Denver Comic Con is this weekend, June 30 to July 2, and we've got some tips on proper etiquette so you and those around you can have a fun and safe time at the convention.
Not sure about you, but I am PUMPED for Denver Comic Con this year! Not only will I be meeting some of my favorite actors and artists, but I'll also be cosplaying two of the three days of the convention! Denver Comic Con (DCC) is the highlight of my year each and every year. Between the cosplays, celebrities, artists, and panels, it's the epitome of nerd culture, and I love it.
With the convention comes some people who have seemed to have forgotten a few manners, and, unfortunately, it is part of the territory when dealing with big gatherings like this.
So, to combat that lack of manners, we've put together a guide for proper etiquette at DCC, especially for when you're interacting with film and television actors, artists, and cosplayers. Plus, some tips on the appropriate dress requirements for cosplaying.
Interacting with...
Film/Television Actors With big names attending DCC this year, there will be lines and lots of waiting. So please realize that while you may be excited to meet a celebrity, there are hundreds of other people who are just as excited as you. When getting an autograph or photo op, try to keep it as brief as possible, especially if there's a long queue of people waiting behind you. It's also important to remember that while the celebrities portrayed certain characters on screen, they are not those characters in real life. Just a good thing to keep in mind when interacting with them. Here's the full list of celebrity guests and the days they'll be attending, so make sure you plan accordingly. It wouldn't hurt to pre-order the photo-ops to ease your experience and limit the amount of time spent in line.
Artists/Creators
Comics are a big part of DCC. And as a collector of comics, you may want to get your comics signed by one of the creators and/or artists. But please remember to be gracious. Most of the comic artists and writers will sign a single copy (or two) for free, but don't expect to get everything signed for free. And if it's a big-name artist, then it's a safe bet that you may have to pay for an autograph.
Also, it's fine to chat and have a conversation with an artist. However, if there's a long line, then please be courteous of those waiting behind you and keep it brief.
Cosplayers
Regardless of the character a cosplayer is portraying, no matter how excited you may get, you do not have permission to touch them.
When it comes to wanting a photo with a cosplayer, simply ask. I've been cosplaying for three years now, and each year I've encountered people who have simply taken photos without asking if it's okay. I know a lot of other cosplayers who would agree with that sentiment. Just ask, guys.
On the other side of the coin, don't push cosplayers into taking photos. If someone is taking a break and sitting off to the side, let them be. Besides, you can always find that person later and ask if you really want a photo.
Cosplaying Guidelines
If you're like me, then you know that cosplay is one of the best parts of Comic Con! You can dress up as one of your favorite comic book, movie/television or video game characters and bring them to life off of the screen. Not to mention it's pretty cool seeing other people's cosplays and all of the hard work and dedication that went into the costumes. DCC is very family oriented, so it's important to keep your cosplays PG. So that means no thongs, no bare chests, no singlets, and shoes must be worn at all times. These rules are being implemented, regardless of one's gender identification. DCC also states, "The illusion of nudity is still nudity. If flesh colored garments are not easily identifiable from 10 feet away as garments, they are prohibited." The prop policy at DCC has been updated within the last year. Firearms of any kind -- BB guns, cap guns, paintball and pellet guns, and airsoft guns, even if it's been disabled/not loaded -- are strictly prohibited. This is being implemented for everyone's safety and well-being. View the full version of the recently updated guidelines regarding costumes and props. If you have any questions regarding cosplay and props, please email DCC at [email protected].
At the end of the day, we're all huge nerds and it's important to keep that sense of togetherness throughout the con (and throughout our every day lives). Remember your basic manners like saying "excuse me" and "sorry" when trying to navigate large crowds. DCC is a huge gathering of geeks and nerds coming together in one place to celebrate our differences and our similarities. Cherish in the awesomeness, because Denver Comic Con only comes around once a year!
So, please remember to be kind to one another, to keep each other safe and enjoy the weekend!
Will you be attending DCC this year? If so, are you cosplaying? Which celebrity guests and/or artists are you looking forward to seeing? Let us know in the comments below, and we'll see you there!
