At conventions, I have heard some comic book fans discourage attendees who were simply there to cosplay. Some comic book fans believe comic-cons should only be attended by those who read and/or collect comics. Whenever I hear cosplayers being discouraged, I make sure I speak up.
Cosplayers at 2011 Detroit Fanfare
Inclusive
One of the major lessons learned in the pages of comic book is inclusion. Readers should learn that characters like those found in the X-Men should teach us to respect each other despite our differences. Comic book conventions should be the same way. While the majority of guests are going to attend to see what types of deals they can find or which of their idols will be in attendance, but there are those who will attend simply to cosplay or see the celebrities in attendance. All should be allowed.
Cosplayers at 2011 Detroit Fanfare
Growth
Cosplayers have helped conventions grow over the years. Online slideshows of pretty women in superhero or other costumes can entice fans into going to particular conventions. The more people a convention can draw the more money it can make. This leads to bigger guests being invited and grander events taking place. If you want your local convention to have the chance of competing with a larger con one day, encourage the cosplayers when you see them.
Enjoyment
Even though I do not cosplay myself, I look forward to seeing cosplayers whenever I head to a convention. Many other attendees will look forward to seeing cosplayers as well. Pay attention to someone with a tremendous costume as see how many people attempt to take a picture of the costume, or with the cosplayer. You might be surprised by how much enjoyment costumed-attendees give. The more enjoyable a con, the more people will return in the future to ensure the long-term stability of the convention.
What Cosplay Can Lead To For Cosplayers
I know many cosplayers who have ended up becoming interested in comics by attending conventions. Every new fan the industry can interest makes the industry slightly stronger. Why wouldn’t you want the industry you love to grow stronger?
