Some photos hit the web a few weeks back that revealed a secret side of cosplay… the elves. No, we don’t mean people cosplaying as elves. We mean the dutiful assistants and co-crafters who sometimes act literally as a chair only to be digitally removed after the fact. Let’s take a look at some of these photos from Korean cosplayer (and member of Spiral Cats) Tasha, who’s given us a look behind the scenes and a chance to be thankful to those often unnamed friends who give cosplayers so much support.

You’re looking for a very dedicated man in a black jacket… if that’s not clear.

Elf seen here as hidden chair. | Image Courtesy of Tasha Cosplay

Action shot via secret elf support. | Image Courtesy of Tasha Cosplay

Images are not directly related but the message is “Good cosplay photos are a lot of work!” | Image Courtesy of Tasha Cosplay

Cosplay elving is hard work. | Image Courtesy of Tasha Cosplay

So, remember that behind every good cosplayer is a small army of elves; from living chairs to makeup artists to friends who bring over food so the sewing doesn’t stop. While not all of them will be credited, they make all these awesome images possible. You go, elves! We love you!

Cosplayers, elves, give us your stories in the comments. What’s the strangest thing you’ve had to do to get a shot?

Header Image (and others) Courtesy of Tasha Cosplay