![]() One of the most important cosplay (and really any con goer) lessons is con etiquette. With so many things to do, people to meet, and places to be, sometimes people don’t act in the appropriate manner. There are a lot of con etiquette points to touch on, so today I chose to focus on some of the main ones that focus more on cosplay. The biggest thing to remember is to ask people first. You want a picture of someone? Ask them, you’ll get a much better picture and the person could turn out to be pretty cool. You want to do a certain pose or touch someone? Ask them, people have different comfort levels, and your request might not be comfortable with them. Want to touch someone’s prop or a part of their outfit? Ask them, it might be frail and fragile, so handling it might not be the best thing. After asking, it is important to respect what someone says. Everyone has a reason for their answer and it does not have to be apparent to you. At conventions, there will be all types and all levels of cosplayers. Do not make any critiques or “helpful advice” of a cosplay without the cosplayer asking for advice. Everyone one works hard on their cosplay, and there is no need to tear someone down because their cosplay isn’t up to your standards. Even something well-meaning can be hurtful. Even worse, don’t bash a cosplay or a cosplayer because you don’t like how it’s done or yours is “better.” Cosplay is a fun hobby that is supposed to bring the community together. It is not an elitist show of who can do everything best. Find the right balance of acting in character. One of the best aspects of cosplay is acting as a favorite character, but some things might be a little overboard. If you’re at a con with children, and you’re cosplaying a character that swears or might not act in a kid-friendly way, it’s best to leave that part out. Or if your character is really touchy-feely, you can’t use that as an excuse to touch people without their permission. Speaking of kids, be on your best behavior when you’re around them, especially if you are in a character geared towards children. Some kids don’t get the opportunity to go to theme parks and meet their favorite characters, so seeing characters at cons is their only way to meet them. Don’t be the jerk who ruins a kid’s favorite character. Always treat the kids with respect, and if you cannot honor their request, try to find a way to do it later, or turn them down politely. There’s no reason to beak a kid’s spirit. Keep hallways and tight areas clear. Most cons have a lot of people, and tight areas and hallways can get cluttered when people stop for photos, or for a long conversation. If it looks like a high traffic area, it might not be the best place to hold your shoot. Another thing to keep in mind is don’t interrupt a photo shoot. A lot of cosplayers pay for their photographers and they only work with them for a set time. If you want a photo of a cosplayer, or to schedule something with the photographer, wait until the shoot is done. Whichever party you were hoping to speak with can focus on you and give their whole attention. Are there any main points I left out? Drop them in the comments so we can discuss them further! Originally posted on nerd Fest's Blog
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Cosplay is not consent. It's a common phrase that's plastered around conventions, and a topic that is near to my heart. Although this phrase has one common meaning, there are other aspects that a lot of people (including other cosplayers) forget. The main action most people think of when they hear this phrase is touching. Regardless of the person's gender, what they are wearing, or what character they are acting as, there is nothing that automatically gives consent. Whether it is a hug, high five, or an arm around the waist, you should always ask a person before you touch them in any way. Do not be the creep with the camera. One of the most infuriating things is having someone sneak your picture. I have spoken with a lot of cosplayers on the subject, and it makes you look creepy. Always ask before getting a picture. You will get a better shot, and the cosplayer will feel more comfortable. If you want to get in the photo (or someone else) and do a certain pose, always ask first. If it is something they are not comfortable with, drop it and do something else. If there are a couple of cosplayers and you want them to do a shippy photo, ask first. You can't just assume they will do anything you ask them to. You ever see someone in a cosplay and see something that is not accurate, or you know a way to do better? Don't tell them. Their cosplay is not consent to rip them down or give them unsolicited advice. Instead give them a compliment and discuss the character or series. Under no circumstance should you ever say something derogatory, sexual, racist or homophobic to a cosplayer (or really anyone). Their cosplays are not an invitation to tear them down. Cosplay is also not an invitation to hang around. While cosplaying is a great way to meet new people, you don't want to over stay your welcome. If you plan on following someone around, ask if it's okay. Just because you are cosplaying the same series, it doesn't mean that you have to stick together. If they do say no, it doesn't necessarily mean that they are being mean or acting rude. They might be uncomfortable with new people, introverted, or already have plans. Don't be disrespectful if someone does not want to be with you. Part of being in cosplay is acting as the character you are dressing as. If you are going to drag another person in to your act, always ask them first, especially if it involves touching them in any way. Everyone is entitled to enjoy the con, so don't do anything that will upset them. If someone says to stop, or leave them alone, respect their wishes and go on to enjoy your own con experiences.
In short, remember that the cosplayers are human with their own set of values and emotions. They have a right to their body and comfort. They are not your favorite character/waifu/husbando/arch nemesis. Treat them with respect and ALWAYS ask for consent. Originally posted on Nerd Fest |
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Gamora: Get Geekish Blake: Yuki Cat Captures Nui: Ham Sandwich What's this?These post are different cosplay advice topics that I think people would find useful. Categories vary, so they can help beginners as well as veterans. Archives
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