Cosplayer Etiquette During Photoshoots

Now it’s time for the photoshoot! Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your photoshoot experience.

Be prepared. The more prepared you are, the smoother the shoot will go. For a checklist of things to do to prepare for a shoot, check out my article “How to Prepare for a Cosplay Photoshoot.”
Arrive to the shoot early. Being on time is polite to your photographer, but arriving early gives you time to relax and catch your breath before the shoot starts. It also gives you time to scope out the photoshoot location.
Keep in touch. If you for some reason are running late or need to reschedule the shoot, let the photographer know as soon as possible.
If you want, bring an assistant. Having a friend around to flip your cape or hold your belongings can be great help during a shoot. Just be sure to check with the photographer beforehand to make sure they are alright with bringing extra people.
Keep the extra socializing to a minimum. If shooting at a convention you may run into a friend or two, but during the shoot is not time to chit-chat with people outside the photoshoot crew. It is rude to the photographer and also cuts down on the time spent actually taking pictures, therefore decreasing the number of pictures you get in return.
Communicate with your photographer. Let them know what’s on your mind and what you hope to get out of the shoot.
Be Flexible. The photographer knows what this finished image will look like, so listen to their suggestions if they say to change an angle or alter a pose. If a photographer suggests something you aren’t comfortable doing, let them know right away. If they continue to pressure you, you have every right to end the photoshoot and walk away.
Thank your photographer at the end of the shoot.

I hope you find these photoshoot tips helpful! If you have any more to add, let me know in the comments below!

Assistants also make good victims if you are cosplaying vampire characters! (Photo by Bahamut Night Photography)

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