Josh had always loved to cosplay. From his first convention when he was 16 to now, at 22, he had perfected the art of creating costumes and embodying characters. But as he began to explore his gender identity and come to terms with being transgender, cosplay took on a new meaning for him. It became a way to express himself and try on different identities, temporarily escaping his own body and existing as the characters he loved.
As he prepared for his next convention, Josh decided to cosplay as one of his favorite characters from a video game – a handsome and stoic transmasculine character named Alex. Josh spent hours creating the perfect binder and facial hair, and when he finally stepped into the convention hall, he felt unstoppable. People flocked to him for pictures, and he even got stopped for a few interviews.
But amidst the chaos, a certain photographer caught his attention. He was tall with dark hair and a kind smile. Josh couldn't help but blush every time their eyes met. He watched as the photographer captured stunning shots of other cosplayers, and he wished he could be one of them.
It wasn't until the end of the day when the photographer approached him. 'Hey, I really loved your cosplay today. Do you mind if I take a few pictures of you?'
Josh's heart skipped a beat. 'Of course not,' he said, trying to hide his excitement.
As the photographer snapped away, they struck up a conversation. His name was Sam, and he loved capturing the unique and diverse cosplays at conventions. Josh found himself opening up about his journey as a transmasculine individual and how cosplay had helped him come to terms with his identity.
Sam listened intently, never once judging or questioning. When he finished taking the pictures, he handed Josh his card. 'I'd love to keep in touch and maybe collaborate on a photoshoot sometime?'
Josh couldn't believe it. Not only had he met a cute photographer, but one who was also interested in working with him. From then on, Sam became a regular part of Josh's convention experience. They would meet up to take pictures, and eventually, grab lunch together and chat about everything from cosplay to their personal lives.
As time went on, Josh found himself falling for Sam. He had never been in a relationship before, and the thought of being with someone who understood and accepted his identity was both terrifying and exciting. But he also didn't want to ruin their friendship or lose their collaborations.
It wasn't until one night, after a particularly long photoshoot, that Sam confessed his feelings for Josh. He explained how Josh's openness and confidence in his identity had inspired him and made him fall for him. Josh was overwhelmed with emotions but also relieved that Sam felt the same way.
From that day on, they were more than just photographer and cosplayer – they were a couple. And as they continued to attend conventions and create amazing cosplays together, Josh couldn't help but think that he had found the perfect partner in both cosplay and in life.
