The Role of Judges

Mark Lugo is a published New York–based photographer and the creative force behind NYCOSPLAYER, a page dedicated to his cosplay photography and showcasing the talent, artistry, and passion of the cosplay community. With six years of photography experience, including four years specializing in cosplay photography, he has become well known for capturing striking images that highlight both craftsmanship and character performance. His work has been featured in publications, including a cover feature with Creative Cosplays Magazine, and he continues to support creators throughout the cosplay community by helping bring their visions to life through photography and composite editing. Known for his eye for detail and storytelling, Mark has built a respected presence within the New York cosplay scene and beyond.

Yeraly Montes, known as Paradox Cosplay or Yerah, is a Puerto Rican-born, Texas-based bilingual cosplayer, artist, and entertainer with more than 15 years of experience and over 100 handmade cosplays. A self-taught foamsmith, seamstress, wig stylist, prop maker, photographer, and SFX editor, she is recognized for combining detailed craftsmanship with immersive character performance and storytelling. With a background in realistic art and mural painting, she has appeared as a guest, host, and judge at conventions across the United States and internationally, inspiring audiences through creativity, entertainment, and community engagement.

Marc Kandel has been cosplaying since 2012, and they still haven't kicked him out so I guess he'll just keep doing it seeing as how he bought all that glue and should use it before it just turns into a bucket-shaped piece of rubber.

Shannon Noelle is a master level cosplayer from the Philadelphia area with a keen eye for detail. Starting her cosplay journey in 2011, each cosplay she's created has acted as a stepping stone towards learning and mastering new skills including but not limited to: sewing, LEDs, foam armor, 3D printing, wig styling and much more. Through cosplay, she's had the honor of working with various companies including Blizzard Entertainment and Overwatch Esports, ATARI, and GFUEL Energy, just to name a few. When shes not crafting her next big competition cosplay, she can be found judging various craftsmanship and performance based competitions all along the East Coast! Shannon prides herself on being 100% self-taught through her journey and loves sharing her knowledge with others.

Gravel Road Cosplay is a master level cosplayer with over a decade of cosplay experience wiyh expertise in sewing.  GRC has been a Cosplay guest and judge in both the United States and Canada. He has been featured by Nickelodeon and Avatar: the Last Airbender for his Master Tenzin Cosplay. 

AMHCosplays began cosplaying in high school before returning to the hobby in 2002 after taking time away for everyday life. She currently serves as the cosplay director for Motor City Comic Con and LTU Expo, while also guest judging and mentoring new cosplay judges at conventions across the community. As the founder of Cosplay Over 40, she has helped build a worldwide community of more than 9,000 members that celebrates and supports older cosplayers. Passionate about accessibility and creativity, she encourages cosplayers of all skill levels to focus on fun, self-expression, and their love of fandom.

​Jay Eff Photos is a New York City–based cosplay photographer with over 10 years of experience behind the camera. Originally focused on fashion and portrait photography, his passion for cosplay photography grew after attending New York Comic Con in 2018. His work has been featured in multiple publications, including Creative Cosplays Magazine, and he continues to expand his creative reach through cosplayer interviews, convention travel, and collaborations with creators across the cosplay community.  

Jason Keith is an Eisner Award nominated color artist living in Richmond, Virginia.  For the majority of the past 15 years he has colored exclusively for Marvel Comics, on titles such as The Avengers, Hulk, Wolverine, Amazing Spider-Man, Mighty Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy, Ghost Rider, Ultimate Avengers, Star Wars and Darth Vader.  After years of being a guest at comic cons around the world, Jason created COSPLAY WORLD for all his cosplaying friends. 

Jason has been bringing iconic characters to life since 2008, building a reputation within the cosplay community for detailed craftsmanship, creativity, and immersive costume design. Known for portraying characters such as Captain America, Spider-Man, Ezio Auditore, and various Star Wars-inspired creations, he has continued to expand his skills through leatherworking, armor building, and 3D printing techniques. His work has been featured in magazines and podcasts, while his involvement in cosplay and charity communities throughout Ohio has made him a respected and inspiring presence within the fandom world.

AsMayDay is a cosplayer with close to 100 cosplays spanning the course of a decade. She has won 4 awards for craftsmanship in that time. She has also judged competitions at local events. AsMayDay specializes in wig styling, foam smithing, and having an eye for maximalist cosplays. When she’s at cons she runs a beginner cosplay crafting panel.

I’m @iheartcomics3k, a part-time photographer, part-time cosplayer, and community supporter who has been uplifting creative work in the cosplay community since 2017. I enjoy helping spotlight standout cosplayers and photographers to help enrich the community and bring people together.