Cosplay Competition Survival Guide

So you made it to a cosplay competition whether it be craftsmanship or masquerade. First of all congratulations! Entering your work or performance into a competition is a scary thing but we are gonna make sure you will be okay! As a cosplayer who has done both masquerade and craftsmanship competitions, I will tell you what I have learned so you can go into it prepared! This list will give you the best tactics to make sure you look your best and slay on the stage!

• Make sure your cosplay is prepped and ready for the competition

  • By making sure your cosplay is ready i.e. has all its components and ready for prejudging or your performance, takes off a huge burden on the mind.

  • Adding the final details or cleaning up a few minor things such as ironing helps sharpen your build and adds another level of care for your build. After all...judges love a clean wrinkle free build

  • Don't forget important parts of your cosplay like props or your build book! They are easy to overlook sometimes.

• Bring some people for support to your prejudging and to the competition

  • I know it's a little tough to bring a support group with you since you might think you are disturbing them but I promise your friends will be happy to go with you and be there for when you're done!

  • This is the same with the competition itself. Some conventions will allow you to bring an emotional support person. If you're really scared and feel you need someone to support you don't be afraid to ask if you can bring someone! And if they don't allow you to then don't be afraid of your competitions. Most people competing enjoy talking with the people they are competing against since they know exactly what you're feeling. The people backstage are your friends and will be there for you if you need it!

• Stay calm, be confident, and remember YOU EARNED THE CHANCE TO SHINE

  • Going in knowing you're getting judged is really hard. You need to remember these people chosen for this role have been in your shoes before. They had to start at the beginning and work their way up to their role. Staying confident puts an aura around you that not only makes it easier to shine like a star, but will help your audience get more into your performance and stage presence as well! Confidence is KEY!

• Mentally prepare yourself before you go on stage!

  • I will admit the stage is scary. There are a lot of people off stage, there's bright lights, and cameras as well. Just thinking about that is nerve wracking but you need to know what's out there and know how to give yourself the mental boost you need to get out there and strut your way to the top!

  • This may sound silly but before I go one stage I sing something that's either in character to embody the character more, or sing something uplifting to pump myself up. My go to song is Pink Pony Club but find whatever fits for you!

• PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE

  • Whether it be a full performance or just posing, YOU NEED TO PRACTICE. Trust me, you do not wanna go on stage not knowing your movements. Know your poses/routine like the back of your hand. That way you can go up on the stage looking and feeling like the brightest star in the sky!

Competitions are scary. You are putting something you worked really hard on out into the world but you have to remember...so did everyone else that's on that stage. You may win, you may lose. All that matters is that you go out there with your best foot forward and show everyone you deserve to be there! I believe that everyone has potential, and sometimes people just need to hear it from someone else. So I want you to know that I BELIEVE IN YOU. So good luck at your next competition and remember...no matter what happens YOU DESERVE TO BE THERE.

Fever Dream as Stolas in Awesomecon Cosplay Competition