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On this episode of TransMissions Extra!, we talk cosplay at conventions. Do we enjoy it? Do we participate? What’s the difference between a “professional” and “amateur” cosplayer? After you hear our thoughts on cosplay, let us know yours in the comments!
What is TransMissions Extra!?
We usually spend the first 30 minutes of our TransMissions Skype call talking about other random topics before we record the main show. TransMissions Extra! is a more organized discussion of these topics recorded into a short podcast of its own. We hope you enjoy TransMissions Extra!
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Show Notes:
- Fan Expo Canada
- Featured Guests (Cosplay guests at the bottom of the page)
- Darryl as Jake Dalrymple at TFcon Toronto 2014
- Cybertronic Spree
- “Cosplay Does Not Equal Consent”
- Comi-Con Episode IV: A Fan’s Hope
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Interesting choice of topic again. I don’t cosplay myself (except for that time I went to a halloween party, dressed as Darth Maul), but I do think that they are a big part of making conventions fun. And if there are those that do it professionally and make money with it, then that’s fine by me. As long as there are people out there that are willing to pay for a picture with one of these pretty girls, than I don’t see why not. Personally, I like to express myself more by wearing shirts of my favorite franchises or with some of my tattoo’s that are comic/sci-fi related, but cosplaying is definitely a great way of expressing that appreciation as well. So respect to all the people out there that are putting a lot of time and effort into their costumes!
Regarding professional cosplay, ie cosplay that makes a profit for the artist. Cosplay can be costly and take a lot of time, effort and skill to put together. The makeup alone in some cases is extraordinary. It should be called professional, regardless of whether there’s profit involved. Whether cosplayers do it purely as a hobby or whether it’s linked in some way to their day job, for those who do it regularly, it’s a serious commitment. A lot of people make money from what they love (including podcasters) if they put the effort into it and turn out to be good at it and I don’t see anything wrong with that, as long as they’re not breaching any copyrights or ripping anyone off (and for me, as long as they’re not just in it for the money, but I very much doubt there’s that much money in cosplay).
Now, if we’re saying that super cosplayers might be putting casual cosplayers off, I kind of get that, but I really hope that’s not the case. In every con I’ve been to, cosplay quality has tended to vary wildly and there’s room for everyone to have fun, express themselves and pay homage to their favourite characters or franchises. As an observer, I appreciate the ‘boring’ cosplay just as much as the ‘wow!’ (probably because I can’t do either) and can admire both for what they are. As long as nobody’s hurting anyone, there’s plenty or room in geekdom to live and let live, so if paying for pictures with famous fans is not your thing, be glad for the extra money in your pocket and put it aside for Carnifex.
Marian
Very Interesting topic !! Charles would be a good Bulkhead , and Jeremy would be a nice fit got GB . Yoshi should go as a hardcore street thugish Yoshi !!
But I will just leave this here for you guys to enjoy!! I have to admit this is pretty cool !!!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9O9tDB8TTTg
Really interesting topic. I could write a whole essay on this topic….I’ll try and keep it short.
I just attended the Edmonton Expo and the amount,variety and quality of cosplay was insane. Everything from an older gentleman pulling off an amazing Kingpin to cute kids in their Ironman PJ’s with a little face paint. I’ll say this that I complimented EVERY cosplayer that came by my booth regardless of how good it was male or female. They are clearly more comfortable in there confidence to dress up. Now there where great costumes and really terrible ones.
There was signs all over saying “cosplay doesn’t mean consent”. Which at first made zero sense to me till I figured out what they where getting at. To me it’s sad that it has to be said that people need to be told that. It’s just common sense. Just cause guys and gals dress up doesn’t mean you can touch them.
As for people who consider themselves professionals, well if someone is going to pay you $20 for an autographed print all the power to you. It comes down to “sex sells” and attractive women that are ok with that can take advantage of it. Right or wrong it’s just the reality. Sure you have to cover your costs like photographers, prints, costumes, time and other expenses. Personally my favorite cosplayer (semi pro) is E-Town Spidey. He does it in his spare time and has done a ton of charity work.
In the end I’m guessing the cosplayers know there is a small amount of negative attention that they’ll get but they must experience far more positive attention that makes it work it for them.