Last Comic-Con I had a shy guy follow me around for like minutes (without me realising) Cause he was to shy to ask for a photo. No need to be shy. We are Fandom Family :)
For me, when I'm in character (in a non talking cosplay when I'm in full suit ) The only time I "break" character is if 1. I'm buying something 2. Talking to my friends/group 3. if I wanna take a picture of someone else
Don't judge a cosplayer on whether or not they bought or made there cosplay. It's just stupid. Some people can't sew well enough to make a cosplay (for example) and some people don't have enough money to buy cosplay (again, example). People can cosplay how ever they like.
but I feel like making your cosplays you still need lots of money to buy fabric and all the things you need you might even spend as much money as you would buying it
True. How many cosplayers have spent $100 or more dollars just to make a certain cosplay outfit. Most of the time you can find a cosplay costume online and spend the same amount of money that it would to make your own cosplay costume if you could.
A good tip is to ask "Where did you get your cosplay items?" so that those who did make their costume are able to tell you pieces they worked on themselves and those who bought their cosplay don't feel embarrassed on not knowing what material their costume is made out of, i've been in each boat! Either way, have a blast! ;u;
rosybritain ive made cosplays and had people ask what fabric i used anything besides pleather im just like "the fabric that looked nice in the store?" haha
Also, try, just TRY not to be a misogynistic creepazoid and assume because a cosplayer is wearing a revealing costume, that you're allowed to make gross comments on their body or touch them.
yeah it can really ruin someone's day if that happens! i had a friend who once cosplayed as chat noir from miraculous ladybug, and the costume involves a fairly skintight black bodysuit - since the character is meant to be a young-ish teenager, it wasnt sexualised at all and yet she had loads of creepy comments about how she probably bought it from a fetish/bondage website and yeah it just made her feel really awful about a costume that she'd spent so much time working on :/
I think the touching when taking a picture is a huge must! I cosplayed as Miku Hatsune at London MCM last year, and two older guys asked if they could take a photo with me, which I said was perfectly fine! But, being fifteen years old, I felt extremely uncomfortable when one of them put their arm round my waist. I felt I couldn't say anything out of embarrassment (plus, they were pretty much twice my height). Asking if you can touch the cosplayer is literally the first thing you have to do before taking a photo!
Apply DOUBLE caution when dealing with kids in costumes. Be sure to ask their parents, and remember--to a kid, you're still a stranger, and need to filter through parents.
My general rule is I don't take pictures of kids, I just tell them that they are awesome, if they are dressed as a superhero I will call them by their superhero name, tell the parents their kids are adorable and awesome and move on. I will take pictures if it is a full family cosplay or if the patent or kid asks if I want a picture
Miradori I never take pictures OF kids, but I work at a child care and love kids, so sometimes a kid's costume is too cute for me not to get a picture WITH them. I always make sure to ask the parents first if I can take a picture with them, AND ask the kid too. Sometimes the parents are fine with it, but the kid might not want to.
Don't just take a pic without asking. So, no walking up and down the costume contest line just snapping candid pics (Happened to me and my friends this weekend). Also, don't compare other people's costumes negatively. This past weekend I was cosplaying Poison Ivy and this one guy told me I was the best cosplay of her he'd seen... and then went on to say that all the other girls were bad because they were "dressing provocatively" and that they should all dress like me. No. Everyone has their own interpretation and honestly just because a cosplayer shows more skin or something (because one person they were referencing literally was only showing their arms, and their cosplay was on point!), that doesn't mean their cosplay is bad. Leave the compliment as a compliment, don't compare cosplayers, that creates unnecessary competition.
What's wrong with candid pictures? (Note: I make a distinction between creepshots and candids.) I apologize in advance if you disagree, but I consider myself an amateur street photographer, and candid photos often make for really great photos, especially if you capture a moment of unstaged human interaction in context with the surroundings. This is true on the street, but it's especially true at an event like a concert, wedding, or, yes, a convention. Now, if the would-be photographer didn't care about the context and was just trying to take a picture of your costume without asking, then yeah, that's inappropriate, not only because you didn't give consent, but also because most of those kinds of photos tend to suck anyway.
I meant candid as in, maybe the cosplayer has a pose that they worked hard to perfect, or they like to stay in character when the people ask for a picture, or (in one of the cases at the con I was just at) taking pics of the disney characters meeting children. You should definitely ask the parents' permission in that case. But mainly, we had been standing in line for 3+ hours (insanity!) for this costume contest and this dude, instead of getting a good seat in the ballroom, he just decided to walk down the line snapping pictures without actually saying "Hey, I'd like your picture if that's ok." of everyone. He was taking pictures, just to take pictures. There was a photographer with the couple in front of my friend and I who was just like "Geez, at least I ask if I can get a picture."
Antenox As a cosplayer, if you want a picture of me in my costume, I have worked on poses and facial expressions that work with said costume. Often for weeks. Its a matter of you are taking a picture of someone's art with the art in an unfinished state. I 100% get that with weddings and events like that that candid shots can often be the best shot. And if you are hanging out with a bunch of friends who are cosplayers, by all means, take candid shots of your friends or of the atmosphere of the con. But be aware, if you take a candid shot of a cosplayer, and they notice you after the fact, it is likely they will think you are a creeper and walk quickly away. I have volunteered with anime conventions in a cosplayer gathering department, and I have to call multiple photographers out for being creepy when taking candid shots and not asking for permission (one excuse was from a much older male photographer taking the photo of an underage girl with the excuse of 'but she has such beautiful eyes' for the photo he took without her permission or knowledge) I know not every one like that is a creeper, but cosplayers often err on the cautious side of things with that. So just keep that in mind
You are in a public space with cameras all around. You are there to be viewed. Any one can snap a photo of you regardless of whether or not you are ready for it. You are in public in plain sight. As far as the law is concerned you are free game. Besides the majority of the photos taken of people in costume are by people shooting them from afar or as a they walk by some one posing. However civility should be the rule. While snapping a photo candidly or not is perfectly acceptable under normal circumstances, taking them when the subject is in a vulnerable situation is unkind, uncivil, and plain rude. Restroom photos, or other such places were privacy is expected is more than uncivil, and crosses into legal issues.
i had a girl almost tackle me just to get a hug. dont get me wrong i love hugs (cant stand handshakes makes me feel awkward) but that really surprised me. i was getting in line for an autograph signing with me brother when all of a sudden i hear a girl yell my characters names. i go to turn around to see who it is and i get slammed into by this young lady squealing about wanting a hug. i dont mind giving people hugs when asked but basically tackling an unaware person is a no go. my poor older brother was shocked and was asking me if i was ok. which i was, i was just more concerned about my prop at that point(which was a 4ft bass guitar).
At the last Con I was cosplaying as Jinx and a friend was Ekko from League of Legends. I had walked around on high heels (because I try to hide how small I am) two days in a row and then it started to rain and everything was a chaos because they closed all other entries except for the main one so it was crowded as hell. When we finally got inside, we were soaked, freezing, awfully tired and just sitting down on the ground at the side of the hallway and still people wanted to take pictures of us so we had to get up, fix our costumes, get a good hold of our weapons (Ekko didn't even have his because he wasn't allowed to take it inside) and posed with hurting feet. Some may think it was rude to ask us that moment but I really didn't care that much. Was I tired and cold? -Yes of course but I'm allways so happy if people want to take a picture that I don't really care to get up. BUT that doesn't count for everyone! Even I wait and come back later when I see a Cosplayer I want to take a photo of/with sitting and eating or talking to someone. So be nice, people!
sometimes i go up to ask for a picture and just as i tap their shoulder/arm the nerves kick in and i'm like "c-ca-can i-i-i have a-a pic-tur-e wi-with you???)
FalcorTheFuckDragon that was defiantly me at my first con,I saw a bunch of cosplayers of my fave anime and I was alone at the time and was 14 so I walked up behind a teutonic knight prussia cosplayer and tapped their shoulder and really shyly asked if I could have a picture and they were really nice and everyone in their group was kind and I got some pics with them, those were the only pics I got with cosplayers but I love the con and meeting them and was proud with myself in being able to ask for a pic in the first place
Don't judge someone if they didn't make their cosplay because you have no idea what that person has gone through. I once had some lady started lecturing me on how "a grown woman like me should know how to sew and being lazy won't help me and blah blah blah". I was 13 and had just finished exams…
Don't treat the cosplayer like he/she is exactly the character. For example, When I used to cosplay Russia It would drive me insane when Belarus cosplayers would hold me in a death lock. I had a friend who was a Belarus cosplayer and she hated it when Russia cosplayers would run away from her screaming. I had another friend who was an America cosplayer and she hated it when everybody would touch her stomach area to feel for a muffin top. Although those things are cannon in the Anime, it just comes off as obnoxious in real life.
Unfortunate stories of cosplayers in Hetalia. I remember seeing a France cosplayer getting all sexual with an England cosplayer. It was so awkward to watch tbh
+Kaito Shion That's great and all but please don't treat OTHERS like they are the characters just because you like it. You might like it but others don't.
Awesome Homo That would be extremely awkward. Unless those two cosplayers had some kind of relationship out side of Hetalia, that France cosplayer needs to keep his/her sex to themselves.
Jessie Fox I feel you man- With my Japan cosplay people would always get really close to me to see if I would react with his whole 'personal space' shit.
Lucky enough the con I went to had a hide-out for cosplayers who aren't feeling like roaming the convention grounds. It was behind the stage, and tons of cosplayers were sitting down playing with their phones or listening to music. Looks like they're all hiding owo
Cosplay conventions are the one place I'm not scared to ask for pictures. No cosplayer is gonna be like "No, you can't take a picture with me" also, you can't get upset if someone greets you with the name of the person you're cosplaying. They don't know your name. Sometimes, you need to ask to do certain things "Can I hug you?" "Can I pick you up for a picture?" But, it's not that big of a deal -I had someone ask if they could put their hand on my shoulder when -*-I-*- asked for a picture with them, I thought that was kinda funny-
I was dressed as Aqua from Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep (and to put it in perspective, I am 5' 11" and was in heels) and this tiny adorable guy came up to me a stuttered, asking if he could have a picture, and was fumbling with his camera. It made me so happy! I felt like he liked my cosplay enough to get the courage to ask and was super stoked. Something similar happened when I had done the Kpop panel of my local con last year and was dressed as Ikon from the Dumb and Dumber MV, and no one recognized my cosplay which was okay, I understood it wasn't very popular but then this girl came up and tapped on my shoulder and was like "Can I have your picture? I love Ikon" and I was like "AAAH YESSS YOU CAN " XD
There's some great advice here; Hal Rudnick could learn a thing or two from this. But one warning to Cosplayers: Remember that if you are in a public place that does not have photography restrictions posted, strangers can take your picture at any time, no matter what you are doing. Whether you are standing, sitting, eating, kissing, or throwing up. They unfortunately do not need your permission (unless they intend to use the picture for business purposes.) Fortunately there are exceptions. Restrooms, locker rooms, changing rooms, and the like are protected under federal law. Also - though it may be hard to prove when in public - it's also illegal to photograph strangers with the intent on committing a lewd or illegal act with said pictures.
All of what you said is correct, but just because something is legal doesn't mean it isn't rude. This is more of a etiquette guide for how to politely and comfortably interact with cosplayers
Oh, yeah, not arguing that. Mostly just lamenting the fact that the people who need a good dose of etiquette won't have the sense to view and heed stuff like this video. I've had Cosplay friends for like 20 years; to me the fandom world is a better place because of their energy and creativity.
I don't know about other people but this is a HUGE no no for me; If a cosplayer is cosplaying a character with large breasts, muscles, short skirts, or their ass showing never walk over to them and grope them, start touching them, or take panty shots! I was doing a Ukraine from Hetalia cosplay once and a random girl ran up to me, squeezed my breasts and ran. Another time, I was just chatting with a group of people when one girl cosplaying Ryuko from Kill La Kill started talking about this really creepy guy following girls in skirts or booty shorts and taking panty shots or booty pics without them knowing. There are so many stories I can tell about things like this, people just need to respect others and if they give consent to the photos or allow you to touch them, then and only then should you do it.
+Cayla Rowland exactly you should only observe like a closet perve from a distance and hope for a wind of luck just like the characters in the shows :P
I have a tip for what you should not do. First off, remember that the cosplayers are still people underneath the costumes. That means that if you see a cosplayer, you should not treat them like their actual character. Sometimes the cosplayer does go the extra mile and will get into character but more often then not, they will just be wearing the costume just to cosplay and get their picture taken and such. For example, if you see an Inuyasha cosplay; do not walk up to them, push them to the ground, and say, "Sit boy." It could ruin their costume and get that person very angry.
This tip also goes for people who are cosplaying as well. As mentioned above, sometimes cosplayers go that extra mile and try to get into character. Personally, I think nothing is wrong with that but try not to get to aggressive with the character. For example, If you cosplaying as a "Psycho" from Borderlands/ BL2, do not go around the convention throwing your axes at people. Instead try running up to someone, say a Psycho signature line, do a psychotic laugh, and run away. Most of their phrases are not offensive but funny, the person will be taken by surprise and might be confused, and you are still getting into character w/o hurting anyone or ruining any costumes
This is a great video. As an older con-goer I am often way too nervous to ask for pictures, especially from younger cosplayers as I do not want to be "that creepy old guy" even though my intentions are always out of respect. As I will be cosplaying for myself for the first time this fan expo, I know I am totally cool with anyone approaching me, but I never want to assume other are as comfortable. Thanks for your insight
I know this is late but you most likely won't be thought of as a creep by asking a younger cosplayer for their picture just as long as you don't don't touch them in ways they don't like (like I'm not really comfortable with people putting their arm around my middle waist and lower because I'm ticklish on the middle wait and any lower just because I think it's weird) but just respect them when asking for pictures. I mean I wouldn't be creeped out by you if you ask me for picture and I'm 15
"Don't ask them for a photo when they are eating or sitting down" This, so much. I cannot tell you how upsetting it is when I am eating to have someone come up to me and snap a picture. Thank you, Sachie, for this. You have made an excellent vlog!
my biggest pet peeve is when people TOUCH WITHOUT ASKING!! how hard is it to understand to keep your hands to yourself? Also, if you ask a cosplayer for a hug/highfive/pic or w/e and they say no, RESPECT THAT! Dont badger them about it and keep asking!
Hey! I have been doing it right! Whenever I see a cosplayer portraying a character I love ( The Last Airbender, Legend of Korra, DC Comics, Disney ) I have always praised their costume and then asked for a photo. I also thank them and if they don't appear to be too busy I ask them about their costume's construction. Honestly, I never thought about how much work goes into their costumes until I watched Heroes of Cosplay and I wish I had half the talent most cosplayers have.
Great video. One of the things that really gets me mad at conventions are the crowded aisles with people taking photos of cosplayers. I bet cosplayers also feel unconfortable with this situation but don't know exactly how to answer to the ones holding the camera (or just don't care about the others, let's be realistic). But the ones that take the pictures could consider the ones around in this situation. Thanks for another great video and keep up with the good work. By the way, I must say once again: you have lovely eyes. =)
Thank you for the do not touch without permission tip. While I'm hoping I'll be able to take enough time with my future cosplays to make them not super fragile, I also happen to have hypersensitivity due to a disability and some forms of physical contact can be almost painful for me, especially in a loud and crowded environment like a con. It's waaaay less awkward to tell somebody that they can't put their arm around me than it is to explain why I look uncomfortable in the picture.
I disagree with not asking cosplayers for pictures in the merch room, which you referred to as the dealers room. At Comic Con just about everywhere you go someone will want your picture, and as a fellow Cosplayer, I dont mind at all being asked in that area, nor did anyone else seem to mind. People are just as likely and willing to pose for photos in that area as they are anywhere else, and I think we all expect that. We are prepared. I also disagree with not asking for a picture when someone is sitting down/resting/eating. There is absolutely nothing wrong with ASKING. Some people wont want to be photographed but some will get up and pose for you happily.
I would recommend not bring large cosplays and large props into smaller dealer halls/artist alleys if you are in a medium or small sized conventions, sometimes you can hurt people (like how my friend had some wings on her and kept hitting myself or people around her in the face and eyes), or you can damage the cosplay or the merchandise of the vendor or artist. You should always be aware of how big your cosplay is and how crowded areas can be at certain times. You could bring a cosplay handler to help you move about and help protect your cosplay, I sometimes am a handler so I make sure cosplayers are getting water, food, and other things to help get through the day.
I think it all boils down to one simple concept...respect them as a person. Don't creep, don't touch without permission, don't interrupt their meals or conversations with others, be polite, etc. Just simply show them respect.
I was at anime expo last year, 2014, and I was in my Lucy Heartfilia cosplay, at the fairy tail gathering. So we were doing a shipping picture with my character and another one. This guy in the other cosplay politely asked if they can pick me up for the picture. I didn't mind so I said yes. I really appreciated him asking and I found it cool. His cosplay was awesome too BTW
I for one don't care if you ask for a picture while I'm resting. At my last con I spent most of my day sitting outside resting and I loved it when people came up and asked for photos. I agree with you on the point of don't ask when were obviously rushing though. A lot of cosplayers have competitions to get to.
Another tip: DO NOT TRY TO TAKE A PANTIE SHOT/LOW ANGLE WITHOUT THE COSPLAYER'S CONSENT Okay that's just not appropriate, it happened to me at AX when I cosplayed as wedding dress version of Nico Yazawa, a photographer took pictures of me in low angle and it made extremely uncomfortable even though I had bloomers/pumpkin shorts under my skirt but still it's not a very nice feeling :/
If they are comfortable with it they might say yes, but a majority would say "no you can't take a picture of my panties" and that's what would be considered normal, but some cosplayers might say yes (I know I would if asked politely) so you don't really know unless you ask
Always be kind and polite to Cosplayers. If the cosplayer is an attractive woman appreciation of her outfit selection should boost her confidence, not make her uncomfortable. Always think, "How would I act if this was my daughter?" Cosplay is awesome, we should all do what we can to help each other out. Reinforce confidence!
Definite agreement on the "Please don't when I'm eating or resting" point . We've had that happen before and just respond with a polite "Can you wait a few minutes?" More often than not, the person will hang around at another table nearby and when we're ready to go again and get dressed, we can wave them over. That way we can pose properly and make sure they get a good picture. I know if I'm taking photos I don't want a photo of a character mid-bite...
On the topic of asking for permission to put your arm around somebody when taking a picture. When I cosplayed for the first time I was Canada from Hetalia and I got to go to a meetup for hetalia cosplayers and at this meet up they where doing photoshoots and I went up when it was canada and russia's turn to go forward and get photos taken. The sweetest Russia cosplayer came to me and asked if I was comfortable with hugs and a kiss in photos. I cannot tell you how comforting it was to have somebody ask me that instead of just coming in for a kiss or hug. We did pose for a little kiss and hugs but thanks to that person I can say that I don't have a con horror story haha so I cannot stress enough how crucial it is to ask permission to hug or kiss a cosplayer.
Great vlog, Sachie! Asking for business cards or cosplay cards is such a great way to meet folk and keep track of their projects. Also "Don't hover hand. Please, please." Fantastic.
I recently went to Phoenix comic con and cosplayed as Fran from Final Fantasy 12 I didnt think anyone would really know who I was. Anyway I got a lot of photos taken. I remember sitting and resting and had a guy come up and ask for a photo. He apologized when he realized I was about to eat. I noticed even when I was eating people would ask It doesnt bother me much if they ask while I'm eating as long as they are polite about it..I would say be polite if you are going to ask while a cosplayer is eating and be willing to wait for them to finish. I had people take photos of me sitting down because I was resting and my feet hurt they were all understanding though so I guess I got lucky lmao .
As a cosplayer myself I don't mind having my picture taken, but when it comes to people touching me in photos I have an issue with it just because I don't like people touching me. Shoulder to shoulder is fine but I agree with you. ASK BEFORE TOUCHING! I also know that I love having people take photos of me since I try to do less common anime's and my fiance and I like to do couple cosplays. At my convention I go to the dealers room has some pretty good light so pics turn out OK.
One time I was at con taking a picture of how many people there were at the con and this amazing cosplay group noticed and they asked if I wanted a picture it was so amazing cus I didint have to ask! (so of course I said yes I would love to take a picture)
I always wondered about how to approach this situation, even though my social phobia/agoraphobia means I'll likely never get to go to a convention. Thank you for the advice!
Good stuff to know. Let's face it, a lot of con-goers don't have the best social awareness. Which is a good thing about cons, gets them to be social cause someone at the con is going to have the same interests! I've gone to cons that have areas specifically for cosplay posing. They urge people to take pictures only in those areas. Of course people will take pictures in other areas as well, I mean, they can't stop it really. Using the dealers hall/room example, how would a cosplayer feel if someone came up to them and asked them if they could have a picture of them once they were done in the dealer's hall/room?
To add onto the dealers room bit: Don't stop in the middle of a hallway. If you really want to take a photo of someones costume move to the side or out of the main flow of foot traffic. This is a major problem with a lot of cons.
One I've experienced personally was someone taking a photo of me from a distance without any prior permission (while I was sitting down because I wasn't feeling well, of which was actually very obvious). While my friend was making sure I was ok, the photographer made eye contact with me smiled after he took his un-consensual photo and quickly scampered away. DO NOT do this to cosplayers. ALWAYS ask! Unless a cosplayer is posing and giving permission to a group of people don't just take photos without their prior consent. it can be very rude and make cosplayers feel very uncomfortable.
I agree with the dealer's room one. At the last con I was getting stopped for soooo many photos and I felt really bad because I hate causing traffic. And I couldn't even get passed the first four booths without getting constantly stopped. I was frustrated because I wanted to actually shop and unfortunately couldn't. So I left the dealer's room and missed out on it the entire con. (The rest of the con I had other events to perform in.)
I have to say you speak very well, I'm French so I meet some difficulties to understand spoken English but it was pretty easy with you, I had to comment ! :) Your tips are really nice and not so obvious for everyone so thank you for sharing this video !
Actual thing that happened to me at the last SD Comic-Con: *me cosplaying as Gangplank from League of Legends, putting my stuff down against a wall and SLOWLY, feet achingly, sitting next to it* The couple nearby watches me put down my stuff and sit on the floor. Only THEN does the girl ask for a photo with me. I smile at her, hiding my pain; but, a nearby cosplayer that I don't know says to her, "Are you kidding me? He's just starting to rest and you wait until he completely sits down on the floor to ask him?" I obliged anyway but thanked my fellow cosplayer when they were out of earshot.
Next year i am going to oz comic con in brisbane and i will cosplaying as princess ariel from the little mermaid if i am sitting down i probally won't mind getting asked for a photo since i am in no rush to do anything but if i am eating i might say no or just ask them to give me a second to finish up and with being in character i might do that when i get photos with little kids just to make them smile cause me personally nothing makes my day more than seeing a little kid or baby smile
I have one! Please please PLEASE avoid surprise tackle hugging or "Glomping" cosplayers (including fursuiters and such)! I along with many others have gotten really hurt or the wind knocked out of them. It sucks and sometimes ruins the day.
Yeah! Cause I mean if you ask me for a glomp if I'm in a costume that is okay with it I will look to see if I would be able to hold them or able to hold me and if I can hold them (not likely) they can glomp me but if they could hold me I would glomp them and I would have us a more open area.
Definitely introduce yourself to someone as you, and not your character. I went to a few meetups at one con and everyone kind of had a rule that you would give your real name and a normal introduction, but could act in character after all that happened. Seriously, it's much less awkward! I was cosplaying America once, and met a very nice 2p! England cosplayer. I introduced myself first with my name, and then we went on to being in character, running around, getting married, and all that fun stuff. Remember, these are PEOPLE, they are dressed as the character, but they are still very real people.
i do get a little annoyed when im asked to take a photo when im sitting down/resting/eating etc but its okay if its a few people but when more come it does get tiring.. usually at cons i dont get to eat till after its over or i quickly leave the con when there are less attendees around to go get lunch and then return but people do still ask for photos outside of the con but its a bearable amount compared to being inside.
I was at an anime convention about a month ago and I had SOOO many people ask for a photo while I was in the dealers room. It was mainly younger kids coming up that wanted pictures with me dressed as Mirajane so I couldn't get angry. The worst had to be when we took a break around lunch time and I sat down to rest my feet and drink some water. There was a woman who came up to me and took a picture while I was drinking then she walked off without a word. What do you even do with a picture of a cosplayer drinking water? Everyone in my group just laughed about it, but it was still odd and rude.
to summariza most of the tipps here (plus comments).just follow common knowlegde about "how to talk with someone" and " do not do illegal stuff,especially regarding to harrasment and picture taking "
I think a big no no is if you're cosplaying a character, say naruto, and see a sakura or sasuke cosplayer, do NOT asume you can act like they are the character and attack them with hugs or what ever. The cosplayer might not be comfortable with strangers coming up and treating you like your character. Another big no is doing the oposit treatment, if the person is cosplaying a evil character, dont just go up to them and start threatening the cosplayer or act just cause youre cosplaying the good guy. There are a lot of cosplayer who isnt into acting out their character 24/7
Quick question because this has happened to me a lot. How do you sit down and rest when for instance you have some hard cardboard armor on? Follow up question how should o reply to people wanting to put on different parts of armor like the helmet which is often in a hard to get to spot
Haha im mostly not worried about my parts moving or breaking, But rather more worried about the persons hand and or arms during those moments. Wokring in metal has it's hazards and getting stuck with fingers between moving armour plates is more common then most think
A lot of these issues can be navigated sensibly if people would just ASK before ACTING. >_< If I were at a con, I'd want to have a good experience, but I'd want the people I met there to have a good experience too! People could stand to be a _little_ less self-involved.
Do: ask if you'd like a picture with the cosplayer in a particular pose! A lot of us spend plenty of time recreating shots for photographers so we've got good knowledge of poses that make a good shot. Rather than just stand there like a lemon next to your desired subject, it's far better to have some interaction, so discuss it with us and we'll help you get the best and most memorable shot we can!
Yes ASK FIRST for the arm thing! I had this guy ask to take a photo of my costume in my second year of cosplaying so I was really awkward and not yet totally comfortable and he did this weird hover arm thing and I'm like 11 or 12 so I was so uncomfortable.
I had a really funny experience one time. I was Cosplaying as Fem!Mihawk and was on the phone trying to find a friend when I see someone awkwardly taking tiny trot steps toward me then back and forward again. She disappears and I feel kinda bad she couldn't get my picture but when I end my call she pops up out of nowhere on the other side of me and excitedly asks for my picture XD
At the last convention I went to I had someone ask for a picture after just watching me throw up because I couldn't make it to the bathroom in time... it was bizarre to say the least, they were persistent too and hung around whilst a fellow cosplayer fetched me paper towels and some water....
Also, don't compare cosplays or point out mistakes. For example i went to a comicon dresses like Aqua for Kingdom Hearts and someone went up to be and told me that they just saw someone else with a better cosplay of her then what i had. This person continued to point out mistakes like the pink straps i sewed onto my outfit was darker then in the game and the blue wig wasn't shiny enough. They told me i was forgetting a spike in the boot and i was forgetting a clip accessory. This was a homemade cosplay and my first cosplay that i sewed myself. Chances are if you point out that they are missing something in someone else's cosplay, they already know and pointing it out is just going to make it worse.
I usualy get their atention by calling them and show them my camera, then send them a message with my eyes "photo?" and they usualy respond with their look "hella photo".
One thing with con is when taking pictures with people I notice that not many pictures are taken with my younger generation or it was just me not being popular in general but I got like five pictures (I'm 14 btw) and only one pic was asked from me, the other four I got with some hetalia cosplayers. but some people find it creepy taking pictures with younger children who are cosplaying and that's mainly because they are you going and their parents may not agree with it and that's one thing that I'd hate to see at con. I don't want to walk around and spot a big tall gentlemen asking a 10 year old in squid girl cosplay for a picture because that is genuinely creepy as. I was really grateful to get asked for a picture and she was a cool kid, she was more brave in asking for a pic than me asking others for pics so XD Kinda embarrassed. being young is kinda limiting the amount of people asking for pictures so I don't want anyone just to get the ideas that I don't want my picture taken or to be filmed, I'm fine with it as long as they ask.
Dealing with people who want to take your picture when you're in a hurry - Jamie Hyneman of Mythbusters fame, has a wonderful, hilarious solution, which he employed at SDCC. As he was bustling by, he would answer yes to the request, but keep on going. One enterprising team walked along with him while the camera person managed to scamper ahead enough to get the pic. *Priceless!* There's video footage somewhere out there.
Yeahh I totally agree with this. As a lot of people have mentioned, don't gloop a cosplayer out of nowhere. One time I cosplayer Kagamine Rin and a Kagamine Len glommed me on some stairs, I fell back onto said stairs and really bruised my back along with my headphones breaking and this was just an hour or so after arriving to the con. Not fun--
I was at a con yesterday and this kid literally jumped onto my back with like no warning. He was like twelve and I wasn’t mad at him, but it scared me omg!
A) If a cosplayer is sitting and resting in a lounge area, would you say it's a good time to strike up a conversation about their cosplay and fandoms and so on? Or is it better to just compliment them and try to catch them later? B) If they are resting, you've talked for a while, and you still want a picture, should you say "I'd really like to get a picture of your cosplay, but you seem like you need a rest. Is there someplace I can catch you later for one?" Like someone said, non-cosplayers have places to be as well, so it's about maximizing both people's experiences.
It's a matter of reading the situation. With cons, people like to have fun and make friends! So if the are sitting and not doing something like eating, or talking with another friend, or having headphones in (things that tend to read as 'i want some alone quiet time right now') then by all means, stop, compliment their costume, ask if the seat next to them is taken and start a conversation with them about the make of their costume. Also all of b is correct, yes, do all of that.
I totally agree. Most of the time when I'm cosplaying and sitting down, it's because I'm wearing heels and my feet need a break, but I'm perfectly happy to talk to someone about my costume, or stand up for a quick picture. However, if I really need a break from everything, I'll normally pull out my tablet or my phone, get a little more comfortable, and avoid looking at people walking past me, to kinda indicate that I want to be left alone for a bit. I'd say if you sit next to someone and they engage in a good conversation, go ahead and as if you can get a quick photo, they'll probably say yes.
I know I didn't end up talking to anyone... I was so shy lmao... But I might try to drag my friends along next time I go to a con... you should try to! (If your scared they'll think you weird, say it's a gathering event!)
I think I did the hover hand thing during a celeb photo op. Ooops! It was my first con and my first photo op the whole picture process happened so fast. I guess I never thought about it I naturally went for the arm around thing then a thought hit me "they probably don't want to be touched." Pic was already taken and I was out of the room as soon as the thought crossed my mind. When I went to pick up the pic I saw that she had returned the hover hand since both of our hands are behind our backs and our hands are not visible it is not noticeable. I am kind of embarrassed now after seeing this video.
When I went to AX i had to turn down people for a picture while I was sitting and resting. I had to wear heels for the con and long sleeves and pants. It was so hot. I even had a lot of my props off and people asked. I felt so bad :'(
This probably late but my first cosplay is going to be Canada from hetalia, I already have glasses and a wig coming and such but any hetalians here, how will people react to me? I’m a pretty shy person so I can relate to Canada plus I really like the character but, I don’t know how people will act around me, will they just ignore me on purpose because I’m Canada or....?
My thing always asking for photo with cosplayer is one if really hot outside is did wear enough right guard and two if put your arm around there waist for photo are my hands cold ass hell
Once when I was working at a con and cosplaying Ahri (with giant tails T.T) I finally had a lunch break but every time I tried to pick up my food someone would ask for a picture and in the end my friend had to hide me so I could eat xD
Once I was cosplaying seshomaru and a little girl ran up and glomped me from the front. The only problem was that I had armor on with spikes. Luckily they were foam but felt bad that she got stabbed by spikes :/
I had a cosplayer seem rather annoyed with me when I asked her about her movement gear (attack on titan). It looked really good especally from a distance, but when I came up and said, " Wow, very nice gear, what did you make it out of?" I got a really weird look before all I was told was a simple "foam board" answer. So I guess not all Cosplay likes talking about their props or costume...
Como curiosidad, cuando tomó una foto de un cosplayer suelo ser yo quien le da una tarjeta con la dirección de mi blog para que pueda ver allí la foto. Curiously, when I take a photo of a cosplayer I'm usually the one who gives the card with the address of my blog so the cosplayer can see the picture there.
i'm new to cosplay and so far it's very interesting. i've made costumes and was planning to wear them at a con this year but since it would be my first time cosplaying would i still need a cosplay card?
Of course not! I cosplay all the time and have yet to create a cosplay card. Usually if people ask if they can contact me, I refer them to my social media accounts (DeviantArt, Tumblr, TH-cam, etc.). If you need anymore help don't be afraid to ask anyone ^^'.
Last Comic-Con I had a shy guy follow me around for like minutes (without me realising) Cause he was to shy to ask for a photo. No need to be shy. We are Fandom Family :)
You should make a video about staying in character. Like when it's appropriate to break character, and when you should and should not be in character.
I agree with this
YESSS. 100% agreement
Yess!! Definitely a great idea. ;)
For me, when I'm in character (in a non talking cosplay when I'm in full suit )
The only time I "break" character is if 1. I'm buying something
2. Talking to my friends/group
3. if I wanna take a picture of someone else
Don't judge a cosplayer on whether or not they bought or made there cosplay. It's just stupid. Some people can't sew well enough to make a cosplay (for example) and some people don't have enough money to buy cosplay (again, example). People can cosplay how ever they like.
but I feel like making your cosplays you still need lots of money to buy fabric and all the things you need you might even spend as much money as you would buying it
True. How many cosplayers have spent $100 or more dollars just to make a certain cosplay outfit. Most of the time you can find a cosplay costume online and spend the same amount of money that it would to make your own cosplay costume if you could.
A good tip is to ask "Where did you get your cosplay items?" so that those who did make their costume are able to tell you pieces they worked on themselves and those who bought their cosplay don't feel embarrassed on not knowing what material their costume is made out of, i've been in each boat! Either way, have a blast! ;u;
rosybritain ive made cosplays and had people ask what fabric i used anything besides pleather im just like "the fabric that looked nice in the store?" haha
How to approach cosplayer: don't be fucking creepy.
Exactly what I was thinking
Also, try, just TRY not to be a misogynistic creepazoid and assume because a cosplayer is wearing a revealing costume, that you're allowed to make gross comments on their body or touch them.
yeah it can really ruin someone's day if that happens! i had a friend who once cosplayed as chat noir from miraculous ladybug, and the costume involves a fairly skintight black bodysuit - since the character is meant to be a young-ish teenager, it wasnt sexualised at all and yet she had loads of creepy comments about how she probably bought it from a fetish/bondage website and yeah it just made her feel really awful about a costume that she'd spent so much time working on :/
I think the touching when taking a picture is a huge must! I cosplayed as Miku Hatsune at London MCM last year, and two older guys asked if they could take a photo with me, which I said was perfectly fine! But, being fifteen years old, I felt extremely uncomfortable when one of them put their arm round my waist. I felt I couldn't say anything out of embarrassment (plus, they were pretty much twice my height). Asking if you can touch the cosplayer is literally the first thing you have to do before taking a photo!
Apply DOUBLE caution when dealing with kids in costumes. Be sure to ask their parents, and remember--to a kid, you're still a stranger, and need to filter through parents.
My general rule is I don't take pictures of kids, I just tell them that they are awesome, if they are dressed as a superhero I will call them by their superhero name, tell the parents their kids are adorable and awesome and move on. I will take pictures if it is a full family cosplay or if the patent or kid asks if I want a picture
That's a pretty good practice I think.
Miradori I never take pictures OF kids, but I work at a child care and love kids, so sometimes a kid's costume is too cute for me not to get a picture WITH them. I always make sure to ask the parents first if I can take a picture with them, AND ask the kid too. Sometimes the parents are fine with it, but the kid might not want to.
Don't just take a pic without asking. So, no walking up and down the costume contest line just snapping candid pics (Happened to me and my friends this weekend). Also, don't compare other people's costumes negatively. This past weekend I was cosplaying Poison Ivy and this one guy told me I was the best cosplay of her he'd seen... and then went on to say that all the other girls were bad because they were "dressing provocatively" and that they should all dress like me. No. Everyone has their own interpretation and honestly just because a cosplayer shows more skin or something (because one person they were referencing literally was only showing their arms, and their cosplay was on point!), that doesn't mean their cosplay is bad. Leave the compliment as a compliment, don't compare cosplayers, that creates unnecessary competition.
What's wrong with candid pictures? (Note: I make a distinction between creepshots and candids.)
I apologize in advance if you disagree, but I consider myself an amateur street photographer, and candid photos often make for really great photos, especially if you capture a moment of unstaged human interaction in context with the surroundings. This is true on the street, but it's especially true at an event like a concert, wedding, or, yes, a convention.
Now, if the would-be photographer didn't care about the context and was just trying to take a picture of your costume without asking, then yeah, that's inappropriate, not only because you didn't give consent, but also because most of those kinds of photos tend to suck anyway.
I meant candid as in, maybe the cosplayer has a pose that they worked hard to perfect, or they like to stay in character when the people ask for a picture, or (in one of the cases at the con I was just at) taking pics of the disney characters meeting children. You should definitely ask the parents' permission in that case. But mainly, we had been standing in line for 3+ hours (insanity!) for this costume contest and this dude, instead of getting a good seat in the ballroom, he just decided to walk down the line snapping pictures without actually saying "Hey, I'd like your picture if that's ok." of everyone. He was taking pictures, just to take pictures. There was a photographer with the couple in front of my friend and I who was just like "Geez, at least I ask if I can get a picture."
Antenox As a cosplayer, if you want a picture of me in my costume, I have worked on poses and facial expressions that work with said costume. Often for weeks. Its a matter of you are taking a picture of someone's art with the art in an unfinished state. I 100% get that with weddings and events like that that candid shots can often be the best shot. And if you are hanging out with a bunch of friends who are cosplayers, by all means, take candid shots of your friends or of the atmosphere of the con. But be aware, if you take a candid shot of a cosplayer, and they notice you after the fact, it is likely they will think you are a creeper and walk quickly away. I have volunteered with anime conventions in a cosplayer gathering department, and I have to call multiple photographers out for being creepy when taking candid shots and not asking for permission (one excuse was from a much older male photographer taking the photo of an underage girl with the excuse of 'but she has such beautiful eyes' for the photo he took without her permission or knowledge) I know not every one like that is a creeper, but cosplayers often err on the cautious side of things with that. So just keep that in mind
You are in a public space with cameras all around. You are there to be viewed. Any one can snap a photo of you regardless of whether or not you are ready for it. You are in public in plain sight. As far as the law is concerned you are free game. Besides the majority of the photos taken of people in costume are by people shooting them from afar or as a they walk by some one posing.
However civility should be the rule. While snapping a photo candidly or not is perfectly acceptable under normal circumstances, taking them when the subject is in a vulnerable situation is unkind, uncivil, and plain rude.
Restroom photos, or other such places were privacy is expected is more than uncivil, and crosses into legal issues.
i had a girl almost tackle me just to get a hug. dont get me wrong i love hugs (cant stand handshakes makes me feel awkward) but that really surprised me. i was getting in line for an autograph signing with me brother when all of a sudden i hear a girl yell my characters names. i go to turn around to see who it is and i get slammed into by this young lady squealing about wanting a hug. i dont mind giving people hugs when asked but basically tackling an unaware person is a no go. my poor older brother was shocked and was asking me if i was ok. which i was, i was just more concerned about my prop at that point(which was a 4ft bass guitar).
At the last Con I was cosplaying as Jinx and a friend was Ekko from League of Legends. I had walked around on high heels (because I try to hide how small I am) two days in a row and then it started to rain and everything was a chaos because they closed all other entries except for the main one so it was crowded as hell. When we finally got inside, we were soaked, freezing, awfully tired and just sitting down on the ground at the side of the hallway and still people wanted to take pictures of us so we had to get up, fix our costumes, get a good hold of our weapons (Ekko didn't even have his because he wasn't allowed to take it inside) and posed with hurting feet. Some may think it was rude to ask us that moment but I really didn't care that much. Was I tired and cold? -Yes of course but I'm allways so happy if people want to take a picture that I don't really care to get up.
BUT that doesn't count for everyone! Even I wait and come back later when I see a Cosplayer I want to take a photo of/with sitting and eating or talking to someone. So be nice, people!
Sachie explains the Do's and Don't's of approaching Cosplayers at conventions: bit.ly/1oa2IRO
Do you have a favorite cosplayer or cosplay group?
Riddle is one of my personal favorites.
Frankly, if "You look awesome!" and "got time for a picture?" don't work, they aren't worth _my_ time. I am at a con, after all.
Boggles my mind people need an instruction guide.
It depends on whether you are Bart Simpson.
What is this
sometimes i go up to ask for a picture and just as i tap their shoulder/arm the nerves kick in and i'm like "c-ca-can i-i-i have a-a pic-tur-e wi-with you???)
Same!! ;-;
Shadow_Wolf I did that for my first con, luckily I warmed up soon after and there I was snapping random pics with cosplayers and running around xD
+Shadow_Wolf Thanks for this now i know when people come up to me talking like that, Ill make it my duty to make them feel welcomed
FalcorTheFuckDragon that was defiantly me at my first con,I saw a bunch of cosplayers of my fave anime and I was alone at the time and was 14 so I walked up behind a teutonic knight prussia cosplayer and tapped their shoulder and really shyly asked if I could have a picture and they were really nice and everyone in their group was kind and I got some pics with them, those were the only pics I got with cosplayers but I love the con and meeting them and was proud with myself in being able to ask for a pic in the first place
I'm the exact same, especially with asking to hug cosplayers. Even when I cosplay I'm extremely shy.
Don't judge someone if they didn't make their cosplay because you have no idea what that person has gone through. I once had some lady started lecturing me on how "a grown woman like me should know how to sew and being lazy won't help me and blah blah blah". I was 13 and had just finished exams…
Don't treat the cosplayer like he/she is exactly the character. For example, When I used to cosplay Russia It would drive me insane when Belarus cosplayers would hold me in a death lock. I had a friend who was a Belarus cosplayer and she hated it when Russia cosplayers would run away from her screaming. I had another friend who was an America cosplayer and she hated it when everybody would touch her stomach area to feel for a muffin top. Although those things are cannon in the Anime, it just comes off as obnoxious in real life.
I like when they treat me like the character I cosplay. I mean I AM the character I cosplay.
Unfortunate stories of cosplayers in Hetalia.
I remember seeing a France cosplayer getting all sexual with an England cosplayer. It was so awkward to watch tbh
+Kaito Shion That's great and all but please don't treat OTHERS like they are the characters just because you like it. You might like it but others don't.
Awesome Homo That would be extremely awkward. Unless those two cosplayers had some kind of relationship out side of Hetalia, that France cosplayer needs to keep his/her sex to themselves.
Jessie Fox I feel you man- With my Japan cosplay people would always get really close to me to see if I would react with his whole 'personal space' shit.
Lucky enough the con I went to had a hide-out for cosplayers who aren't feeling like roaming the convention grounds. It was behind the stage, and tons of cosplayers were sitting down playing with their phones or listening to music. Looks like they're all hiding owo
Its a small con, Kuantan Coswalk
Cosplay conventions are the one place I'm not scared to ask for pictures. No cosplayer is gonna be like "No, you can't take a picture with me"
also, you can't get upset if someone greets you with the name of the person you're cosplaying. They don't know your name.
Sometimes, you need to ask to do certain things "Can I hug you?" "Can I pick you up for a picture?" But, it's not that big of a deal -I had someone ask if they could put their hand on my shoulder when -*-I-*- asked for a picture with them, I thought that was kinda funny-
Yeah its never really...scary or nervous to be at a convention.
Sometimes they will say no when say, they're eating or they're trying to get somewhere.
Sprinkle Blitz yeah but if someone is eating you don't really ask for a picture, it's kinda rude. Same goes for if you can tell they're in a hurry
Alice Rose Yeah exactly.
Sprinkle Blitz You gotta use basic knowledge sometimes.
I was dressed as Aqua from Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep (and to put it in perspective, I am 5' 11" and was in heels) and this tiny adorable guy came up to me a stuttered, asking if he could have a picture, and was fumbling with his camera. It made me so happy! I felt like he liked my cosplay enough to get the courage to ask and was super stoked. Something similar happened when I had done the Kpop panel of my local con last year and was dressed as Ikon from the Dumb and Dumber MV, and no one recognized my cosplay which was okay, I understood it wasn't very popular but then this girl came up and tapped on my shoulder and was like "Can I have your picture? I love Ikon" and I was like "AAAH YESSS YOU CAN " XD
Mallory Airbender Which member did you cosplay as? p.s B.I and Yunhyeong and Bobby bias here
There's some great advice here; Hal Rudnick could learn a thing or two from this. But one warning to Cosplayers: Remember that if you are in a public place that does not have photography restrictions posted, strangers can take your picture at any time, no matter what you are doing. Whether you are standing, sitting, eating, kissing, or throwing up. They unfortunately do not need your permission (unless they intend to use the picture for business purposes.) Fortunately there are exceptions. Restrooms, locker rooms, changing rooms, and the like are protected under federal law. Also - though it may be hard to prove when in public - it's also illegal to photograph strangers with the intent on committing a lewd or illegal act with said pictures.
All of what you said is correct, but just because something is legal doesn't mean it isn't rude. This is more of a etiquette guide for how to politely and comfortably interact with cosplayers
Oh, yeah, not arguing that. Mostly just lamenting the fact that the people who need a good dose of etiquette won't have the sense to view and heed stuff like this video. I've had Cosplay friends for like 20 years; to me the fandom world is a better place because of their energy and creativity.
A tip: Dont be judgmental to a cosplayer for their race, height, age or gender Con's are a no h8 zone.
or weight
+gloomy pearl no, judgement for weight is always allowed. Common sense rules.
^^^^ ?????
Eren Yeagar I dunno
I don't know about other people but this is a HUGE no no for me; If a cosplayer is cosplaying a character with large breasts, muscles, short skirts, or their ass showing never walk over to them and grope them, start touching them, or take panty shots! I was doing a Ukraine from Hetalia cosplay once and a random girl ran up to me, squeezed my breasts and ran. Another time, I was just chatting with a group of people when one girl cosplaying Ryuko from Kill La Kill started talking about this really creepy guy following girls in skirts or booty shorts and taking panty shots or booty pics without them knowing. There are so many stories I can tell about things like this, people just need to respect others and if they give consent to the photos or allow you to touch them, then and only then should you do it.
+Cayla Rowland exactly you should only observe like a closet perve from a distance and hope for a wind of luck just like the characters in the shows :P
I have a tip for what you should not do. First off, remember that the cosplayers are still people underneath the costumes. That means that if you see a cosplayer, you should not treat them like their actual character. Sometimes the cosplayer does go the extra mile and will get into character but more often then not, they will just be wearing the costume just to cosplay and get their picture taken and such. For example, if you see an Inuyasha cosplay; do not walk up to them, push them to the ground, and say, "Sit boy." It could ruin their costume and get that person very angry.
This tip also goes for people who are cosplaying as well. As mentioned above, sometimes cosplayers go that extra mile and try to get into character. Personally, I think nothing is wrong with that but try not to get to aggressive with the character. For example, If you cosplaying as a "Psycho" from Borderlands/ BL2, do not go around the convention throwing your axes at people. Instead try running up to someone, say a Psycho signature line, do a psychotic laugh, and run away. Most of their phrases are not offensive but funny, the person will be taken by surprise and might be confused, and you are still getting into character w/o hurting anyone or ruining any costumes
This is a great video. As an older con-goer I am often way too nervous to ask for pictures, especially from younger cosplayers as I do not want to be "that creepy old guy" even though my intentions are always out of respect. As I will be cosplaying for myself for the first time this fan expo, I know I am totally cool with anyone approaching me, but I never want to assume other are as comfortable. Thanks for your insight
I know this is late but you most likely won't be thought of as a creep by asking a younger cosplayer for their picture just as long as you don't don't touch them in ways they don't like (like I'm not really comfortable with people putting their arm around my middle waist and lower because I'm ticklish on the middle wait and any lower just because I think it's weird) but just respect them when asking for pictures. I mean I wouldn't be creeped out by you if you ask me for picture and I'm 15
Thank you for this :)
"Don't ask them for a photo when they are eating or sitting down"
This, so much. I cannot tell you how upsetting it is when I am eating to have someone come up to me and snap a picture. Thank you, Sachie, for this. You have made an excellent vlog!
my biggest pet peeve is when people TOUCH WITHOUT ASKING!! how hard is it to understand to keep your hands to yourself? Also, if you ask a cosplayer for a hug/highfive/pic or w/e and they say no, RESPECT THAT! Dont badger them about it and keep asking!
Hey! I have been doing it right!
Whenever I see a cosplayer portraying a character I love ( The Last Airbender, Legend of Korra, DC Comics, Disney ) I have always praised their costume and then asked for a photo. I also thank them and if they don't appear to be too busy I ask them about their costume's construction.
Honestly, I never thought about how much work goes into their costumes until I watched Heroes of Cosplay and I wish I had half the talent most cosplayers have.
Great video. One of the things that really gets me mad at conventions are the crowded aisles with people taking photos of cosplayers. I bet cosplayers also feel unconfortable with this situation but don't know exactly how to answer to the ones holding the camera (or just don't care about the others, let's be realistic). But the ones that take the pictures could consider the ones around in this situation.
Thanks for another great video and keep up with the good work. By the way, I must say once again: you have lovely eyes. =)
Thank you for the do not touch without permission tip. While I'm hoping I'll be able to take enough time with my future cosplays to make them not super fragile, I also happen to have hypersensitivity due to a disability and some forms of physical contact can be almost painful for me, especially in a loud and crowded environment like a con. It's waaaay less awkward to tell somebody that they can't put their arm around me than it is to explain why I look uncomfortable in the picture.
I disagree with not asking cosplayers for pictures in the merch room, which you referred to as the dealers room. At Comic Con just about everywhere you go someone will want your picture, and as a fellow Cosplayer, I dont mind at all being asked in that area, nor did anyone else seem to mind. People are just as likely and willing to pose for photos in that area as they are anywhere else, and I think we all expect that. We are prepared. I also disagree with not asking for a picture when someone is sitting down/resting/eating. There is absolutely nothing wrong with ASKING. Some people wont want to be photographed but some will get up and pose for you happily.
I agree. Thank you!
***** Yeah!
I would recommend not bring large cosplays and large props into smaller dealer halls/artist alleys if you are in a medium or small sized conventions, sometimes you can hurt people (like how my friend had some wings on her and kept hitting myself or people around her in the face and eyes), or you can damage the cosplay or the merchandise of the vendor or artist. You should always be aware of how big your cosplay is and how crowded areas can be at certain times. You could bring a cosplay handler to help you move about and help protect your cosplay, I sometimes am a handler so I make sure cosplayers are getting water, food, and other things to help get through the day.
I think it all boils down to one simple concept...respect them as a person. Don't creep, don't touch without permission, don't interrupt their meals or conversations with others, be polite, etc. Just simply show them respect.
I was at anime expo last year, 2014, and I was in my Lucy Heartfilia cosplay, at the fairy tail gathering. So we were doing a shipping picture with my character and another one. This guy in the other cosplay politely asked if they can pick me up for the picture. I didn't mind so I said yes. I really appreciated him asking and I found it cool. His cosplay was awesome too BTW
I for one don't care if you ask for a picture while I'm resting. At my last con I spent most of my day sitting outside resting and I loved it when people came up and asked for photos. I agree with you on the point of don't ask when were obviously rushing though. A lot of cosplayers have competitions to get to.
Another tip: DO NOT TRY TO TAKE A PANTIE SHOT/LOW ANGLE WITHOUT THE COSPLAYER'S CONSENT
Okay that's just not appropriate, it happened to me at AX when I cosplayed as wedding dress version of Nico Yazawa, a photographer took pictures of me in low angle and it made extremely uncomfortable even though I had bloomers/pumpkin shorts under my skirt but still it's not a very nice feeling :/
"without the cosplayer's consent" would they say yes if you asked?
what do you mean by that?
If they are comfortable with it they might say yes, but a majority would say "no you can't take a picture of my panties" and that's what would be considered normal, but some cosplayers might say yes (I know I would if asked politely) so you don't really know unless you ask
Always be kind and polite to Cosplayers. If the cosplayer is an attractive woman appreciation of her outfit selection should boost her confidence, not make her uncomfortable. Always think, "How would I act if this was my daughter?"
Cosplay is awesome, we should all do what we can to help each other out. Reinforce confidence!
Definite agreement on the "Please don't when I'm eating or resting" point . We've had that happen before and just respond with a polite "Can you wait a few minutes?" More often than not, the person will hang around at another table nearby and when we're ready to go again and get dressed, we can wave them over. That way we can pose properly and make sure they get a good picture. I know if I'm taking photos I don't want a photo of a character mid-bite...
If the cosplayer is female dont ogle the chest area!
On the topic of asking for permission to put your arm around somebody when taking a picture. When I cosplayed for the first time I was Canada from Hetalia and I got to go to a meetup for hetalia cosplayers and at this meet up they where doing photoshoots and I went up when it was canada and russia's turn to go forward and get photos taken. The sweetest Russia cosplayer came to me and asked if I was comfortable with hugs and a kiss in photos. I cannot tell you how comforting it was to have somebody ask me that instead of just coming in for a kiss or hug. We did pose for a little kiss and hugs but thanks to that person I can say that I don't have a con horror story haha so I cannot stress enough how crucial it is to ask permission to hug or kiss a cosplayer.
Great vlog, Sachie! Asking for business cards or cosplay cards is such a great way to meet folk and keep track of their projects.
Also "Don't hover hand. Please, please." Fantastic.
I recently went to Phoenix comic con and cosplayed as Fran from Final Fantasy 12 I didnt think anyone would really know who I was. Anyway I got a lot of photos taken. I remember sitting and resting and had a guy come up and ask for a photo. He apologized when he realized I was about to eat. I noticed even when I was eating people would ask
It doesnt bother me much if they ask while I'm eating as long as they are polite about it..I would say be polite if you are going to ask while a cosplayer is eating and be willing to wait for them to finish. I had people take photos of me sitting down because I was resting and my feet hurt they were all understanding though so I guess I got lucky lmao .
As a cosplayer myself I don't mind having my picture taken, but when it comes to people touching me in photos I have an issue with it just because I don't like people touching me. Shoulder to shoulder is fine but I agree with you. ASK BEFORE TOUCHING! I also know that I love having people take photos of me since I try to do less common anime's and my fiance and I like to do couple cosplays. At my convention I go to the dealers room has some pretty good light so pics turn out OK.
One time I was at con taking a picture of how many people there were at the con and this amazing cosplay group noticed and they asked if I wanted a picture it was so amazing cus I didint have to ask! (so of course I said yes I would love to take a picture)
I always wondered about how to approach this situation, even though my social phobia/agoraphobia means I'll likely never get to go to a convention. Thank you for the advice!
Good stuff to know. Let's face it, a lot of con-goers don't have the best social awareness. Which is a good thing about cons, gets them to be social cause someone at the con is going to have the same interests!
I've gone to cons that have areas specifically for cosplay posing. They urge people to take pictures only in those areas. Of course people will take pictures in other areas as well, I mean, they can't stop it really.
Using the dealers hall/room example, how would a cosplayer feel if someone came up to them and asked them if they could have a picture of them once they were done in the dealer's hall/room?
To add onto the dealers room bit: Don't stop in the middle of a hallway. If you really want to take a photo of someones costume move to the side or out of the main flow of foot traffic. This is a major problem with a lot of cons.
One I've experienced personally was someone taking a photo of me from a distance without any prior permission (while I was sitting down because I wasn't feeling well, of which was actually very obvious). While my friend was making sure I was ok, the photographer made eye contact with me smiled after he took his un-consensual photo and quickly scampered away.
DO NOT do this to cosplayers. ALWAYS ask!
Unless a cosplayer is posing and giving permission to a group of people don't just take photos without their prior consent. it can be very rude and make cosplayers feel very uncomfortable.
I agree with the dealer's room one.
At the last con I was getting stopped for soooo many photos and I felt really bad because I hate causing traffic. And I couldn't even get passed the first four booths without getting constantly stopped. I was frustrated because I wanted to actually shop and unfortunately couldn't. So I left the dealer's room and missed out on it the entire con. (The rest of the con I had other events to perform in.)
I have to say you speak very well, I'm French so I meet some difficulties to understand spoken English but it was pretty easy with you, I had to comment ! :)
Your tips are really nice and not so obvious for everyone so thank you for sharing this video !
Actual thing that happened to me at the last SD Comic-Con: *me cosplaying as Gangplank from League of Legends, putting my stuff down against a wall and SLOWLY, feet achingly, sitting next to it* The couple nearby watches me put down my stuff and sit on the floor. Only THEN does the girl ask for a photo with me. I smile at her, hiding my pain; but, a nearby cosplayer that I don't know says to her, "Are you kidding me? He's just starting to rest and you wait until he completely sits down on the floor to ask him?" I obliged anyway but thanked my fellow cosplayer when they were out of earshot.
Also don't tell someone if you think they didn't get certain details right, no staring at boobs & compliments are always nice! :)
i've definitely made the arm photo mistake. lol the hover hand. didn't do that. but this is useful for any cons i go to.
If you get permission to hug a cosplayer, DO NOT nuzzle them. That's a great way to ruin a styled wig!
Next year i am going to oz comic con in brisbane and i will cosplaying as princess ariel from the little mermaid if i am sitting down i probally won't mind getting asked for a photo since i am in no rush to do anything but if i am eating i might say no or just ask them to give me a second to finish up and with being in character i might do that when i get photos with little kids just to make them smile cause me personally nothing makes my day more than seeing a little kid or baby smile
Cosplay- **and** Convention guru, nice! Congrats on the promotion Sachie :)
I have one! Please please PLEASE avoid surprise tackle hugging or "Glomping" cosplayers (including fursuiters and such)! I along with many others have gotten really hurt or the wind knocked out of them. It sucks and sometimes ruins the day.
Yeah! Cause I mean if you ask me for a glomp if I'm in a costume that is okay with it I will look to see if I would be able to hold them or able to hold me and if I can hold them (not likely) they can glomp me but if they could hold me I would glomp them and I would have us a more open area.
Definitely introduce yourself to someone as you, and not your character. I went to a few meetups at one con and everyone kind of had a rule that you would give your real name and a normal introduction, but could act in character after all that happened. Seriously, it's much less awkward!
I was cosplaying America once, and met a very nice 2p! England cosplayer. I introduced myself first with my name, and then we went on to being in character, running around, getting married, and all that fun stuff. Remember, these are PEOPLE, they are dressed as the character, but they are still very real people.
i do get a little annoyed when im asked to take a photo when im sitting down/resting/eating etc but its okay if its a few people but when more come it does get tiring.. usually at cons i dont get to eat till after its over or i quickly leave the con when there are less attendees around to go get lunch and then return but people do still ask for photos outside of the con but its a bearable amount compared to being inside.
I was at an anime convention about a month ago and I had SOOO many people ask for a photo while I was in the dealers room. It was mainly younger kids coming up that wanted pictures with me dressed as Mirajane so I couldn't get angry. The worst had to be when we took a break around lunch time and I sat down to rest my feet and drink some water. There was a woman who came up to me and took a picture while I was drinking then she walked off without a word. What do you even do with a picture of a cosplayer drinking water? Everyone in my group just laughed about it, but it was still odd and rude.
Thanks for the tips Sachie!
Just came across your channel. Awesome stuff :)
It's 2017 and I am prepared to see a lot of Yuri on Ice cosplayers at my local anime con. (And ai am super excited about it)
to summariza most of the tipps here (plus comments).just follow common knowlegde about "how to talk with someone" and " do not do illegal stuff,especially regarding to harrasment and picture taking "
I think a big no no is if you're cosplaying a character, say naruto, and see a sakura or sasuke cosplayer, do NOT asume you can act like they are the character and attack them with hugs or what ever. The cosplayer might not be comfortable with strangers coming up and treating you like your character.
Another big no is doing the oposit treatment, if the person is cosplaying a evil character, dont just go up to them and start threatening the cosplayer or act just cause youre cosplaying the good guy.
There are a lot of cosplayer who isnt into acting out their character 24/7
Quick question because this has happened to me a lot.
How do you sit down and rest when for instance you have some hard cardboard armor on?
Follow up question how should o reply to people wanting to put on different parts of armor like the helmet which is often in a hard to get to spot
Haha im mostly not worried about my parts moving or breaking, But rather more worried about the persons hand and or arms during those moments. Wokring in metal has it's hazards and getting stuck with fingers between moving armour plates is more common then most think
A lot of these issues can be navigated sensibly if people would just ASK before ACTING.
>_<
If I were at a con, I'd want to have a good experience, but I'd want the people I met there to have a good experience too! People could stand to be a _little_ less self-involved.
perfect. good info and glad you made this video!
Thanks for this!! Learned some new things though most of it seemed like common sense
Do: ask if you'd like a picture with the cosplayer in a particular pose! A lot of us spend plenty of time recreating shots for photographers so we've got good knowledge of poses that make a good shot. Rather than just stand there like a lemon next to your desired subject, it's far better to have some interaction, so discuss it with us and we'll help you get the best and most memorable shot we can!
Yes ASK FIRST for the arm thing!
I had this guy ask to take a photo of my costume in my second year of cosplaying so I was really awkward and not yet totally comfortable and he did this weird hover arm thing and I'm like 11 or 12 so I was so uncomfortable.
I had a really funny experience one time. I was Cosplaying as Fem!Mihawk and was on the phone trying to find a friend when I see someone awkwardly taking tiny trot steps toward me then back and forward again. She disappears and I feel kinda bad she couldn't get my picture but when I end my call she pops up out of nowhere on the other side of me and excitedly asks for my picture XD
At the last convention I went to I had someone ask for a picture after just watching me throw up because I couldn't make it to the bathroom in time... it was bizarre to say the least, they were persistent too and hung around whilst a fellow cosplayer fetched me paper towels and some water....
A good thing to do is compliment there cosplay, it assures them that what they made and all that time they spent was worth it.
I'd say walking up to them and saying hello, and then politely asking if you can take a picture.
Where did you get that shirt? It's adorable!
Also, don't compare cosplays or point out mistakes. For example i went to a comicon dresses like Aqua for Kingdom Hearts and someone went up to be and told me that they just saw someone else with a better cosplay of her then what i had. This person continued to point out mistakes like the pink straps i sewed onto my outfit was darker then in the game and the blue wig wasn't shiny enough. They told me i was forgetting a spike in the boot and i was forgetting a clip accessory. This was a homemade cosplay and my first cosplay that i sewed myself. Chances are if you point out that they are missing something in someone else's cosplay, they already know and pointing it out is just going to make it worse.
I usualy get their atention by calling them and show them my camera, then send them a message with my eyes "photo?" and they usualy respond with their look "hella photo".
One thing with con is when taking pictures with people I notice that not many pictures are taken with my younger generation or it was just me not being popular in general but I got like five pictures (I'm 14 btw) and only one pic was asked from me, the other four I got with some hetalia cosplayers. but some people find it creepy taking pictures with younger children who are cosplaying and that's mainly because they are you going and their parents may not agree with it and that's one thing that I'd hate to see at con. I don't want to walk around and spot a big tall gentlemen asking a 10 year old in squid girl cosplay for a picture because that is genuinely creepy as. I was really grateful to get asked for a picture and she was a cool kid, she was more brave in asking for a pic than me asking others for pics so XD Kinda embarrassed. being young is kinda limiting the amount of people asking for pictures so I don't want anyone just to get the ideas that I don't want my picture taken or to be filmed, I'm fine with it as long as they ask.
Dealing with people who want to take your picture when you're in a hurry - Jamie Hyneman of Mythbusters fame, has a wonderful, hilarious solution, which he employed at SDCC. As he was bustling by, he would answer yes to the request, but keep on going. One enterprising team walked along with him while the camera person managed to scamper ahead enough to get the pic. *Priceless!* There's video footage somewhere out there.
Thanks this vid was really helpful because I want to photograph cosplay.
thanks for the advice.
Yeahh I totally agree with this. As a lot of people have mentioned, don't gloop a cosplayer out of nowhere. One time I cosplayer Kagamine Rin and a Kagamine Len glommed me on some stairs, I fell back onto said stairs and really bruised my back along with my headphones breaking and this was just an hour or so after arriving to the con.
Not fun--
I was at a con yesterday and this kid literally jumped onto my back with like no warning. He was like twelve and I wasn’t mad at him, but it scared me omg!
A) If a cosplayer is sitting and resting in a lounge area, would you say it's a good time to strike up a conversation about their cosplay and fandoms and so on? Or is it better to just compliment them and try to catch them later?
B) If they are resting, you've talked for a while, and you still want a picture, should you say "I'd really like to get a picture of your cosplay, but you seem like you need a rest. Is there someplace I can catch you later for one?"
Like someone said, non-cosplayers have places to be as well, so it's about maximizing both people's experiences.
It's a matter of reading the situation. With cons, people like to have fun and make friends! So if the are sitting and not doing something like eating, or talking with another friend, or having headphones in (things that tend to read as 'i want some alone quiet time right now') then by all means, stop, compliment their costume, ask if the seat next to them is taken and start a conversation with them about the make of their costume. Also all of b is correct, yes, do all of that.
I totally agree. Most of the time when I'm cosplaying and sitting down, it's because I'm wearing heels and my feet need a break, but I'm perfectly happy to talk to someone about my costume, or stand up for a quick picture. However, if I really need a break from everything, I'll normally pull out my tablet or my phone, get a little more comfortable, and avoid looking at people walking past me, to kinda indicate that I want to be left alone for a bit. I'd say if you sit next to someone and they engage in a good conversation, go ahead and as if you can get a quick photo, they'll probably say yes.
I'm a little shy 3x. But I am going to try this (Alanta-Con! :) )
Pet Lover181 I'm shy x1000 like I cannot talk to other cosplayers it's scary 0-0
I know I didn't end up talking to anyone... I was so shy lmao... But I might try to drag my friends along next time I go to a con... you should try to! (If your scared they'll think you weird, say it's a gathering event!)
I think I did the hover hand thing during a celeb photo op. Ooops! It was my first con and my first photo op the whole picture process happened so fast. I guess I never thought about it I naturally went for the arm around thing then a thought hit me "they probably don't want to be touched." Pic was already taken and I was out of the room as soon as the thought crossed my mind. When I went to pick up the pic I saw that she had returned the hover hand since both of our hands are behind our backs and our hands are not visible it is not noticeable. I am kind of embarrassed now after seeing this video.
When I went to AX i had to turn down people for a picture while I was sitting and resting. I had to wear heels for the con and long sleeves and pants. It was so hot. I even had a lot of my props off and people asked. I felt so bad :'(
This probably late but my first cosplay is going to be Canada from hetalia, I already have glasses and a wig coming and such but any hetalians here, how will people react to me? I’m a pretty shy person so I can relate to Canada plus I really like the character but, I don’t know how people will act around me, will they just ignore me on purpose because I’m Canada or....?
I've just been studying things like this so I know what to do if I go to fan expo
My thing always asking for photo with cosplayer is one if really hot outside is did wear enough right guard and two if put your arm around there waist for photo are my hands cold ass hell
Once when I was working at a con and cosplaying Ahri (with giant tails T.T) I finally had a lunch break but every time I tried to pick up my food someone would ask for a picture and in the end my friend had to hide me so I could eat xD
Once I was cosplaying seshomaru and a little girl ran up and glomped me from the front. The only problem was that I had armor on with spikes. Luckily they were foam but felt bad that she got stabbed by spikes :/
I had a cosplayer seem rather annoyed with me when I asked her about her movement gear (attack on titan). It looked really good especally from a distance, but when I came up and said, " Wow, very nice gear, what did you make it out of?" I got a really weird look before all I was told was a simple "foam board" answer.
So I guess not all Cosplay likes talking about their props or costume...
So glad I found your channel :)
My only issue is when people take a photo of my cosplay without asking
Como curiosidad, cuando tomó una foto de un cosplayer suelo ser yo quien le da una tarjeta con la dirección de mi blog para que pueda ver allí la foto.
Curiously, when I take a photo of a cosplayer I'm usually the one who gives the card with the address of my blog so the cosplayer can see the picture there.
thank you Sachie!
One time a someone just came up and took a picture of me without asking and I was like excuse me
Someone took a picture of me while I was sitting on the ground, talking to my friend, and eating. He didn't even ask if he could😂
i'm new to cosplay and so far it's very interesting. i've made costumes and was planning to wear them at a con this year but since it would be my first time cosplaying would i still need a cosplay card?
Of course not! I cosplay all the time and have yet to create a cosplay card.
Usually if people ask if they can contact me, I refer them to my social media accounts (DeviantArt, Tumblr, TH-cam, etc.).
If you need anymore help don't be afraid to ask anyone ^^'.
thank you for being so helpful!
Grace Vali
No problem! It's what I do best!