Queer Voicesdisney disney princessesLGBT Teens

This Man's Transformation Into Disney Princesses Has To Be Seen To Be Believed

"The only thing that matters is how you feel when you look in that mirror and see yourself as the hero you've always wanted to be."
James Michael Nichols
By 

HuffPost Queer Voices Editor

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A 21-year-old Instagram artist is making waves across the Internet for his very convincing and thoroughly executed Disney Princess cosplay.

Richard Schaefer has spent the past five years perfecting his creative craft, using the classic Disney Princess canon as inspiration for his makeup transformations. From Snow White to Pocahontas, these new takes on many of our classic childhood heroines are something that have to been seen to be believed.

"Cosplay is a huge creative outlet for me," Schaefer told The Huffington Post. "I consider it my craft, as well as a way to live out my childhood fantasies. Ever since I was little I would make mermaid tails out of blankets and pretend I was Ariel from 'The Little Mermaid,' so I feel that little Richard would certainly approve."

Check out some of Schaefer's cosplay looks below, as well as our chat with him about his works of art.

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"I started when I was about 16 or so. Just by playing with the cheapest makeup I could find at Target. The most expensive product was my five dollar foundation from CoverGirl that I found on sale. The costumes on the other hand were made by hand. Some costumes were made from salvaged materials I found around the house such as table cloths and old t-shirts and the others were made from fabrics I found at a local discount fabric store."
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"I keep doing it because it keeps me happy and busy. I love learning new techniques and practicing in myself. I am constantly learning and I don't plan to stop any time soon."
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"For anyone who considers cosplaying all I can say is just do it! Honestly it's such a uplifting experience seeing yourself as your favorite hero (or villain). I feel truly beautiful every time I look in the mirror, it really does the trick when you're feeling down. Also remember that whatever skill level you are, you ARE enough. There is no 'right' way to do cosplay. The only thing that matters is how you feel when you look in that mirror and see yourself as the hero you've always wanted to be."
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"It doesn't matter what Gender, race, or species you are, cosplay will always be for you. So embrace your inner princess and go out and fight those dragons! You'll be glad you did."
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Want to see more from Schaefer? Head here to visit his Instagram.

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