Interview with Leen Isabel

Hello boys and girls,

How are you today? Well, my FB page for Derf’s Domain has reached 100 likes and I am very proud of the that. As promised, I am delivering a bonus cosplay interview for every 100 likes my Derf’s Domain FB page gets. Let me tell you, I couldn’t have picked a better cosplayer for this momentous occasion. Her name is Leen Isabel and she is a very talented cosplayer from Los Angeles, Ca. In my opinion, she is one of the best Chun-Li cosplayers out there. So, without further hesitation, I present to you my interview with Leen Isabel.

1. Who are you and where are you from?

Hi! My name is Leen Isabel and I’m from Los Angeles, CA!

2. How did you discover cosplay?

I used to subscribe to the now defunct magazine, Animerica, which was my first exposure to cosplay. Other readers would submit their photos and I used to get inspired by them!

3. I really love your Ada Wong cosplay. What made you choose her?

I’ve been a huge fan of the Resident Evil games since the first one came out. Ada Wong is such a renegade and I admire her! She gets people out of trouble and she works on her own terms. I loved seeing more of her in 5 & 6.

4. What other characters have you cosplayed?

I tend to pick characters I relate to or have great respect in. Other characters I’ve done are: Chun-li from Street Fighter, Roxy/Freefall from Gen 13, Psylocke from X-Men… to name a few!

5. What is your favorite genre to cosplay?

It seems like I enjoy sticking to comic-book and video game characters! Reading comics and playing video games are two of my favorite hobbies. But, you never know! There are fantastic characters in films and cartoons/anime too!

6. What is your favorite way to show off your new costumes?

To be honest, I love doing private photo shoots more than wearing costumes at conventions. It’s a fun way to really jump into the character you’re wearing. If I’m portraying a ninja — I’d like to climb roofs or trees! (Oh, is that a hint for a future cosplay I’m working on? Hmm!)

7. Do you do other modeling besides cosplay?

Not usually. Modeling in cosplay is when I have the most fun! My work and schedule as an illustrator takes up most of my time but if a fun event pops up, I love doing it!

8. What are your plans for the future?

I plan to attend Anime Expo 2013 and San Diego Comic Con 2013. Wondercon 2013 is pending at the moment. I’ll be working on new cosplay and artwork to debut in the new year.

9. Where can my readers see more examples of your work?

www.leenisabel.com is my personal website!

You can connect with me on Facebook at:

www.facebook.com/leenisabelartist

10. If you had to pick one cosplay, which one is your favorite?

Of what I’ve worn so far, Chun-li is my favorite! Street Fighter II was one of the first games I ever played so it’s a bit nostalgic for me!