogwarts for Hyrule?

No problem. We'll customize it for you! Just send us an e-mail and one of our artists will be in touch.

And don't forget to check out our full range of geeky wall-arts!

Interview: Aicosu

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Thu, 14 May 2015 16:50:00 +0000

For me, getting into cosplay for the first time felt like opening a Russian nesting doll; every time I thought I'd found the end of the cosplay community and was about to step into a void on my own, I found someone out there had taken the time to make a tutorial, or already asked the questions I had, or compared eBay wigs so I wouldn't have to. Like any time you get more than one human liking the same thing each in their own way, the community has had its kerfuffles. But on the whole, I've found it to be full of fun people who are happy in their geeky skins and helpful to boot.

Sheila and Sylar of the couple cosplay team Aicosu are two such cosplayers. Their Tumblr has been an awesome resource for new and veteran cosplayers alike (Sheila is a master tutorial curator), and with over 90 cosplays in their portfolio, they've done the trial and error thing**, understand the wonder that is hot glue, and always have an encouraging word for cosplayers who might be stuck. Check out my interview with them below.

**Seriously though, it's hard to imagine the error part, because I'm pretty sure they're perfect.

C: What first attracts you to a cosplay? (The character, the costume, a love of the series, etc.)

A: Definitely the character. Whenever we are playing a game or watching a show, connecting with the character usually makes us want to create the costume. Sometimes we're attracted to the design, but it's mostly about the character's personality and how we relate to them.

Photo by Maguma

C: Do you have a favorite and least favorite medium to work with when you're building a cosplay?

A: Yes! Craft foam is usually our favorite. We're the most experienced with manipulating foam rather than thermoplastics and its really great for more than just armors. As far as our least favorite; anything to do with sewing! Sheila is still really new to the sewing process, and measuring up patterns can be really frustrating when your self taught. Something always ends up a little wonky.

C: Have you ever started a project and given up on it? Why or why not?

A: Oh sure. Sometimes a costume just defeats you. Usually we find out along the way that the process for certain costumes is above our skill level. We try to do what we can, but sometimes its better to drop the stress and come back to the project at a later date.

Photo by DEL42 Photography

C: Sylar, we've heard you often stay in character when cosplaying. Do you have any tips or tricks for people wanting to try and do the same?

A: The best way is practice. All acting and performance takes practice -- and getting comfortable and confident with yourself. Rehearsing lines, poses, and gestures before a convention is really helpful.

C: What's your favorite part of cosplaying together?

A: Every bit of the process brings us closer together. The challenges of the build, the fun of taking pictures together, sharing it with others at conventions-- it makes us spend time together and its something we share. So really, every step of the journey is our favorite part. It's really the basis of why we continue to do it.

Photo by Rin

C: The cosplay community, unfortunately, has seen its share of negativity these last few years. So what do you most enjoy/appreciate about it? How do you hope it grows or changes in the future?

A: You know, the best part of the community is that no matter the negativity, the positive attitudes outweighs it. Cosplay is still a newer hobby, with resources that rely on being shared. The outward reach of people making tutorials, sharing tips, and encouraging others to cosplay who and what they want is prevalent. We've experienced some bad negativity before, but again, it's so minor in the wake of how much support we've experienced.

Honestly though our hope for the future is that the community and the hobby grows. We're really excited to be experiencing a boom in it since Geek culture seems to have become more mainstream. It's amazing to hear people in high schools know and share interest in cosplay when, in our history, we were made fun of it.

C: What would you tell someone who wants to get into cosplay but is intimidated?

A: Start easy! Pick a character you like and start by breaking down the costume into something you can make by altering clothes. Trying shopping at thrift stores and cutting up shirts and pants to put together into an outfit. It helps you learn how clothes work, and can introduce you into making more complicated things. And remember that someone, somewhere has already made something similar to you. There are tons of free tutorials online for making everything from Han Solo pants to Sailor Moon's tiara. Take advantage of it and the minds of other cosplayers!

C: Lastly, what cons are you hoping to hit in 2015?

A: We will be attending Star Wars Celebration, Anime Expo, Dragon Con, and hopefully a few others!

Thanks, guys!

Be sure to visit Aicosu.com for Sylar and Sheila's full portfolio, or visit their Facebook page.

The wait lengthens for Sherlock series 4

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Tue, 12 May 2015 19:36:00 +0000

Sometimes it feels like if Steven Moffat isn't breaking our hearts one way, he's bound to break it with another.

Although Sherlock fans may have gotten used to the painfully long wait between new episodes (gotten used to...not enjoyed), the latest news from Moffat - that Sherlock's 4th season won't even begin filming until spring of 2016 - is hitting hard.

Whether or not the delay is due to the growing demand for Benedict and Martin remains to be seen, but an Entertainment Weekly writer was able to confirm that Martin joining the lineup for the next Captain America movie wouldn't interfere with series 4. Maybe Moffat just has something else up to his sleeve.

At least we have the Victorian Christmas special to look forward to. Fingers crossed that it's about five hours long...that would hold us over.

If I had Ant-Man's powers...

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Tue, 12 May 2015 17:37:00 +0000

...I would live in this.

The team at Titans Creations took two months and 10,000 bricks to create this work of art for Legoland Malaysia's May the 4th event, and all the hype it's getting is well-deserved. The amount of detail in this thing is incredible - it was even given the thumbs-up by a real live Master Builder.

All we can say is...SPACESHIP!