Collector's Spotlight Vol. 12 - @kaicooper87

Welcome back to Collector Spotlight - a regularly irregular interview with a fellow Mezco collector where we get all up in their shelf space, ask what's what and who's who, and learn more about how they pose, play, and display.

In this volume of Collector Spotlight, we're traveling a few thousand miles to the vibrant island nation of Bahrain where we meet Khalid (@kaicooper87), an avid collector who proves that his passion for collecting knows no bounds!

Let's scroll on to find out more about Khalid and how he's built his collection in the beautiful surroundings of Bahrain! 🏝️

Q: What sparked your interest in toy photography?
A: I used to have a huge collection back in the late 80s/early 90s but it's all gone. When we shifted to a new house, I decided to collect again in 2019 and get into photography.

Q: Which toy from your collection do you believe would thrill your younger self the most, and what makes it so special?
A: Freddy Kruger, I used to watch the franchise nonstop and dreamt of getting a Freddy figure.

Q: What aspect of the photography process do you enjoy the most?
A: Crafting dioramas is incredibly enjoyable, even though it requires a significant amount of energy.

Q: What is your favorite aspect of being a collector?
A: Displaying my nostalgic iconic characters on a shelf fills me with immense joy and a deep sense of connection to cherished memories from the past.

Q: If your toy collection were to suddenly spring to life, which toy do you think would be the most inclined towards mischief or adventure?
A: I'd say the Back to the Future figures because I've always had a fascination with time travel. If given the chance, I'd jump at the opportunity to journey back to the 80s and maybe even stay there forever.

Q: If you were stranded on a desert island and could only have one toy from your collection with you, which one would it be?
A: I'd pick TMNT Michelangelo because having him around would make for some enjoyable conversations and pizza parties!

Q: How has your perspective on collecting toys changed over time, and have there been any significant insights or lessons you've learned along the way?
A: I started poorly in toy photography, with just a phone, no lights, and then getting the benefit of sunlight. Over the course of a year or two, I gained a lot of experience and honed my skills. Now, I'm happy with my photography style, though I continue to look for opportunities for improvement and upgrade my equipment.

Q: How do you decide which toys to feature in your photography?
A: I find inspiration from watching movies, reading comics, and playing video games; they fuel my excitement to start shooting. However, the final decision often comes on whether I'm leaning towards horror or comic characters. Regardless, I try to capture the essence of each toy, aiming to present them in the best possible light similar to the movie cover or comic book.

Q: Are there any specific themes or types of toys you focus on collecting?
A: My collection primarily revolves around characters that have held significance for me since childhood, including those from horror, comics, movies, and games.

Q: What's your favorite movie that you've seen recently?
A: Recently, I watched "Poor Things," because I'm drawn to surreal content. However, if we're talking all-time favorites, then "Blade Runner" takes the top spot for me!

Q: Which One:12 Collective figure do you consider your favorite?
A: My favorite would have to be Wolverine (Deluxe), it has everything I want such as 8 extra heads, a mini Diorama, and tons of accessories

Q: Any advice you’d like to offer to new collectors?
A: Just collect what you like and don't force yourself to get everything, if you are a photographer, have a story for your shot, and don't add unnecessary effects.

Want to be featured in the next Collector Spotlight? Be sure to tag us in photos of your collection on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook!