Decept-a-CON

WELCOME:
To Our Second Annual Fundraising Gala!

Dress in your best semi-formal attire and don't be afraid to get a little Wonder-fully creative with your accessories!

You are cordially invited to The Wonderland Waltz!

We request your presence for an evening filled with magic, color, and fundraising at Salvatore’s Italian Gardens. Get ready to step into a world of wonder and lose yourself in the rhythm of the waltz.

Join us on Saturday, October 5th 2024 at Salvatore’s Italian Garden’s for our second annual gala. Come dressed in your best semi- formal attire & enjoy a formal dinner, open bar and lots of auction items to tickle any fancy! Celebrate with us, the spirit of giving, community and love.
Wear a unique accessory or outfit to style yourself to our theme this year and enjoy an evening of fun-draising.

Regular Tickets are $95 (March 1 – August 30th)
Last minute tickets if available (Sept 1-15th) will be $105
Limited seating available, and tickets will not be sold at the door, so get them while you can!

Dinner will be a dual entree consisting of Chateaubriand (Tenderloin Fillet) & Chicken Milanese featuring potato medley and garlic green beans as the sides. Vegetarian and gluten free options available on request.

The evening will also feature 50/50, basket, and other raffles, wine pull, music, dancing and more! All funds raised will go towards the Justice League of WNY’s mission to inspire, encourage and empower the kids of WNY and all of the programs and events we are trying to bring to the community.

Our goal with this event is to raise $15,000 to help our mission of bringing smiles to those who need it most and to fuel the minds of children through imagination and the power of hope. With your help, we can expand our reach further, farther and faster!

Mark your calendars and don’t be late for this amazing date!
We can’t wait to see you at The Wonderland Waltz!

====
About our Gala: https://justiceleagueofwny.com/gala/

Tickets now available.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-wonderland-waltz-tickets-803391524677

If you and your company are interested in becoming a gala sponsor, please click on the link below!
https://justiceleagueofwny.com/gala-sponsorships/

Where can you find some of your favorite comic and cartoon characters this August?

Upcoming list of August 2024 JLWNY Appearances and Events.
(*Not all appearances shown)

Aug 03 ALS Walk
Delaware Park - Corner of Meadow & Amherst behind the Zoo

Aug 06 National Night Out- Cheektowaga
Cheektowaga Town Park, 3600 Harlem Road, Cheektowaga, NY 14227

Aug 07 Community Health Center National Health Week Celebration
34 Benwood Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14214

Aug 10 ComiXsense Grand Opening
2051 Baseline Rd. Grand Island, NY 14072

Aug 10 EPIC One Year Anniversary Celebration
175 Walnut Street, Suite 5, Lockport, NY 14094

Aug 11 Asian Food & Cultural Fest
Canalside, 44 Prime Street, Buffalo, NY 14202

Aug 11 Buffalo Autism Project Resource Fair
Ismalia Shriner's 1600 Southwestern Blvd, Buffalo, NY

Aug 13 Johnnie B. Wiley National Nite Out
Johnnie B. Wiley Stadium 1100 Jefferson Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14208

Aug 17 Family Fun Fest/Carnival
44 Lake Street, Leroy, NY 14482

Aug 17 Courage for Carly- Gifts of Love and Hope
Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club
1 N Mullet St, Dunkirk, NY 14048

Aug 18 Wheatfield Family Picnic- 2024
Fairmount Park 6814 Nash Road, North Tonawanda, 14120

Aug 24 Johnnie B. Wiley Backpack Giveaway
Johnnie B. Wiley Stadium 1100 Jefferson Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14208

Aug 24 H.O.M.E Annual BBQ
1542 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14209

If you have a community or charity event and would like to discuss us appearing, please contact us. We love making kids of all ages smile. 🙂 (Please note, we are fully booked for August right now and September and Octoberare almost full)

If you're a WNY cosplayer who loves kids and bringing them some cheer, we'd like to talk to you. We're always looking for more people both in and out of costume with big hearts and love to share.

Please visit https://justiceleagueofwny.com for more information.
Thank you!

Together, we can help make the world a little bit brighter.

An Introduction to Cosplay Photography, Part 4

# Building a Portfolio as a Cosplay Photographer

# # Showcasing Diversity in Cosplay Characters

As a cosplay photographer, it's essential to showcase a diverse range of characters in your portfolio. Whether it's capturing popular mainstream cosplays or highlighting lesser-known gems, diversity adds depth and interest to your body of work. Plus, it shows potential clients and collaborators your versatility and creative range.

# # Networking with Cosplayers and Conventions

Networking is key in the cosplay photography world. Building relationships with cosplayers and conventions not only opens up opportunities for collaboration but also helps you stay connected to the community. Attend events, reach out on social media, and don't be afraid to strike up conversations—networking can lead to some of the most rewarding projects.

# Ethical Considerations in Cosplay Photography

# # Respecting Cosplayers' Wishes and Boundaries

Respect is non-negotiable in cosplay photography. Always prioritize the wishes and boundaries of the cosplayers you work with. Before any shoot, have a clear discussion about what is and isn't allowed in terms of editing, sharing, and the overall vision for the images. Trust and respect form the foundation of successful collaborations.

# # Obtaining Consent for Photoshoots and Sharing

Consent is key in cosplay photography ethics. Make sure to obtain explicit permission from cosplayers before taking their photos and sharing them online or in any public platform. Clearly communicate how the images will be used and respect their decision if they decline. Remember, it's about building trust and ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved.

Photo: 10-21-2023 Niagara Falls SPCA


***ACCEPTING VOLUNTEERS****
***Please feel free to share 🙂 ***

We're dressing up to make a difference in our communities.

Would you like to help us?

We're looking for new members, new support people, and new friends to join us as we seek to help those in need.

Apply Today!

Together, we can help make the world a little bit brighter.

An Introduction to Cosplay Photography, Part 3

Poses and Composition Tips for Cosplay Photoshoots

Pose Guidance for Different Character Types

Whether you're cosplaying a fierce warrior, a quirky sidekick, or a mysterious villain, the key is to embody the character in your poses. Strike a power pose, show off that epic prop, or give your best dramatic smolder.

Composition Rules for Dynamic Cosplay Shots

When composing your cosplay shots, think about the rule of thirds, leading lines, and negative space. Experiment with angles and perspectives to add depth and intrigue to your photos. Remember, it's not just about capturing a costume; it's about telling a story. # Editing and Retouching in Cosplay Photography

# # Software and Tools for Cosplay Photo Editing

When it comes to editing cosplay photos, having the right software and tools can make all the difference. Whether you're touching up colors, adding special effects, or removing pesky background distractions, programs like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom are popular choices among photographers. Don't be afraid to experiment with different tools to find what works best for your unique style.

# # Enhancing Cosplay Images Without Losing Authenticity

One of the challenges in editing cosplay photos is maintaining the authenticity of the character while still enhancing the overall look. It's all about finding that balance between perfecting imperfections and preserving the essence of the cosplay. Remember, a little touch-up here and there can go a long way, but don't lose sight of what makes each cosplay special.


Photo: 3-21-24 World Down Syndrome Day at GiGi's Playhouse Buffalo



***ACCEPTING VOLUNTEERS****

***Please feel free to share 🙂 ***

We're dressing up to make a difference in our communities.

Would you like to help us?

We're looking for new members, new support people, and new friends to join us as we seek to help those in need.
Apply Today!

Together, we can help make the world a little bit brighter.

Be a Queen, or King, and Come to our Court of Hearts!

We're excited to see you!

You are cordially invited to The Wonderland Waltz!

We request your presence for an evening filled with magic, color, and fundraising at Salvatore’s Italian Gardens. Get ready to step into a world of wonder and lose yourself in the rhythm of the waltz.

Join us on Saturday, October 5th 2024 at Salvatore’s Italian Garden’s for our second annual gala. Come dressed in your best semi- formal attire & enjoy a formal dinner, open bar and lots of auction items to tickle any fancy! Celebrate with us, the spirit of giving, community and love.
Wear a unique accessory or outfit to style yourself to our theme this year and enjoy an evening of fun-draising.

Regular Tickets are $95 (March 1 – August 30th)
Last minute tickets if available (Sept 1-15th) will be $105
Limited seating available, and tickets will not be sold at the door, so get them while you can!

Dinner will be a dual entree consisting of Chateaubriand (Tenderloin Fillet) & Chicken Milanese featuring potato medley and garlic green beans as the sides. Vegetarian and gluten free options available on request.

The evening will also feature 50/50, basket, and other raffles, wine pull, music, dancing and more! All funds raised will go towards the Justice League of WNY’s mission to inspire, encourage and empower the kids of WNY and all of the programs and events we are trying to bring to the community.

Our goal with this event is to raise $15,000 to help our mission of bringing smiles to those who need it most and to fuel the minds of children through imagination and the power of hope. With your help, we can expand our reach further, farther and faster!

Mark your calendars and don’t be late for this amazing date!
We can’t wait to see you at The Wonderland Waltz!

====
About our Gala: https://justiceleagueofwny.com/gala/

Tickets now available.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-wonderland-waltz-tickets-803391524677

If you and your company are interested in becoming a gala sponsor, please click on the link below!
https://justiceleagueofwny.com/gala-sponsorships/

An Introduction to Cosplay Photography

Today we begin a series on cosplay photography. This overview will touch on what it is, what gear you need, as well as finding people to photograph and make awesome images togather!

Cosplay photography serves as a vibrant intersection where the artistry of photography merges with the creativity and passion of cosplay. In this niche field, photographers capture the intricate costumes, detailed props, and captivating personas of cosplayers, bringing characters from various fandoms to life through stunning imagery. This article delves into the realm of cosplay photography, exploring essential equipment choices, lighting techniques, posing tips, editing considerations, and ethical guidelines that shape the practice. Whether you're a seasoned cosplay photographer looking to refine your skills or a newcomer eager to delve into this captivating world, this guide aims to provide valuable insights and strategies for capturing the magic of cosplay through the lens.

What is Cosplay Photography?

Cosplay photography is the art of capturing individuals dressed up as characters from their favorite movies, TV shows, comics, or video games. It's like a cool mashup of costume design and photography, where creativity knows no bounds.

The Intersection of Photography and Fandom

Cosplay photography brings together two geeky passions: photography and fandom. It's a celebration of creativity, imagination, and the love for pop culture. It's where photographers geek out over lighting setups as much as cosplayers geek out over crafting the perfect costume.

Photo: 5-11-2024 Free Comic Book Festival


***ACCEPTING VOLUNTEERS****
***Please feel free to share 🙂 ***

We're dressing up to make a difference in our communities.

Would you like to help us?

We're looking for new members, new support people, and new friends to join us as we seek to help those in need.

Apply Today!

https://justiceleagueofwny.com/membership-application/

Together, we can help make the world a little bit brighter.

#585 #716

Getting Started Making Foam Armor, Part 7 (Conclusion)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use foam armor for actual protection? While foam armor can be sturdy and provide some level of protection in certain situations, it is not recommended for actual combat or heavy impact. Foam armor is primarily used for cosplay, LARPing, and other forms of costume and prop making. It is important to remember that safety should always be a top priority when crafting and wearing foam armor.

2. Do I need previous crafting experience to make foam armor? While previous crafting experience can certainly be helpful when making foam armor, it is not necessarily required. There are plenty of tutorials and resources available online that can guide beginners through the process step by step. With practice and patience, even those new to crafting can create impressive foam armor pieces.

Additionally, the durability of foam armor for long-term use can vary depending on the quality of materials used and how well it is cared for. Proper maintenance, such as storing it in a cool, dry place and avoiding excessive wear and tear, can help extend the lifespan of foam armor. Regular inspections and repairs can also help ensure that it remains in good condition for as long as possible.

3. How durable is foam armor for long-term use? Foam armor can be quite durable for long-term use, especially when properly maintained through regular inspections and repairs. By taking proactive measures to ensure its good condition, foam armor can last for a significant amount of time, providing reliable protection for the wearer. Additionally, investing in high-quality foam materials and craftsmanship can further enhance its durability and longevity.

Photo: American Cancer Society Breast Cancer Walk 10-22-2022

***ACCEPTING VOLUNTEERS****
***Please feel free to share 🙂 ***
We're dressing up to make a difference in our communities.

Would you like to help us?
We're looking for new members, new support people, and new friends to join us as we seek to help those in need.

Apply Today! https://justiceleagueofwny.com/membership-application/
Together, we can help make the world a little bit brighter.

#585 #716

Getting Started Making Foam Armor, Part 3

Essential Tools for Foam Armor Making
To conquer the realm of foam armor crafting, you'll need a trusty set of tools. A sharp craft knife (no, not for cutting sandwiches), a cutting mat, heat gun, contact cement, and a heat-resistant glove are just a few of the essentials. Think of them as your crafting sidekicks, ready to help you on your creative journey.

Pattern Making and Cutting Techniques
Creating armor pieces from foam is like solving a puzzle—except you get to decide what the final picture looks like. Pattern making and precision cutting are crucial steps to ensure your armor fits like a glove and looks as epic as a dragon in a treasure hoard.

Creating Templates for Armor Pieces
Templates are your blueprint for success in foam armor crafting. Whether you're designing a breastplate, bracer, or shoulder pauldron, having accurate templates will save you from a crafting meltdown. Get your ruler and pencil ready—it's time to draft like a pro.

Photo: Buffalo Walk to Defeat ALS 8/6/2022

***ACCEPTING VOLUNTEERS****
***Please feel free to share 🙂 ***
We're dressing up to make a difference in our communities.

Would you like to help us?
We're looking for new members, new support people, and new friends to join us as we seek to help those in need.

Apply Today! https://justiceleagueofwny.com/membership-application/
Together, we can help make the world a little bit brighter.

#585 #716

Getting Started Making Foam Armor, Part 2

Benefits of Using Foam for Armor Making
Foam is the chameleon of crafting materials—it can take on any shape or texture with the right techniques. It's forgiving (unlike that grudge-holding cat in your life) and can be easily repaired or modified. Plus, it's comfy to wear and won't clang like a one-man band as you strut your stuff at the next convention.

Choosing the Right Materials and Tools
Before you embark on your foam armor quest, make sure you have the right materials and tools at your disposal. It's like preparing for battle, but with less risk of losing a limb.

Types of Foam for Armor Crafting
Not all foam is created equal. EVA foam is a popular choice for armor making due to its durability and ease of shaping. Craft foam is another option for simpler designs and can be found at your local craft store. Just remember, the foam is mightier than the sword (at least in this crafting context

Photo: Gifts of Love, Dunkirk NY 8-20-2022

***ACCEPTING VOLUNTEERS****
***Please feel free to share 🙂 ***
We're dressing up to make a difference in our communities.

Would you like to help us?
We're looking for new members, new support people, and new friends to join us as we seek to help those in need.

Apply Today! https://justiceleagueofwny.com/membership-application/
Together, we can help make the world a little bit brighter.

#585 #716

Join us for Give 716!
Give 716 is a 26-hour giving event hosted by the Buffalo Sabres Foundation and the Buffalo Bills Foundation and designed to celebrate philanthropy in Western New York. It's a chance for our community to come together and support the causes we care about most.

Bills Autographed Jersey
Presented by Legends
Offer starts Jul 15, 2024, 8:00 PM EDT.
$716 minimum donation required, only the first 100 donors will receive this, so don't delay!!
$7.16 shipping fee

To support Justice League of WNY in their mission to brighten the lives of the kids in WNY, please donate through this link https://give716.org/share/give716/68/charities/justice-league-of-wny-inc

Thank you for your support!

Empire Comic Fest 2024 http://empirecomicfest.com/show-details/tickets/

Making his inaugural appearance at the Empire Comic Fest - Al Milgrom!

Al has more credits to his name than there is space here to list! Having worked as an artist, writer, inker and editor for Archie Comics, Atlas/Seaboard, Dark Horse Comics, Dc, Image, Marvel plus several more publishers, his list of achievements is long.

Come show your support for Al and stop by the upcoming Empire Comic Fest - July 12th & 13th, 2024 at the JCC (Louis S Wolk Community Center) in Brighton, NY - where we will feature two big days of wall-to-wall comic vendors, an artist alley, panels and best of all, free admission!

www.EmpireComicFest.com

Get ready for a one of a kind experience as we welcome the Jack Kirby Museum to the Empire Comic Fest! Check out the Kirby Museum booth in artist alley for a display of some rarely seen Jack Kirby original art and related ephemera. While you marvel at these pieces of history, consider purchasing some of the Kirby Museum merchandise and donate to help support their cause in preserving the legacy of Jack Kirby.

http://empirecomicfest.com/

Empire Comic Fest - July 12th & 13th, 2024 at the JCC (Louis S Wolk Community Center) in Brighton, NY - where we will feature two big days of wall-to-wall comic vendors, an artist alley, panels and best of all, free general admission!

Announcing the creator line up for our new Indie Showcase at Empire Comic Fest!

Appearing Friday, July 12th - writer David Ebeltoft, comic creator Nigel Carrington, artist Rick Arthur and artist/publisher Sam Fratto!

Stop by on Friday, July 12th and check out these great creators in artist alley. Stay tuned for even more guest announcements for Saturday, July 13th!

http://empirecomicfest.com/

Empire Comic Fest - July 12th & 13th, 2024 at the JCC (Louis S Wolk Community Center) in Brighton, NY - where we will feature two big days of wall-to-wall comic vendors, an artist alley, panels and best of all, free general admission!

We're thrilled to announce that Justice League of Wny will be participating again in Give 716 hosted by the Buffalo Sabres Foundation and the Buffalo Bills Foundation! 🎉

Give 716 is a 26-hour giving event designed to celebrate philanthropy in Western New York. It's a chance for our community to come together and support the causes we care about most.

The event kicks off at 7:16 pm on July 15th and runs through 11:59 pm on July 16th. Mark your calendars and get ready to give back!

In the coming weeks, we'll be sharing more information about how you can support Justice League of WNY during Give 716. Stay tuned and learn more at give716.org!

The presents the 2nd Annual Dare to Dream Dance Toy Drive! We are helping out and accepting donations of NEW toys here at Orion Toys from now through June 30th.
The Dare to Dream Dance is hosted for children who live with debilitating and often life-threatening diseases. This Toy Drive is to make sure the dance will have plenty toys for them. It will be held on July 28th.
We appreciate any donation of a NEW toy that you bring in. Ages 3-17. You're also welcome to purchase a toy here and donate that as well. The important thing is to donate and help the kids!

Thank you!

Upcoming list of July-Dec JLWNY Appearances and Events.
(*Not all appearances shown)

Jul 13
Stevie Johnson's Charity Basketball Tournament
Buffalo, NY

Jul 14
Tops Celebrity Putting Contest
East Amherst, NY

Jul 14
James F Lee III Blood Drive- 3rd Annual
Tonawanda NY

Jul 16
716 CommUNITY Day for Dion's Dreamers
Buffalo NY

Jul 19
JLWNY Tattoo Fundraiser

Jul 26
Family Fun Fridays- July King Urban Life Center
Buffalo, NY

Jul 28
Dare to Dream Dance: 2024
Buffalo NY

Jul 28
Black and Latino Pride Festival
Buffalo, NY

Aug 03
ALS Walk - Buffalo NY

Aug 11
Asian Food & Cultural Fest - Buffalo NY

Aug 13
Johnnie B. Wiley National Nite Out - Buffalo NY

Aug 16
Gifts of Love & Hope - Dunkirk NY

Aug 18
Wheatfield Family Picnic- 2024 - Wheatfield NY

Aug 24
Johnnie B. Wiley Backpack Giveaway - Buffalo NY

Aug 24
H.O.M.E Annual BBQ - Buffalo NY

Sep 18
Shine Gold Event- Hope Rises - Buffalo NY

Sep 21
Niagara County Alzheimer's Walk - Niagara Falls NY

Oct 05
JLWNY Presents: The Wonderland Waltz - Buffalo NY

Oct 25
Neighborhood Trick or Treat -5 Loaves Farm - Buffalo NY

If you have a community or charity event and would like to discuss us appearing, please contact us. We love making kids of all ages smile. 🙂 (Please note, we are fully booked for May & June right now., and July is almost full)

If you're a WNY cosplayer who loves kids and bringing them some cheer, we'd like to talk to you. We're always looking for more people both in and out of costume with big hearts and love to share.
Please visit https://justiceleagueofwny.com for more information.
Thank you!

Together, we can help make the world a little bit brighter.

We're Looking For a Few Good People!

Our event and appearance schedule for 2024 is filling up fast. We need more good-hearted people so we can continue to do more for the kids across WNY.

Do you have free time and transportation, and love seeing kids smile?

We are hoping to recruit a few awesome local cosplayers and support people who might be interested in volunteering to help us bring cheer to kids who need smiles.

If that's you, we would love to chat!

All costumes must be high quality and you must be able to pass a background check.

Please share if you know someone that might be willing to suit up for great causes!

Apply Today! https://justiceleagueofwny.com/membership-application/

Together, we can help make the world a little bit brighter.


#585 #716

Have you seen us at events and wondered?

What is it we do?
What it takes to be a volunteer?
Where do we get the costumes?
What we do beyond being in costume?
If you could do it too?
Well, wonder no more!

The Justice League of WNY, in partnership with Kingpin Comics & Gaming is hosting a Volunteer Job Fair.
We are looking for cosplayers, photographers, graphic artists, videographers, event support and more.
Stop in and meet with members of our team, from in costume, to support, to all the behind the scenes stuff thats helped us inspire, encourage and empower kids across WNY since 2018.

Saturday, September 2, 2023
11AM - 3PM
Kingpin Comics & Gaming
3660 Delaware Ave
Buffalo, NY 14217

Together, we can help make the world a little bit brighter.


See less

https://www.facebook.com/events/1022659142244338/

Asian Food & Culture Festival Come out to Canalside to experience the varieties of Asian Cultures we have locally at Buffalo!

The Justice League of WNY in partnership with Vallone Law Firm is hosting a Toy Drive to benefit the Dare to Dream Dance for Oshei and Brave Little Fighter Kids.

Toys can be dropped off Monday thru Friday 9am-5pm until August 11th at
Vallone Law Firm
2560 Walden Ave. Suite 104
Cheektowaga, NY 14225

We are looking for new latex free toys for ages 3 - 17.

Games, Puzzles, Dolls, Action Figures & Stuffed Animals. New wigs, head wraps, princess dresses, superheroes and sci-fi costumes and any accessories to go with those are also welcome.

Help us make a magical day for some awesome kids!

Together, we can help make the world a little bit brighter.



*Photo by Bruce Tang on Unspla