Largest North American Cosplay/Anime Convention: Anime Expo (AX) | Cosplay Photographer

Anime Expo (also known as AX) is the largest Northern American Anime convention that is annually held in Southern California’s Los Angeles Convention Center. This is the Mecca of Anime conventions in North America. Drawing in 44,000+ people from all around the U.S. and the world for the three-day event, and like Disney World, there is just way too much to do, too much to see and too many people to meet.

While we weren’t able to attend Anime Expo this year, we were definitely there in spirit. There are so many amazing cosplay photographers (and cosplayers) down in Southern California, a small group of whom I’ve personally met at other conventions such as Fanime, I wanted to share and showcase the amazing work of just a few that went to Anime Expo this year. And that’s also not to say that there aren’t any talented and equally amazing cosplay photographers up North and I’ve also included a few in this list as well. Also I wanted to make this post as often times the photographers rarely get much credit. The cosplayers definitely did a lot of amazing work in putting together their costume, but these cosplay photographers have also spent hours during the shoots and after the shoots to fully do each costume and character justice.

I’m quite aware that there are many other amazing cosplay photographers that also did photoshoots at Anime Expo and while we would love to feature everyone here, there just isn’t enough space. But if it’s any consolation, when we make a post for next year’s Anime Expo, it’ll be a different group of cosplay photographers for fairness.

Come inside to see the pictures, but be forewarned, there are 33 large size images, so if you’re on dial-up, your connection will cry.

Andy Rak

Andy Rak is one of the amazing SoCal cosplay photograpers. His images are very unique with his distinctive post processing and amazing use of lighting and there is little doubt about why he’s often considered a favorite photographer among many people, including myself. I’ve been a long time fan of Andy since seeing his work on DeviantArt. Andy is also a approachable and fun to hang out with.

Eric Ng

Having met Eric Ng at Fanime 2010, I became an instant fan upon seeing his work. As an art teacher and naturally artistic, Eric’s pictures are powerful. Pay particular attention to his effective use of shadows, one of the most important, yet often overlooked aspects of photography. Eric Ng shows us that you don’t need fancy lights to create powerful and stunning images. Also if you’re a cosplayer, be sure to checkout Eric Ng’s other project, ConYearbook.

Anything Eric Ng does is amazing. Watch his video of Anime Expo coverage:

See more on his Vimeo site here.

Abbott Wang

I first became a fan of Abbott Wang when I saw his work on DeviantArt. Lots of killer cosplay images and powerful compositions. I even managed to get a picture with him at Fanime here, excuse my awkward facial expression, I was just too excited to finally meet him. I really like Abbott’s use of light and shadows in his images as well as his point-of-view and angles. Browsing through his gallery, you can’t help but be impressed. Also if you’re interested in being in the ConYearbook, Abbott is one of the staff photographers as well.

And as if photography wasn’t enough for the talented Abbott, here’s video also:

Ricky Ching-Yen Pai – Shiroin

Ricky Pai is an elusive photographer who I’ve never met in person, but we share common cosplayer friends. His work is well-known throughout the cosplay community as well as his love for Taiwanese beer. With a strong focus on compositions and minimal post production, Ricky’s images are always a pleasure to view. You can see many more of his killer shots on his website Cos-World.

Bruce Heinsius – Brucer007

As another photographer I’ve yet to meet, Bruce Heinsius is of a rare breed as you rarely meet professional photographers who also do cosplay photography. Bruce is relatively new to the scene of cosplay photography and I first became aware of his work on Cosplay.com and have since become a fan. Bruce brings a unique flavor and flare to his cosplay photos by introducing action elements to create exciting and captivating cosplay photos.

Quito de Sequera

I would also like to mention Quito, as I didn’t want to leave anyone out, but I don’t think he does cosplay photography, or even photography, anymore. His time is spent serving spending it with his girlfriend, Steff (Anti Ai-Chan).

Rachael Masako Ing (aka masa-kocha)

Rachael Masako Ing suddenly popped up on my radar one day and I was instantly intrigued and captivated by her amazing cosplay photos. Her compositions are compelling and great. She is also a welcome addition to the small group of NorCal cosplay photographers and splits her time between San Francisco and her home, Hawaii. You can see her amazing work on Flickr and her DeviantArt page.

Michael Cabusi

While we’re friends on Facebook, I never got the opportunity to meet Michael Cabusi in person. As part of the Socal cosplay photographers group, Michael has a great demeanor and attitude, the kind of person you could sit down and enjoy a beer with and chat it up until the cows come home, as well as being a kick-ass photographer! I love the strong contrasts of his images and his excellent use of lighting.

Minh Soi

Another one of the talented SoCal cosplay photographers, Minh Soi‘s compositions and post processing are definitely very captivating.

Zemotion

There really is much needed to be said about Zhang Jingna other than her photography is amazing. I don’t think she did any photography at Anime Expo, but she was there and one of these days, I would love to meet her.

Conclusion

Thank you to all the photographers who opted to be part of this. Amazing work by everyone and it’s truly inspirational. Keep up the amazing work.