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Dear The Magic Rain Team,
It’s great that many cosplayers believe that the hobby is all about having fun while trying one’s best to portray their favourite character, but sometimes I wish I could approach photographers to help me snap a few nice photos for my own keepsake. I don’t mind not being recognised by anyone (cosers or photogs) whenever I attend a convention, though sometimes, I just feel like it’s such a shame that I don’t have nice photos to showcase the hard work I’ve put into churning out the props and spending an exorbitant amount of money commissioning the costumes.
How do I approach photographers without putting them in a spot? I’m not the prettiest person out there and by no means am I slim or slender (fat would be a suitable word). I understand and respect photographers’ choice to shoot better-looking cosplayers or their friends because it’s their right to choose who they would like to work with. Is there a polite way of asking them if they’re interested in collaborating with you?
Sincerely,
Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
I really admire your mindset regarding this matter. We definitely see a rising trend, perhaps now more obvious than before, that cosplayers with visuals and good looks get swarmed with loads of cameras in their faces at events. Unfortunately, this also means that not many people may recognize or acknowledge the hard work some cosplayers put into making their own props and costumes.
I sincerely believe that there are indeed photographers out there who are keen on taking pictures of good cosplays regardless of cosplayers’ looks or body sizes. If you want to approach a photographer at a convention, approach them when they are not busy taking photos of others (or whenever they seem relatively free) and politely ask them if they would spare some time to help you take photos. I have heard some cosplay photographers admit that they would be happy if cosplayers approached them to for photos too!
If they decline, don’t take it personally and move on to ask another photographer. There are lots of cosplay photographers in our community now so if you do happen to meet a few who are more judgemental than others, don’t let a few rotten eggs ruin the whole basket! Keep on trying and don’t give up on approaching new photographers. You may even end up making new friends along the way.
If you are interested to find out how to approach photographers for photoshoots, Miss Scrumptious gives you a detailed breakdown on the How To’s in one of our previous entries here: https://themagicrain.com/2017/03/cosers-confess-how-do-i-approach-photographers/
I wish you the best of luck and happy cosplaying!
Sincerely,
Ms. Universe
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