This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Fumiko Kriss, a professional cosplayer from Malaysia with over 8 years of experience in the community. Best known for portraying Lightning from Final Fantasy XIII and Beidou from Genshin Impact, Fumiko shares her cosplay journey and some advice for newbies who want to get into the hobby!
Disclaimer: The following interview has been mildly edited for reading clarity.
Let’s begin with a self-introduction!
Hello fellow cosplayers and enthusiasts! I’m Fumiko Kriss, a professional cosplayer with a love for bringing characters to life through costumes and creativity. With 8 years of experience in the cosplay community, I’ve honed my skills in embodying the essence of beloved characters from various fandoms.
Through my journey in cosplay, I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with fellow enthusiasts, attending conventions, and even participating in events. Each experience has enriched my love for this art form and fueled my creativity further.
How did you first begin cosplaying?
The first character I cosplayed was Inori from Guilty Crown, but I only wore her school outfit and used my hair as a wig, since I wasn’t familiar with how to use a wig back then. I was determined to color my hair pink and added red highlights to fit the character’s accuracy. That was during a Halloween party with a group of high school friends.
What has been your favourite character to cosplay so far?
For 4 years, I’ve been diving into the colorful world of cosplay, but there’s one character who holds a special place in my heart — Claire ‘Lightning’ Farron. From the moment I encountered Lightning in Final Fantasy XIII, I was captivated by her design, her characteristics, and her stories throughout the game. Cosplaying as Lightning allows me to step into her shoes and embody her essence, bringing joy not only to myself but also to fellow Final Fantasy fans.
You’ve been a part of a lot of events and projects since you started cosplaying. Which one has been your favourite so far?
My favorite event so far was being a part of GSC Popcorn Run / Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. It was truly an experience and my first time being a part of something extraordinary where I got to interact with people during the marathon while cheering them on to the finish line.
What is the first step a person should take if they want to begin cosplaying?
Embarking on the journey of cosplaying begins with choosing a character you deeply connect with from your favorite movies, TV shows, anime, or games. Dive into the character’s backstory and gather reference images to understand their unique traits and costume details. Setting a budget is essential to manage expenses for materials, wigs, and accessories.
Decide whether you’ll make the costume yourself or purchase it, considering your skill level and time constraints. If you’re crafting your own costume, start by learning basic sewing and crafting techniques, gradually expanding your skills. Attend cosplay events and conventions to showcase your creations, meet fellow enthusiasts, and draw inspiration.
Remember, cosplay is a creative expression, so have fun putting your own spin on the character and enjoy the exciting journey of bringing them to life!
What are your thoughts on the safety concerns regarding cosplaying at events?
When it comes to cosplay events, there are several safety concerns that organizers and participants should be aware of. One major concern is the potential for harassment or inappropriate behavior towards cosplayers. Unfortunately, some individuals may not respect boundaries or understand that cosplay is not consent.
Event organizers should take steps to create a safe environment, such as implementing clear harassment policies, providing security, and promoting a culture of respect among the cosplayers. Many cosplay costumes can be quite elaborate and heavy, which can lead to overheating and dehydration, especially in warm or crowded environments. Organizers should provide adequate ventilation, water stations, and cooling areas for cosplayers to rest and rehydrate.
Cosplay events can attract large crowds, which can increase the risk of overcrowding, bottlenecks, and potential stampedes. Proper crowd management strategies, such as designated queuing areas, clear signage, and sufficient security personnel should be implemented to ensure smooth traffic flow and prevent accidents. By addressing these safety concerns and implementing appropriate measures, event organizers and cosplayers can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
What advice would you give to cosplayers who are looking to turn their hobby into a career?
Every step you take is not a challenge, it is a fun experience. There is no right or wrong. You learn to achieve your goals as long as you enjoy what you want to do in life.
If you could travel back in time to newbie cosplayer Fumiko, what would you tell her?
I would tell her to “keep on going! You are doing great as long as you are happy and enjoying every moment.”
Any upcoming cosplays or projects you’d like to share with our readers?
Please check out my Instagram for more updates about my upcoming projects and cosplays! I hope to see you guys at events!
If you’re an anime, cosplay or gaming enthusiast with something exciting to share, reach out to us on Facebook or Instagram and let’s collaborate!
