How to Act: Mastering Improvisation and Staying in Character for Photoshoots and Conventions

Part of the fun of cosplay is fully embodying the character you’re portraying during photo or video shoots, but more so during conventions. You’re given the unique opportunity to live in the shoes of that character and be them for a while. You However, staying in character can be challenging, especially during moments when people would ask you questions or chat with you as if they are talking to the character itself. Here are some helpful tips to aid you in these situations.

1. Know The Character Intimately

In acting, internalization is important. Theater and movie actors devote much of their time to studying their roles and getting to know their characters intimately. It’s not enough that you know your character’s catchphrases; you also need to know their innermost thoughts, motivations, values, and what drives them to do what they do. If you’re portraying a villainous figure, try to understand WHY they are villainous. Learn their backstories and imagine yourself as the character, undergoing the experiences they went through.

You can do this by watching their shows and reading as much material about them as possible. Whenever they do something, always try to connect it back to their past. Once you’ve given time to internalize, you’ll understand your character better, and you’ll be able to respond as they would in any situation.

Another approach is to do characterization exercises. This is a good way for you not just to enrich your knowledge about the character, but to connect with them on a deeper level. Below is a list of some questions you can answer as the character itself to help you get started:

• What defining traits shape the character’s behavior?
• How do these traits influence their choices and actions?
• What fuels the character’s drive and ambitions?
• What inner turmoil does the character grapple with?
• How do these internal battles impact their decisions?
• How does the character engage with others?
• Which pivotal incidents contributed to your character’s disposition?
• Are they archetypal in nature (hero, mentor, antagonist)?
• How does the character communicate? What is their conversational style?
• Does their speech unveil aspects of their background or persona? If yes, how?
• What backstory shapes the character’s present actions?
• Are there past events significantly molding their identity?
• What hobbies or interests does the character pursue?
• Does the character have dreams or aspirations beyond immediate goals?
• What role does humor or coping mechanisms play in the character’s life?
• How do they handle stress or difficult situations?
• Does the character have any addictions or recurring habits?
• Beyond immediate desires, what are the character’s long-term goals?
• How do these aspirations shape their decisions and actions?

2. “If This Is True, What Else Is True”

There’s an improv theater technique called “if this is true, what else is true”. It means acknowledging the possible truths that can happen in a scene, given everything we know about the characters. For example, if it’s true that the character in the scene recently underwent a break-up, then it’s also true that they could get triggered by anything that reminds them of their ex.

In the same way, you can apply this when embodying your character. If it’s true that your chosen figure grew up as an optimist, then it could also be true that they would still respond positively to depressing scenarios. Use this to program your words, tone, and body language to suit your character’s personality. This exercise is a great way for you to explore the character and think more as them most especially on how they would act to certain ‘real world’ stimulus.

3. Separating Yourself From Your Character

Another challenging scenario would be when you are compelled to respond in such a way that differs with your own values, but is fitting for your character. For instance, you may be portraying a villain, but your true personality is a kind-hearted and caring individual who wouldn’t hurt a fly. Thus, it is important to note that you are not your character. Whatever your character responds is a result of THEIR inner motivations, not yours. The audience should understand this as well and must not attribute your responses to your true self. That’s also why it’s crucial to ensure that when you’re in costume, people will see your character, not you.

In professional acting, there are actors who choose to fully live and breathe as the characters they are portraying so as to be able to tell their story in a really authentic and believable way. They are what you would call method actors. These method actors do not blur the lines between themselves and the character but instead, they BECOME the character for the duration of their project. This can also be an option you may consider but of course, at one point, you will have to learn how to step out of that character’s shoes. Some good measures for this would be to appoint someone or have an item as your anchor to the real you.

Aside from these, it always helps to take improv or acting workshops, so that you can hone your craft further. It’ll all eventually pay off once you see yourself fully embodying your chosen character.