Primary Source: Naka-Kon & Google AI

• COSPLAY IS NOT CONSENT!

• Must have a proper camera - not just cell phone.

• Social media presence: You must have at least one public social media account (like Instagram) or website that displays your work. Posting YOUR best images with appropriate text, hashtags, and tagging people in the photo validates your effort as a photographer. No specific follower count required.

• Before taking the photo:

  • Ask for permission:

    Always get permission from the cosplayer before taking their photo. It's respectful and ensures they're comfortable being photographed. Don't take photos of a cosplayer if they don't want one. If they deny your request for photos, respect their decision without negative comments or behaviors.

  • Be mindful of their costume:

    Consider the cosplayer's costume and how it might be affected by the photo shoot (e.g., props, delicate materials, angles of view). 

  • Don't touch without consent:

    Respect the cosplayer's personal space. Avoid touching them without their permission. 

  • Avoid inappropriate and unrelated “compliments”:

    Focus on the cosplay itself, not the cosplayer's personal / natural physical appearance that are suggestive in nature. 

  • Avoid areas with low/no visibility:

    Always stay in the sight of others during a shoot, for your safety and theirs.

  During the photo shoot:

  • Avoid flash during contests: Using flash or auto-focus assist lights during cosplay contests can make it difficult for cosplayers to see, according to Naka-Kon. 

  • Don't block walkways or exits: Always allow cosplayers a direct path to leave at any moment. Also, be mindful of your equipment to avoid blocking walkways.

  • Be respectful: Maintain a respectful and positive attitude throughout the photo shoot. 

  • Consider the lighting: Choose appropriate lighting for the photo and the cosplayer's costume. 

  • Previews can be helpful: It’s helpful to show the cosplayer your first few shots to make sure they’re happy with their appearance and your shooting style.

  • Abide by their requests: Delete any photos that misrepresent them or are too personal. When a cosplayer is satisfied with the amount of time spent with you thank them for their time and enjoy the rest of your event time.

Primary Source: Naka-Kon

• Be aware of your cosplay: When in a large costume or in a costume with protruding elements (like wings, tails, etc.). If you cannot see well, make sure you have a friend to help make sure your pathways are clear.

• If asked for a photo, move out of the flow of traffic, against a wall, or to a less common area.

• If you are wearing extensive makeup or body paint, seal it properly. You don’t want to be in a situation where you cause damage to something (e.g., the pool, hotel or convention center decorations, etc.).

• Do not use being “in character” as an excuse to be a jerk, make lewd or suggestive comments, or physically or verbally bother someone. The harassment policy still applies to you, regardless of who you are dressed as.

• Respect all humankind: Avoid wearing costumes that are offensive or disrespectful to any group, culture, or people or that represent real-world hate, harm, and danger. This includes darkening your skin to match that of an existing race, wearing Nazi regalia, etc.

• Respect your fellow cosplayer: Show kindness to cosplayers of all experience levels - avoid negative comments or unwanted / unsolicited advice. In short: be polite, positive and friendly!

• Be respectful to fans, photographers or anyone else seeking your attention: Show kindness and patience - no matter how many followers you have or how much money you spend on your cosplay, that has nothing to do with the way you treat people around you. Remember, we’re all here for a positive and creative social experience. Be polite.

COSPLAY CONTEST ETIQUETTE:

• Green Room / Ready-Area Photography: You are welcome to politely refuse photography if you do not wish to be photographed while preparing for the contest.

• Please remember that the Cosplay contest ready-area is a collective space with a lot of nervous energy. When in the Cosplay Green Room, please be mindful of your noise level, how much space you are taking up, as well as the content of your conversations.

• You may want feedback from the judges after the Cosplay Contest. Some judges may not be comfortable providing that feedback immediately after the cosplay contest, so we recommend attending the Cosplay Contest Feedback Panel (see the schedule for details).

• Be respectful of the judges’ decisions. Being rude, disrespectful, or otherwise hostile toward the judges after the results of a Cosplay Contest may result in your ineligibility to compete in the cosplay contest in future years. If you feel a call was made due to unjust circumstances, please contact the Cosplay Contest Directors with evidence.

• COSPLAY IS NOT CONSENT!

• Be respectful in your words and behaviors

• Allow a comfortable personal space between you and cosplayers when meeting and greeting.

• Respect cosplayers’ and other guests’ wishes - no means no.

• Do not touch cosplayers in anyway without prior permission, even if just trying to get their attention.