Cosplay Do's and Don'ts: Part 3
Back with more cosplay tips for potential cosplayers
As I prepare to attend my final convention as a cosplayer later on this month, I'm back to share some more cosplay do's and don'ts on here. It's been five years since I posted Part two of these helpful cosplay tips. Yes, I know it's been a long time, but I'm back to assist you. If you would like to read the first two parts of my own cosplay do's and don'ts, the links are down below:
1. Do be mindful of the Cosplay Is Not Consent rule at cons
2. Do wear your con badges and wristbands at all times
Don't enter a con without either one
3. Do pay your cosplay craftspeople and/or costume designers for their services
Don't disrespect them in any way.
4. Do have some money for food and drinks
Don't go through a day at a con without eating or drinking
5. Do post your cosplay pics and videos on social media
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP88f5wcP/
During the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, I didn't attend cons for the first time ever. So I've spent my time in quarantine making cosplay videos. This was around the time my cosplay videos on TikTok have gotten a lot of attention, which I appreciated very much. If you just started to do cosplay or have an interest in doing it, I highly encourage you to post all those pictures and videos online. Whether you're doing those things at home or at cons, it's up to you and display those cosplays with pride.
Don't worry about what others think of you
I've unfortunately been a target of racist and homophobic comments online, which I've had to endure for years. As a cosplayer of color, this is an unfortunate and ugly truth of being someone who's doing nothing but brightening someone's day. Some have told me that I'm the wrong race or body type for a specific cosplay. Last time I checked, cosplay is not about being accurate. It's all about having fun in the cosplays you choose to do. If you're facing ugly trolls online, don't be afraid to stand up to them and show them that you belong in this wonderful cosplay community. You're perfect the way you are and if they don't see that, that's their problem and not yours.
5. Do know that it's okay to take a break from cosplay
Over the years, I've had to take breaks from cosplay for weeks, even months at a time due to either bullying online or just to take care of myself mentally. Always remember that it's NEVER selfish to look after yourself, when necessary. It's an opportunity for you to have some time to yourself.
Don't feel pressured to cosplay at the expense of your own mental health
Taking on too many tasks at once is a recipe for disaster, especially a mental breakdown. I remember one time a guy on Facebook asked me if I wanted to dress up as the Blue Ranger for a con that he was attending. I politely said no several times, because I was going through some very difficult times. Instead of him respecting my boundaries, he constantly kept on messaging me. That's when I decided to block him on Facebook, because it became too much for me to handle. If something feels uncomfortable to you, don't do it. Your mental well-being is your main priority.
If you liked this story or any story I've written, please subscribe to my page and consider sending me a one-off tip at the end of this story to support my content on Vocal. Happy cosplaying!
About the Creator
Mark Wesley Pritchard
You can call me Wesley. Former cosplayer, retro gaming fanatic, die-hard Texas Rangers fan, and nostalgic freak. Need I say more?
Threads: @misterwesleysworld
Instagram: @misterwesleysworld
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