The Unwritten Code

Respect is the Glue that Holds the Community Together.

Walking onto a convention floor is like stepping into a living multiverse. You see the gleaming armor of a Spartan, the flowing robes of a Jedi, and the intricate stitching of a hand-crafted Victorian gown. But beneath the foam, fabric, and spirit gum is a human being—a creator who has poured hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars into a singular vision.

At COZ Magazine, we believe that the "Cares" in our name extends to the very people who make this hobby possible. As we celebrate the art, we must also protect the artists. Convention etiquette isn't just about politeness; it’s about preserving the safety and inclusion that make cosplay a sanctuary for all.

The Gold Standard: Consent is Not Optional

The most important rule in any convention hall is simple: Cosplay is Not Consent. A costume, no matter how revealing or "accurate" to a character’s design, is never an invitation for harassment, rude comments, or uninvited touch. Whether a cosplayer is portraying a battle-hardened warrior or a bikini-clad heroine, their choice of character does not waive their right to bodily autonomy.

Furthermore, the "sneaky" photo—the candid shot taken while a cosplayer is eating, checking their phone, or mid-conversation with friends—is a violation of that person’s space. Cosplayers work tirelessly to embody these characters, often maintaining a specific "heroic" posture for hours. Capturing them in a private moment of rest or without their knowledge isn't just awkward; it’s disrespectful to the craft they’ve worked so hard to display.

The Value of the Work

For many in our community, cosplay is more than a hobby; it’s a professional side hustle or a full-time living. When a fan uses sneaky tactics to bypass a booth or a designated photo area to get a "free" shot, they aren't just being clever—they are devaluing the creator’s labor. Respecting a cosplayer’s boundaries and their business model is the only way to ensure this industry continues to thrive.

Inclusion Over "Accuracy"

Cosplay, at its heart, is about fandom and inclusion. It is a space where anyone should be able to see themselves in their favorite characters.

Comments regarding a cosplayer’s body type, ethnicity, gender, or "quality" of costume miss the entire point of the art form. When we gatekeep based on physical traits or the size of a budget, we kill the magic of the transformation. Excellence in cosplay is found in the passion of the fan, not the "correctness" of their DNA.

The Hero’s Conduct: Advice for the Creators

Respect is a two-way street. To maintain the prestige of the community, cosplayers also carry a responsibility to the public and their fellow creators.

• The Professional Decline: It is perfectly okay to say no to a photo if you are tired, eating, or simply not feeling it. The key is to do so with grace. A polite, "I'm sorry, I'm currently on a break, but I'll be back at [Location] in twenty minutes!" goes a long way.

• The Business of the Ask: If you require compensation for photos or signatures, be transparent and professional. Clear signage and a friendly explanation of your "pro" status help manage expectations and prevent awkward encounters.

• The Basics of Presence: Conventions are grueling. Prioritize your "Con Hygiene"—stay hydrated, use deodorant, and take frequent breaks. A polite and refreshed cosplayer is the best ambassador for the hobby.

• Lead with Kindness: You are the face of the character to every young fan who sees you. Be the hero they expect. A small moment of kindness can turn a fan’s "cool day" into a life-changing memory.