Check out my Con-Review for Holiday Matsuri 2016 along with some epic shots from my photoshoots at the convention.
The Weekend of 12/17 to 12/17 I attended the christmas themed annual convention known as Holiday Matsuri. It's pretty much a Christmas Party Con for Geeks, Anime Loves and Cosplayers. This was my fourth year attending Holiday Matsuri, but my first year with an official media press. It was a great experience and can't wait to do it again next year if they would allow me another pass again. Now How did Holiday Matsuri shape up as a convention this year at the new venue? Is it worth it to attending and your time?
The convention was held at the Orlando World Center Marriott, a change from its previous home at the Caribe Royale Orlando which got alot of love for photoshoots for its epic waterfall by the pool area and forest location that is near the hotel. But Orlando World Center Marriott made it up with hits HUGE area with full space for shooting locations along with the outside area with the pool and great scenic locations. Which made it perfect for photographers like me to get amazing shots with no hassle of space or staff being annoying like the Megacon Staff earlier this year..... (No more Megacon for this photographer)
In Addition the event and panel locations felt a bit spread out, This was HolMat’s first year at the Marriott, I been to conventions at this location before such Omni Expo which is not on my list anymore for attending. But the venue has potential to be a really great spot: the hotel itself is quite lovely, featuring a beautiful swimming area which is great for relaxing with friends or getting some great shots in photoshoots. In the end I can't wait to see what they do it with next year. I’m sure that the helpful and creative staff will look into ways to make the best use of the space in the future. Oh and another thing with the parking.
Last year, parking was a HUGE nightmare when it was at the Caribe Royale but this year with the Orlando World Center Marriott, they did an amazing job with parking which I was able to get parking quick and with no hassle (hi fives to the Holiday Matsuri Staff on that one)
Holiday Matsuri always shines when it comes to panels. There really is something for everyone, and the majority of them are interactive, which is something I have always valued when it comes to cons. I didn't get the chance to attended many of them due to my photoshoot schedule however I was able to attend my friend's Panel (ImPhotography) on how to run a cosplay photography business and it was very educational and an eye opener.
For the past 3 years as a HolMat attendee, they have always delivered on having relevant guests that include voice actors, YouTubers, cosplayers such as the amazing Moderately Okay Cosplay, Alyson Tabitha, Leaping Lizard Cosplay and other public figures that are known and admired within the community.
Most of the HolMat attendees were out in some of the most amazing and detailed cosplays, with a good chunk of them having a holiday twist which is perfect for the convention and theme. (you can check out some of the cosplays below from my photoshoots in the slideshow)
Holiday Matsuri 2016 earned registration for a weekend pass, with a final total of $55 for a three day badge at the door. It was my fourth Holiday Matsuri and 3 different venue for the convention if i can recall. If you’re a geek nerd or cosplayer feeling the holiday spirit, Holiday Matsuri is the con for you!!!
BRILAN IMAGERY PHOTOSHOOTS
Overall - 4/5
Venue - 4/5
Staff - 4/5
Layout - 5/5
Attendance - 5/5
Affordability - 5/5
BRIAN LANSANGAN
PHOTOGRAPHER / BLOGGER
BRILAN IMAGERY