Oh my kryptonite, it’s that time again where everyone calls in sick to work to attend the Indiana Comic Con. Don’t act like you haven’t done it before… ICC is back and this year it’s bringing some big guns with top celebs and comic book artists.

 

Now if this is your first ICC, welcome. There’s a few things you’ll want to know before you go so you can con like a pro. I met with ICC (also TBCC) Co-Owner Stephen Solomon, the infamous Mickey Flint (Cosplayer and Steampunk fashion designer), Josh Duart (Cosplayer and costumer with a degree in fashion), Steve Fitch (Editor of Legendarium Media), and Kareem Ali (Comic book reviewer at The Hulking Reviewer) to find out the best tips for surviving ICC. Then of course there’s me, the Q&A expert. From Cosplay to Q&A’s, these are the deets on bringing your A game.

 

How to Survive a Comic Con like a Pro

For All You Cosplayers Out There

From Cosplay Pro Mickey Flint you can follow his fan page here

Tampa Bay Comic Con Review
Another great lineup. Cosplayer Mickey Flint and friends!

 

1. Bring extras!

 

Bring extra batteries, glue, makeup touch up always. You don’t want to be stuck in a situation where only 95% of you looks amazing and the other 5% of you is falling apart.

 

2. Make hidden pockets in all your cosplays

 

This is perfect for stashing said extras and some small items to snack on during the day. You’d be surprised how tired and hungry you can get from taking pictures all day.

 

3. Eat a BIG breakfast

 

And try to eat small non perishable snacks (see tip 2). This will keep you fueled and make your evening less of a crash and more of a party. Con food can get pricey and it’s not usually amazing. You may be better off getting a late lunch somewhere you actually want to spend your dinero.

 

4. Use alcohol based makeup

 

Cream or water based makeup rubs and gets messed up. The alcohol based makeup lasts for days and will not rub off on your cosplay.

 

5. Have business cards

 

You’ll want to network with other cosplayers. Always have something with your contact info to give out to fellow cosplayers and fans.

 

For All the Cosplay Spectators

 

Tampa Bay Comic Con Review
There’s no shortage of creative here.

 

6. BE PATIENT

 

Remember this is the picture YOU want to take, not the cosplayer. You may have to wait your turn. You can always pass them by if you don’t want to wait… but you know you want that pic with Chewbacca who you kidding!

 

7. Don’t ask for specific poses

 

And don’t take 5 minutes to take 50 photos. You’re not the only person who wants the picture. Be mindful of others who are waiting.

 

8. Be respectful of the other people

 

Don’t just walk in front of others taking pictures. You will see a lot of picture taking. Be mindful of where you’re walking.

 

From Cosplayer and costumer Josh Duart you can follow him here