What happens at an anime convention is that you see almost a lot of people, if not all, dressed up in costumes of an anime character. Whether it's from a anime series, a manga (anime in japanese comic book form), or a video game, they'll be dressed up as any character. There will be at times a few non anime, manga, or video game character at the convention.
Sometimes, a few marvel super heroes will be there, like Super Girl. Alot of times, you see the most popular anime series the most cosplayed than any other anime. That goes for manga and video games as well.
When it comes to video games, you see a lot of the RPG game characters cosplayed. Good examples of RPG games are Final Fantasy series and Kingdom Hearts I, Chain of Memories, and II.
Believe it or not, there will be some Star Wars characters at the anime convention. Popular Star Wars characters would be Chubaka and a few Storm Troopers. There may be some occational Bounty Hunters there too.
It really all depends on what anime convention you're going to. Another cool thing is that it's in a lot of the States right now happening at different times. Here are some helpful tips and facts for you when you go to your first convention.
Tip & Fact:
If this is your first time going, then you'll have a blast! All of the fellow cosplayers are great and we all respect each other as a cosplayer. For those that are mean, then ignore them and be on your way. I've been to some in 3 years and not a one was rude or mean to me.
Tip & Fact:
There will be times where you'll get some weird looks here and there; however, DON'T LET THAT BOTHER YOU!!!!!!! If you let that bother you, then it'll ruin your whole fun at the convention. Now, if anyone asks you about your cosplay, then be honest and polite, that's all. If they come out and be rude to you, be firm with them, but not to where it'll cause a scene. Here's a good line for you to say, just in case if someone is mean or rude to you or about your cosplay,
"Please respect me or don't say anything at all!"
It's that simple, they'll eventually get over it.
Tip & Fact:
There will be people that doesn't like anime at all. That's fine and dandy; however, if they make fun of you because of it, then give it right back at them! Here's an example I'll give you. (Note: *= in action or acting out. In other words, what they're doing)
*cosplayer minding there own business*
Person Who doesn't like anime: *in a rude manner* OMG, what a freak! Why are you dressed up like that? You're such a freak!
Cosplayer: Okay, one, I'm pretty proud of it and two, because I want to, and three, why did you even come to something that is totally dedicated to it that you don't even like?
Person Who doesn't like anime: *in complete silence*
Again, only use that if someone that doesn't like anime that is being rude or mean to you. NEVER USE THAT ON JUST ANYONE that doesn't like anime or your anime convention experience WILL BE RUINED FOR GOOD!!!! Just because they don't like what you like, doesn't mean that they have the right to make fun of you. Always remember that.
Tip & Fact:
As for having fun, all anime conventions are different; however, there are usually different panels for different activities. Just follow whatever booklet of plans or activities guide that you have. Check for what days have what and the times for each panel.
Tip & Fact:
Okay, there's one thing that is very popular with all cosplayers, whether made or bought. That is a Cosplay contest! What this is, is that anyone that has created their cosplay by themselves, enters this contest to win prizes for their craftmanship on it.
Knowing that all anime conventions are different; they may have different rules. If you want to enter, then please follow instructions on how to enter and read their rules.
Tip & Fact:
ALWAYS respect the security and faculty that runs the convention. Whatever rules they have, just follow them and you'll be fine.
Tip & Fact:
At conventions, most of them, if not all, will have what they call a "Dealer Room." A "Dealer Room" is a place where all anime, manga, and video game fans will go to buy anime merchandise from anime stores that has a booth there.
Make sure that you save a lot of money just for that one place. I'm talking about maybe a good $100 to $200. That money will go very quick if you're not careful.
Tip & Fact:
These conventions are mostly held in fancy and expensive hotels, depending on what state the anime convention is. If you're planning to go, start saving up some serious cash for the hotel bill, your food, gas, and badges.
You have to have badges in order to attend the anime convention, unless otherwise said. The badges are or can be expensive as well as the rest, so make sure you start saving up some money until the day of the convention.
Tip & Fact:
There's a very good possiblity that you may even get a chance to meet, see, and talk with your favorite anime or video game voice actor.
Tip & Fact:
It's okay to invite random strangers that are cosplayers to eat with you or just simply chat about anime, cosplay, etc. That's the whole point of an anime convention..... is to have fun.
Here are some videos of what an anime convention is like.
MTAC 07:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bE1SoDLv27I
This is one that I've created. Enjoy!
These next two videos I didn't create. I found these and I wasn't there for them. Please enjoy!
MTAC 08: Infinity:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtX975GM0Bk
MTAC 09: Ninja:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kb66k5kfBe4
Here is a more recent convention that I went to. I also have some video clips, too. Please enjoy!
MTAC 2010: Oddyssy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ra8zoebe3yo slideshow
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRRchcWnQUYvideo clip 1- Friday
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCo7Hq5IjKQ video clip 2-Saturday
All right, this should cover it! Have a good experience at your first anime convention.
