Welcome to the wonderful world of Cosplay! Here we are going to give you some dos and don'ts of Cosplay and some tips on surviving your first con (and the camekos that come with it).

And if you scroll down to the bottom of the page, you will find tips given from other cosplayers!


1.Do cosplay characters you relate to and/or enjoy.

2.Do study the character's mannerisms-pay close attention to how the character carries himself/herself.

3.Do have at least 3 different poses. This is where the studying comes in. Find poses that you feel expresses the character best.

4.Do try to bring the character to life. You never know-you might make someone's day.

5.Do try to have a reference image of every angle. If this isn't possible (like in the case of an artbook image), use your better judgement of the other angles. Add your own flare to the costume, but keep it as close to character as you can.

6.Do accept constructive critizism. You have to realize that there is always room for improvement, even in those who have been costuming for years. Besides, some cosplayers out there

7.Do have fun!

8.Do save the drama for the stage. Please.

9.Don't cosplay for the sake of entering contests and winning. Cosplay is suppose to be a fun hobby for everyone, not a competition.

10.Don't treat others inferior to you just because the quality of their isn't at its peak. Cosplayers are all equal.

11.Don't think you are the only one that cosplays that character or the "best" at the character. There are others that cosplay the same character, believe it or not, and no one is better than anyone else. Again, we are all equal.

12.Don't criticize others because you think their costume isn't good. They might have worked hard and could have been proud of their work. Constructive criticism is okay, as long as you don't go overboard. Ex: "You know, if you try this technique that may not be so fragile. That way you can wear the costume again!"

13.Don't overuse the glue gun. Yes, this fabulous invention is great in a jam or for some construction, but it does start to look messy and unprofessional if you use too much.
14.Don't make a sign to carry around. These can be quite tacky and they just get in the way. Save them for your cosplay skits!

1Bring a repair kit! Make sure to include items like needles, thread, safety pins, glue gun, e.xtra buttons, etc. That way if anything was to go wrong, God forbid, you won't have to panic.

2.Don't be afraid of the Camekos. A "cameko" is a cosplay photographer. Most of them aren't professional, but instead do this as a hobby. Some of them ask for a few different poses, so try to think of a few that fit the character beforehand. Some specify how they want you to pose. If they do anything you don't feel comfortable with, don't be afraid to tell them "no." Posing with friends is also a lot of fun. And do everyone a favor and have at least one picture of you smiling in it. It brightens the face and overall makes a better picture. And if you don't physically smile, smile with your eyes. Put some expression in the photos or you will just look like you don't want to be there.

3.Don't go by yourself. Cons are large places with lots of things to do. It is better to do this with someone who has gone before, or a few other newbies. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Next thing you know you will be getting lost surrounded by Storm Troopers. Not my idea of a good time... ^^;

4.Bring snacks and/or food money, and don't forget your water. Okay. Con food and hotel food is mad expensive. Bring snacks to last through your day. Also, don't skip meals. Go get a decent lunch and dinner. If you don't eat, you will feel weak and won't be able to continue to enjoy the experience. Also bring water. Some costumes are hot enough to begin with, but adding the thousands of con goers and you have a sauna. Just be sure to eat and drink water and you will be fine (Don't be like me and learn the hard way-be smart!~Julie).

5.Demonstrate good hygeine. This can't be stressed enough. Shower. Wear deodorant. Be CLEAN! The "fan funk" (the horrid smell of lazy congoers) can be almost deadly in the game room, dealer room, and viewing rooms. Some cons even have a policy for this, ie: if you are not showing good hygiene you will be removed from the con until you shower.

6.Be careful of drama. Drama is inevitable in the cosplay community. If people try to start drama with you, walk away. If someone comes to you with their drama, tell them you don't want to be involved and change the subject. Drama has ruined many con weekends for our friends, so don't let this happen to you.

7.Bring a camera and film. Trust me. If you don't have this you will regret it. There are so many great costumes out there, and when you don't have a camera you end up slapping yourself for it. I usually bring about 5 rolls of film, and use about 3. Or a few disposable cameras, or a few flash cards. Video cameras work great, too. Asking for pictures is a great way to meet new people.

8.Asking questions isn't a bad thing. Don't be afraid to ask questions. A lot of cosplayers are willing to help if you need it. If you don't know where the best Chinese place is or you don't know the best way to make a quick repair on your costume, SOMEONE is bound to know how to deal. Cosplayers and other con-goers are also pretty good to know where the best deals are at the dealer tables or whatnot. And if you are new to anime, Japanese music, whatever, don't be afraid to ask for opinions! If you want to buy a DVD ask around. Someone will have similiar enough interest to recommend a great product for you. You never know-you might just meet your best friend this way! =^.~=