Attending a comic con for the first time can be a strange and exciting experience. There are also a few hidden gems to be found if you’re looking for the right things. Here are some tips for first-time comic con attendees to help make sure you get the most from your experience.
CASH IS KING — Most people with items for sale on the convention floor will take cash and cards, but almost no one will take a check. Cash is your best bet because many new exhibitors don’t yet have credit processing devices like Square. ATMs are sometimes available on the convention floor or halls, but those can get cleaned out pretty fast during a busy convention. Overall, I’ve found that most exhibitors that sell high-dollar items will also take cards.
VENDORS — Depending on who’s exhibiting, you’ll find a large variety of items on the floor for sale. Keep in mind that comic book conventions tend to have an unusually high volume of collector items, and some are extremely rare and at times, irreplaceable. It’s smart to ask before handling any item on the floor, even a T-shirt or a book. Smart retailers keep priceless items out of reach of children or clumsy people, but use caution. Even something as simple as setting a soft drink down on a page of original comic book art will likely cause you trouble. Stay smart.
NETWORKING — Everyone is at a convention to network in some way or another. Exhibitors like meeting customers and fans, and many have e-newsletters, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc. Don’t be afraid to ask. Just keep in mind that unlike other business trade shows, getting contact info (or even a business card) may not be possible because actors and creators may not have an office the way most businesses do, and since there’s a strong “fan” element in this industry, they don’t want fans calling them at home. If you’re a respected professional with something genuine to offer, discuss that directly and offer YOUR business card. Perhaps there’s a chance for doing business, and if so, they’ll reach out.
PANELS — If you enjoy the work of a particular creator, celebrity, etc. be sure to make it to their panel(s). Each and every one is different and has a fair amount of information you likely won’t hear anywhere else. To this day, attending panels is still one of my favorite things to do at comic conventions. Check the PANELS schedule on the LouisianaComicCon.com website, I’m sure you’ll find a few you’ll enjoy. If you’re an aspiring creator, I’m doing a panel on the Basics of Making Comics at 12:30 in Sunday, don’t miss that one.
COMIC PROS — Comic professionals do NOT charge for autographs. I’ve heard stories about a lone creator doing this, but in all my years attending conventions I’ve never seen it happen in person. Still, when it does happens, it is extremely rare so don’t sweat it. Go ahead and haul your comics in to have them signed by your favorite creator for free. It’s perfect acceptable and you’ll often find the creators are grateful you support their work and you made the effort to bring them in. The exception to paid signatures would be if a retailer or collector walks in with a BOX of comics to be signed. Often, there’s a small fee per signature because it takes a ton of time to sign a box of 200 comics.
Many comic artists will offer what’s called a “COMMISSION.” A commission is when you pay an artist to draw something specifically for you, and there’s an agreed upon price for this drawing. When it’s done, you own it and you can get it framed, or start a sketchbook of drawings from all your favorite artists. It’s yours. The price will vary greatly depending on that creator’s way of doing it, so just ask and they’ll be happy to discuss. You’re paying for a unique piece, so don’t expect edits or revisions. Just know that it’s ONE OF A KIND and that’s what makes it awesome. Some will do full ink and color, others will only do quick pencil sketches, there’s a big range of possibilities. Just note, the copyright and trademark of popular characters still remains with the creators and/or publishers so you do NOT have reprint or publication rights. You can show it online, put it on Facebook, you just can’t sell copies.
If you’re an aspiring comic creator, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Comic creators tend to be incredibly generous with information and advice because along the way, they received that same advice from someone else. Just remember to always be respectful of a creator’s time and make room for table traffic at active tables.
ACTORS AND CELEBRITIES — Unlike comic creators, actors and celebrities don’t usually have comic books to promote, and typically they don’t own the entertainment content they work on. The ONLY way for then to make time for an appearance is to charge a small fee for autographs and photos. Still, many will gladly sign something for free or pose for a quick photo with you, others may charge a few bucks for the opportunity. It’s always best to ask first. They’ll likely have photos available for purchase at their tables, and on occasion, posters and other merchandise. Nearly every celebrity or actor I’ve met at conventions has been courteous and friendly. They all attend conventions for one reason, to meet their fans. So get in there and make it happen.
COSPLAYERS — You’ll likely see professional and amateur cosplayers at the Louisiana Comic Con. Most don’t mind if you snap a photo while they’re walking the floor of the convention, but you’re usually better off asking first since most will happily strike a pose and hold in position so you can get a great shot. If the cosplayer happens to be a little kid, ask the parent if you can snap a photo, not the kid. Just remember, cosplayers are at the convention to have fun and most work very hard on their costumes, so a compliment is usually fine and welcomed, just don’t be a creep.
SOCIAL MEDIA — Having a local comic con of this quality in Lafayette is kind of a big deal, and conventions are very expensive to organize and promote. The truth is that many conventions don’t survive past the first few years. You can help build this into a strong recurring event each and every year by spreading the word and pulling in as many people as you can. During the event, post photos and info on social media to help spread the word, and do your best to make your friends jealous for missing out on the fun.
More about Kody Chamberlain at his website kodychamberlain.com
