Survive the Crowds and Reap the Spoils
Hey, move it or lose it! If you’ve never been to a comic convention before, it can seem like a rowdy crowd of angry fanboys. (Heck, even if you have been to one before.) But among the endless lines and heartbreaking prices is a promised land of friendship and talented artists. Come with us as we navigate the crowds and go through the pros and cons of conventions!
1. There are People Everywhere
Not every convention is made the same, but most are loaded with people. If you’ve never been before, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the crowds. To make matters worse, you’re likely surrounded by rambunctious fans, most of whom have been to one before. It’s sort of like flying for the first time—everyone knows proper etiquette while you flounder between booths.
2. Lines, Lines, Lines
Oh, you want an autograph? Line. You’d like to go to the bathroom? Line. You want to look at someone’s booth? Another line. Like it or not, conventions are filled to the brim with fans and artists alike, often drawing in thousands of people. Wear comfortable shoes and prepare to stand around.
3. Obvious eBay “Collectors”
You might not spot them if it’s your first rodeo, but experienced con-goers see the suckers a mile away. They always have a laundry list of items to get signed, all ready to hit eBay listings later that day. They look like hardcore fans, but they’re just hardcore hustlers.
4. They’re Super Expensive
Boy, we hope you have money in your pocket because no con comes cheap! Whether you’re looking to grab some awesome artwork or a simple bite to eat, convention prices are no joke. It’s even steeper if you plan to meet your fave celeb.
5. People Cutting in Line
With so many people in one place, lines become a thing of the past. Panels and autograph booths alike are plagued with multiple lines—and that means willy-nilly placement. Don’t be surprised if someone cuts in front of you.
© Ra Boe / Wikipedia on Wikimedia
6. Questions That are Really Monologues
Panels are exciting! You get to listen to your favorite creators and watch in real-time as they answer thoughtful audience questions. You also get to watch as people stagger up to the mic and monologue their life story. Please, we beg of you, just ask your question.
7. Pushy People
Though most fans know proper con etiquette, not everyone got the memo. Some people just love pushing past you to get to booths. They also love breathing down your neck as you rifle through a box of comics. Try as you may, there’s always a little devil on your shoulder.
© Ra Boe / Wikipedia on Wikimedia
8. Scalpers Ruin the Fun
Scalpers are the scourge of society, but don’t expect safety at a convention. With all that merchandise ripe for the plucking, you bet scalpers are there to hoard collectibles and tickets. Don’t worry, they’re still available—for a price.
9. The Classic Con Crash
In an ideal world, cons are a one-and-done event that leave you buzzing with excitement. In the real world, they span multiple days and tend to wear us down. You may have that autograph and collectible action figure, but your feet will throb by the end of it.
10. It’s Overwhelming
Even frequent goers know how overwhelming cons can be. But if it’s your first time? You’re staring at the business end of a nightmare. The best thing to do is prepare yourself and read the itinerary beforehand! You can always go in blind, but that’s a great way to get lost in the crowd.
The Conmunity - Pop Culture Geek from Los Angeles, CA, USA on Wikimedia
Don’t get it twisted! Comic conventions have plenty to offer fans as well. Now that we’ve made our way through the weeds, let’s dive into every reason they’re worth the trouble.
1. You Can Meet Your Favorite Creators
From comic artists to voice actors, comic conventions bring serious star power. You might have to wait all day to meet them, but that four-hour line is a small price to pay for a life-changing experience. There’s also nothing better than your fave celeb remembering you from a previous convention!
Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America on Wikimedia
2. Buying Retro Comics
Do you have a 40-year-old comic on the brain? Chances are, you’ll find it at a convention. Hundreds of boxes carry thousands of comics, giving you a chance to find that rare title from childhood. Depending on which one you grab, they probably won’t cost that much either.
3. A Chance to Show Off Your Cosplay
Conventions are the perfect place to display your hard work! Cosplayers help make the event what it is, and you’ll see some jaw-dropping craftsmanship. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to cosplay either; you’re in the right place.
4. Meeting New Fandom Friends
People misconstrue cons—it’s not all Marvel fanboys or Batman cosplayers. Comic conventions bring every fandom together! It’s a great place to meet like-minded people or introduce yourself to totally new series.
5. You Can Get Custom Artwork
One of the coolest things about comic conventions is meeting all the artists. We’re not talking about famous creators either! We’re talking about the little guy, the insanely talented artist available for hire or commissioned work. Custom pieces and caricatures await at nearly every con.
Airman 1st Class Timothy Kim on Wikimedia
6. Celebrity Panels
Okay, so, you may not shake a panelist’s hand, but you can still ask questions to those who inspire you. You’ll meet your favorite voice actors or childhood heroes, all without a hefty price tag.
7. Scoring Photos and Autographs
If you have a little money burning a hole in your pocket, it might be time for an autograph! Standing in line isn’t for everyone, and not every fan wants to dump hundreds of dollars on a picture. But for those truly moved by someone’s art, meeting them in person is an unmatched experience.
8. All the Awesome Merchandise
No, we’re not talking about Funko Pops (don’t even get us started). Comic cons have a rich variety of merchandise available, available in a wide range of price points. Custom art pieces, indie books, rare collectibles, and hilarious tchotchkes await!
9. There’s Something for Everyone
It’s okay if you’re only there for the books. It’s also okay if you’re only there for an hour. Comic conventions offer all sorts of fun for every attendee, no matter what your version of fun looks like. It’s a great way to spend the day with friends, meet new ones, or cruise the artwork by yourself.
10. You Can Meet Other Artists
What better way to hone in on your craft than by meeting other artists? Writers and comic artists alike are more than happy to answer any questions and talk shop with you. It’s also an amazing way to learn about local talent and support each other’s work!
