10 Things You Can Do At Comic Con- Amanda Skipper
I’m sure we’ve all been to a comic convention or maybe you’re thinking about attending your first one? I remember attending my first con and how overwhelming it was. I wanted to see one of my favourite voice actors at the time but sadly never did seeing, as we couldn’t find his panel. Nevertheless, I’ve been going to cons ever since. Regardless of the reason, here’s a quick guide to what you can do. However, before you shrug off saying that “cons are not really my thing” I guarantee there is something of your interest.
1) Meet your favourite celebrities
Most conventions have their own special guest panel, from actors/actresses to voice actors, and even YouTube creators, gamers and the artist to your favourite comic. So check the website and see if you can find anyone, you recognise. You may finally get to meet your idol.
Important note, keep in mind not all guests can attend every day of the convention. Make sure you get the day right and always double check for updates.
2) Play Games
Board games, video games, they got it! You can even participate in tournaments, as long as you sign up of course. However, if it’s not your cup of tea, just play a friendly game. I myself plan to play and bring along my Guess Who game when conventions are on again with my friend.
3) Watch Anime/Movies
Not all but few anime/film conventions have rooms where they highlight your favourite anime series or films. It’s one way to relax, after all being on your feet all day can get quite tiring, so why not entertain yourself?
4) Cosplay
Of course, we cannot forget about cosplay. This is pretty much one of the main reasons why people attend. Dressing up from your favourite show, game or your own character. Even if you are not into cosplay, you can’t deny the effort and time they put in to doing their makeup or making the costume. It’s also a fun way to meet other fans of the series, film or shows you’re into. Moreover, who doesn’t want to get a photo with their favourite character?
5) Take Photos and Photoshoots
Although this somewhat goes along with cosplaying nothing is stopping you from doing it in general. Have to get that top quality photo for Instagram! Nevertheless, conventions are the best place to have them and get some practice.
It’s always fun dressing up and getting to pose with someone else in a cosplay. Whether you are cosplaying from the same show or doing a crossover. How about a cute selfie? In my experience, my friends and I had photographers ask if they can take a photo. It’s one way to promote their business and gain a client for future photoshoots. Other times they just love the cosplay and do it for fun. Personally, we usually have someone in the friend group taking the photos, unless we want one of all of us in it, in which case we ask the closest person to us. Everyone is friendly so there is never a problem.
6) See and make new friends
This is probably my favourite if I’m completely honest. Nothing is more amazing then being able to see your friends again at con. Even if it’s hard to recognise each other at first, or making new friends along on the way. The last con I went to, I was able to meet with one of my online friends and seeing, as we only know each other in cosplay we recognised each other immediately. I must admit it was weird to be able to meet them in person, instead of just chatting to them online. However, the entire day was super fun!
Me (askippzer) on the left and right my friend (narut9_) on Instagram
7) Set up your own store
If you’re an artist whether it be illustrations, designing or comic book artist you can always set up your own store. Keeping in mind you will have to pay for a table, as well as to be quick, as spots get taken fast. However, one helpful tip I’ve learnt is having someone else to share a store with. That way you can both split the money of buying a table and you will have someone watching over it whilst you enjoy the rest of the con.
8) Spending Money
When you go to con, you will most likely be spending a lot of money. So one of my suggestions is to save up before the con itself. That way you can spend as much as you want
9) Events
Every convention is different so I can’t stress enough to make sure you look at the website to what convention you plan on going to. Some conventions would have events after con like 18+ panels or meetups for cosplayers during the con. I’ve personally never been to any of them so I can’t talk from personal experience. I’ve just witnessed them from Vlogs of other cosplayers.
10) Finally, just have fun!
Enjoy the con and take time for yourself when you need it. Make friends, geek about your favourite shows and relax. Having fun is the most important part!
If there’s anything I’m missing feel free to comment, but I hope this has helped give an idea on what conventions are about. Thanks for reading!