Today, we bring you one of the talented powerhouse builders in the Kansas City area, Stephen K. Smith. He has exceled in prop building, from his Borderlands Psycho masks to even being featured by Bioware for the amazing work done on his Dragon Age: Inquisition Inquisitor armor. Be sure to check out his Destiny: The Game gear that will be on display at Planet Comicon this year.
How did you get into cosplay?
I got into cosplay 2 years ago when I made my very first prop mask, a psycho bandit from the video game Borderlands. My friends and I all went as Borderlands character to Planet Comicon. Since then I have traveled all around the country making new fans and friends.
How many characters are you currently cosplaying and what are they?
Currently I have 3 main characters the Borderlands Psycho, Isaac Clarke from Dead Space, and the Inquisitor from Dragon Age Inquisition.
What’s your favorite cosplay you’ve done so far and why?
Isaac from Dead Space still has to be my favorite just because it was by far the biggest challenge to create. Isaac took over 300 hours and 3 months to create start to finish.
What’s your favorite way to craft?
Hanging out in my shop working on a new project with music or movies playing in the background.
What’s your favorite crafting item to work with and why?
By far my favorite and most valuable tool in my crafting toolbox is my Dremel. Never leave home without it.
What are your cosplay goals?
I’m moving toward a professional career. A couple of months back I decided to take the plunge to be a full time prop / costume maker and it has been awesome! I have worked harder than I ever have in my entire life, but it has been so worth it.
What’s your dream cosplay and why?
Dead Space was my dream personal project and is my favorite so far. But every new costume brings new challenges and rewards.
What advice would you give someone who wants to get into cosplay?
The best advice I can give is to have fun!
What other interests do you have outside of cosplay?
Hanging out with my wife and 2 beautiful daughters. They will tell you that I work pretty much non stop. But it is always great to have a little free time with them. They are by far my biggest supporters.
If you could have dinner with one fictional character, who would it be and why?
Hellboy. Why? Because it’s Hellboy.
You can meet Steven K. Smith at Planet Comicon on March 13th – 15th!
You can also follow his work on his props page on Facebook.
KC Cosplay & Photography 