Cosplayer Photographs

My Cosplayer photographs feature archetypal heroes, villains, and the folks behind masks and makeup. I explore how cosplay relates to people, lives, loves, and dreams.

This work reveals my headshot photographer origins. The lighting style I developed creating some of these early cosplayer headshots lives on today in my headshot photography.

Project Origins

I started photographing cosplayers when Hyperion Books (a division of Disney) commissioned me to photograph Rorke Denver for the cover of his novel Damn Few: Making the Modern SEAL Warrior.

Rorke is a pretty fantastic guy. In addition to his work as an author, he was the star of the film Act of Valor. During his 13-year career in the Navy, he led SEAL missions in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East, specializing in maritime interdiction, hostage rescue, counter-insurgency, hydrographic beach reconnaissance, airborne assault boat deployments, and counter-narcotics.

Denver was also an officer in charge of the SEAL Team Three platoon in Iraq’s Al Anbar Province, where he conducted more than 190 missions, including sniper operations, direct assaults, special reconnaissance, and ground patrols. Rorke was awarded the Bronze Star with “V” for valorous action in combat.

During one of our pre-production calls for his photo shoot, Rorke asked if his brother Nate could also attend the photo session. I was quick to say yes, but after asking a few questions, I discovered that Nate was a firefighter. I realized I had a rare opportunity to photograph two heroic archetypes in highly recognizable uniforms.

Those photographs later led me to track down cosplayers and photograph them in the same style—because I’m a geek. And the rest is history.

Fun Fact

David Baxter, a Making Faces Project participant, sat for me dressed as Sandor “The Hound” Clegane (Game of Thrones) and later entered one image from our session in a photo contest judged by George R. R. Martin. The video clip below shows the results!

Disclaimer

Any of the trademarks, design rights, or similar rights that may be associated with the uniforms or costumes worn by some subjects and featured in my photography are the property of their respective owners. Rob Greer Photography is neither endorsed by nor affiliated with any of the holders of those rights.