Once upon a time, all of us were new to the scene. Wandering into the magical world of conventions, we were bright-eyed, bushy-tailed, and completely overwhelmed, not knowing what to expect. When you’re new to the convention world, it can be daunting to figure out what to do and where to go. That’s where your fairy Colin-mothers come in, to shed a little light on the basics of conventions for cosplayers and share everything you didn’t know you wanted to know. Welcome to the Beginner’s Guide to Cosplay Conventions!
Choosing the Right Convention
First, familiarize yourself with the types of conventions available. In Australia and New Zealand, the variety of conventions grows each year. They range from small, intimate events like TasPop to large, multi-state touring conventions such as Oz Comic-Con. Some conventions cater to niche interests, such as anime, trading cards, or esports, while others cover multiple aspects of pop culture.
To decide which convention to attend, consider upcoming events in your state or interstate if you’re up for travel. Think about your interests and what features you value most: whether it's exciting guests, the chance to meet friends, unique exhibitors, or intriguing panels and events. For example, if you love indie games and chatting with developers, Melbourne-based PAX is a must-visit.
Deciding What to Wear
Once you’ve chosen your con, the next big question looms: what to wear? If it’s your first time cosplaying, start small.
Attend a few conventions in casual outfits or simple character-inspired looks to get a feel for the environment.
Until you’re ready to strut your more complicated stuff, prioritize comfort. While elaborate costumes and sky-high heels look amazing, start with something manageable. Choose comfy shoes, dress for the weather, and pick a cosplay that makes you feel confident without pushing your limits. Avoid bulky or long costumes at first, as navigating packed convention halls in a trailing cape or gown can be a nightmare.
Always have a backup outfit or comfortable pieces to change into if needed. Con weekends can be exhausting, and the last thing you want is sore feet ruining your day. Additionally, check the convention’s rules for prop sizes, materials, and family-friendly costume policies to avoid surprises at the door.
Navigating the Convention
You’ve set the date, picked your cosplay, and are ready to go. Now what? Dive in and enjoy! Conventions offer plenty for cosplayers, from panels and workshops to community performances and cosplay meets. Check the schedule on the convention’s website or socials for events like Q&As, craft workshops, and cosplay parades.
Cosplay meets are fantastic for connecting with others. Many conventions post meet schedules for broad or specific groups (e.g., Nintendo, anime, or fighting games). Unofficial meetups organized by fans are also common, so keep an eye on social media for these.
Cosplay Competitions and Photo Opportunities
Cosplay competitions range from casual parades to high-stakes preliminaries for international contests. If you’re not ready to compete, consider joining a cosplay parade to showcase your work without pressure. These events welcome all cosplays, handmade or bought, and celebrate community spirit.
If scheduling a private shoot feels overwhelming, many conventions have photowalls with on-site photographers. Simply line up, smile, and pose! Remember to note their handles or check the event schedule to find your photographer later.
Convention Etiquette
Respect is key. Be mindful of others’ space, especially in busy areas. Always ask before taking photos and avoid interrupting cosplayers who are resting or eating. Familiarize yourself with the principle of "cosplay is not consent" and apply it both ways, respect others' boundaries and assert your own.
When working with photographers, show appreciation but respect their time. Many juggle other responsibilities alongside editing your photos. Discuss timeframes during your shoot and avoid pestering them for updates.
Accessibility and Accommodations
If you require accessibility accommodations, check the convention’s website, FAQ, or venue resources. If information is unclear, don’t hesitate to reach out via email or social media. Attending on quieter days like Fridays or Sundays can also make navigating the event easier.
Bring a friend if attending alone feels daunting. You deserve to enjoy the convention as much as anyone else, so plan ahead to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience.
Embarking on your first cosplay convention can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it’s incredibly rewarding. Prioritize comfort, follow con guidelines, and explore the diverse activities, from panels to photo ops and meetups. Above all, conventions are about celebrating creativity, meeting like-minded individuals, and having fun. Dive in with an open heart and a spirit of adventure, welcome to the magical world of cosplay conventions!
Written by Madi Laffan
