Cosplay Etiquette 101: How to Admire Without Aggravating

Con season is here my friends! If you are anything like me you are so excited to go to conventions, wear some cosplay, and meet new friends! Unfortunately with cosplay comes attention and sometimes it's not wanted. As a cosplayer I have had my fair share of discomfort from people who don't know how to interact properly and have friends who have dealt with the same. That's why I'm here today to tell you how to interact with cosplayers without making them uncomfortable or unhappy!

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• COSPLAY IS NOT CONSENT!

  • I cannot stress this enough. No matter what you NEED to be respectful of cosplayers. Do NOT touch them, take pictures of them, or make unnecessarily comments towards them unless you ASK FOR CONSENT!!! Cosplay can be revealing depending on the character or that character can be flirtatious in its original media. Just because a character is one way does not mean the person behind the costume is as well.

• If a cosplayer looks busy, they probably are!

  • Cosplayers are on their feet a lot at cons. They could have been at a photo shoot, coming back from cosplay/masquerade rehearsals, or even coming back from running a panel. If a cosplayer looks like they are rushing to get somewhere, LET THEM GO. Please do not be the reason someone is late for pre-judging or rehearsals.

• Cosplayers need rest too!

  • This may sound shocking but...cosplayers are people too. They need time to sit down or eat or even just want to take a break for a moment. If you see a cosplayer trying to rest or eat please don't bother them. I promise you will see them again at the convention and you can ask for a photo then.

• Just because someone is nice to you, it does NOT make you friends!

  • If a cosplay is nice to you and gives you attention, take it for what it is, a nice gesture. Do NOT take it further and immediately insert yourself into their friend group or obsess over their social media. This kind of behavior makes people uncomfortable in a normal circumstance, applying cosplay into the situation makes it harder since that makes them a public figure with a reputation in the community.

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As long as you are respectful towards cosplayers and give them the space they need, they will be happy to take pictures with you and talk for a moment. Some cosplayers find it hard to say no in uncomfortable situations so please don't put them in that position. Happy con season friends! Stay safe, have fun, and be respectful!

FeverDreamCosplay as Stolas Taken by gghoulphoto on Instagram