/cgl/ - Cosplay & EGL

Don't be creepy
Don't get handsy
Practice. A lot.
Look like you know what you're doing.

"hey do you want to shoot?" works in most cases. if you aren't a walking disaster they'll probably say yes. if you are a total social retard and show it they might say no. appearance counts because honestly humanity is shallow especially on first contact.

You'd think this would go without saying, but if you get a cosplayer's contact info for the sake of meeting up for a shoot/sending pics later, dont start using this contact info for non shoot-related things. The number of times I've had to give a photog my cell # for contact at a con just in case and then they've started trying to message me about personal stuff all the time is honestly really unsettling. I'm super hesitant giving out contact info now, even though it's usually pretty necessary, because so many seem to take it as an invitation afterwards, no matter how clear I am that it's for business purposes. Don't be that guy.

As for do's, make sure you have some business cards on hand so people can find your stuff afterwards, even if you've just printed them out on printer paper at home!

Try not to do too much over the top editing if you're inexperienced (or do it for practice on the copies you're not sending out); a really nice photo can otherwise be ruined by someone inexperienced messing around with image saturation too much or really obviously/awkwardly photoshopping part of the image.

And definitely do look up the character in advance when possible! Having an idea of the general tone, setting and mannerisms of the character will help you get more fitting shots, as well as helps you research pose and angle ideas you can suggest during the shoot.

>>9718339
>because so many seem to take it as an invitation afterwards, no matter how clear I am that it's for business purposes. Don't be that guy.

So I take it that photo doing wont and shouldnt lead to any personal contacts outside purely professional approach of photographer-model?

>>9718494
its fine to be friends if both parties are open to it but don't go and start messaging them weird shit out of the blue. facebook is probably a better venue for general interactions because you can comment on their posts and whatnot

>>9718538

I dont have facebook account, however. I dont know either if another person is "open" as you said but wondered if it is very forbidden to ask about the person themselves after they reply to initial message and invite for cafe or something after few messages exchange.

Im sorry, maybe it was mean from me to plan to find relationship that way. It wont change the pleasure from photomaking, however.

>>9718549
It's misleading and creepy to ask someone out on a date when they gave their contact details purely for a shoot.

>>9718549
Don't use con photography to try and pickup dates.

>>9718549
>Im sorry, maybe it was mean from me to plan to find relationship that way.

Thirding the other anons. PLEASE DON'T DO THIS. Cosplay photographers already have a bad reputation.

>>9718549
>maybe it was mean from me to plan to find relationship that way
Honestly, yeah. I can't speak for everyone, but it comes off as kind of underhanded, at least to me.
Like if they add me on social media and comment on posts/interact that way/message through fb it doesn't bother me much, or if we chat and get along really well in person and mutually agree to keep in touch/get together outside of cosplay that's all well and good. I've made a couple good photog friends that way!

But it comes off completely differently when a photog starts texting my private cellphone number out of the blue like the next week without asking because they're lonely, asking about boyfriends etc. I'll usually try to politely explain I'm not comfortable with that (and for that matter not single either) and what would be more appropriate, and if they persist then honestly it's just a block. I know it might seem harsh but I'll always explain and give a fair chance first, and it honestly just happens enough that my patience for it is wearing a bit thin.

I can understand finding someone attractive and wanting to ask them out, and I hold nothing against anyone for that, but like you wouldn't start texting a client or coworker whose number you got from company paperwork would you? Even though you do have access to that number, suddenly using it for personal matters without asking would be seen as pretty creepy. It's the same sort of thing for photography. Just keep that in mind, and you'll be fine.

>>9718653
>>9718664
>>9718674

I just wanted friends, not dates. Sorry if this sound bad, I didnt want to offend anybody or make anybody feel bad, really sorry.

>>9718690

Again, I didnt want to be mean or creepy or anything or offensive. Just like photography, Im slowly learning how to act around people, talk to others and so on. Thats why Im asking so much.

Im really sorry again, I will keep your warning in mind all the time.

>>9718653
Don't be a Eugene Manning/EMCP

Vice versa, how do people approach cosplay photographers for shoots? I have pretty decent cosplays (always get a ton of pics taken out on the floor) but I’ve never had an actual shoot. I’m really shy so I don’t even know how to start really, but I want some nicer photos taken.

>>9719659
Check the con’s tag on instagram and maybe tumblr if that site isn’t dead yet and join groups for the con on fb. Photographers will typically be advertising their services, just be sure to see their portfolio of work before you book anything with them.

>>9719611

Again, I never wanted ANYTHING malicious, creepy or otherwise offensive. Im sorry again and I will always remember to NEVER go outside purely professional work. One warning from you is enough.

>>9719659

I thought its hard for the other side but I guess that after you get random shot at con/event, simply ask the photographer if he/she can make more pictures in better place - from what I heard, bigger cons have photo studios or rooms dedicated for that. There are photographers at cons that are doing it more professionally and actually makes photo sessions, especially if they also host a site with their works. Lastly, I heard that there are groups on social medias where both photographers who are just starting building their portfolio announce their search for models and cosplayers announce their willing to pose.

I would say that doing it at cons is safest, especially after what I heard already (I mean, I wouldnt expect people in fandom to have malicious goals but maybe thats just the nature of fandom in my country, being rather small).

If I may still ask - and Im sorry again for that question - whats your opinion on idea of actually showing the taken picture to cosplayer after making it? I heard about it lately, with suggestion that it benefits both sides, as photographer might get more info about what exactly should the photo look like and what the model expect, coslayer might want to try different pose if they find the one not satisfying and the like.

Also, what about the events when you actually cant ask for posing because of, for example, ongoing performance?

>>9718159
Photographers should NEVER under any circumstance approach a cosplayer.

Cosplayers already have pre-arranged for photo shoots most likely if they are someone important, and if they aren't they don't want amateurish photos snapped of them and shared or made use of without their consent.

Photogs shouldn't even try talking to cosplayers since they are usually just mouthbreathing nerds and disgusting human beings. I rue the day when photographers are replaced by robots so the real stars can mingle amognst each other without having to deal with them

Ask "Can I take your picture?"
What are they gonna do, say no?

Your camera is a loaded gun my man and you decide who lives and dies in the cosplay fame world

>>9720012

>What are they gonna do, say no?

If they dont want to, I guess so? Thats why you ask first.

>>9720007

Now Im confused ;_;

>>9720018
Dont' worry this person >>9720007
Is just an over-entitled diva who thinks she's hot shit or got burned by ONE shitty photographer and thinks all photographers are like that.

You CAN approach cosplayers and ask to take their picture politely, there's nothing wrong with that.

>>9718653
Damn straight.
>>9718494
If you want to be friends sure, I mean I have like a lot of cosplay friends who I also hang out with, but like, I have a policy. When someone trusts me with their phone number I treat it like I do my work cellphone. I only text for photoshoot related things (We are meeting here, I am here, an image of the site, It was nice shooting with you, your images are up on my website for pre edit approval), that sort of thing. Don't be EMCP

>>9720007
kys my main anon

>>9718159
Don't be a dick is all I can say.

Ask nicely and if they say no move to the next person.
If they give you contact info don't use it for any other reason then to do a shoot.

Also only use contact info they provided to explain slow process on photos or for planning.

Don't butt into their shoot and always ask.(I seen this a lot with people handing out contact cards).

Dress nicely. So look clean, shaved and don't smell. It helps a lot as everyone judges you by how you look.

Gear matters a bit. In short everyone will think a DSLR is better then a cell phone. Regradless how old the DSLR looks. When I went full frame a lot of cosplayers started to ask if I wanted to do shoots over my apc-c mirrorless. I know crazy however bigger does help!

Also if they are on the phone, eating, talking to someone that seems more then a simple chat. I recommend walking away. Only because they could be annoyed or ignore you.

Also age kind of matters. If your like 30 years old and you try to do shoots with 14 year old may not be the best idea. Just say.

>>9720007
yeah no, I'm pretty much always excited and flattered to be approached by a photog; and like if you're not, you can always say no?
People are always taking hall shots of cosplayers anyways; provided they're not taking up a ridiculpus amount of your time, asking ay an obviously bad time or taking you off-location I dont see how a photog asking is any different then a random congoer doing so, aside from better pic quality

>>9720095
>>9720007
oh wait nvm i just read the rest of this sorry, thought it was a serious post at first

>>9720018
>If they dont want to, I guess so?
I think there might be a bit of a language barrier here: anon here >>9720012
was mainly trying to say that the worst that happens is they say no, so you shouldnt feel afraid to ask

>>9720087
>Gear matters a bit. In short everyone will think a DSLR is better then a cell phone.

Its actually a problem for me, since I have compact instead, OP pic one. I cant really afford DSLR.

>Also age kind of matters. If your like 30 years old and you try to do shoots with 14 year old may not be the best idea. Just say.

Of course, I think it goes without question. Thats also why I try to get a little better while Im still in 20s, since at 30 I guess I will be too old.

Focusing solely on studies like everyone around was saying was truly bad idea.

Actually, even if I lack skills yet, but act polite and avoid anything offensive, do you think that doing cosplay photos at cons, especially small ones with little amount of photographers is pleasant for models? I mean, if that could make them happy? Because I actually deeply enjoy making people feel better, even slightly

>>9719690
Sorry, dude. I totally misinterpreted what you meant by relationship. Trying to make cosplay friends is fine but you can't force it. Sometimes through shooting you'll become someone's friend because your personalities mesh well but that's not going to be the case most of the time.

I wouldn't shoot with someone I met at a con, personally. But I'm a pro model in real life and photographers pay me to work with me, so I don't want to do my job for free if that makes sense. Most cosplayers just want some nice pictures of their cosplays for Facebook and Instagram so if you can deliver that, there's no harm in asking for a shoot.

>>9720331
>Its actually a problem for me, since I have compact instead, OP pic one. I cant really afford DSLR.

You likely know which cosplayers are big in your area. Ask the lesser known ones then. More often then not they will be willing to pose and work with you for a bit. Its what I did with my old camera.

>Actually, even if I lack skills yet, but act polite and avoid anything offensive, do you think that doing cosplay photos at cons, especially small ones with little amount of photographers is pleasant for models? I mean, if that could make them happy? Because I actually deeply enjoy making people feel better, even slightly

Regardless of skill most people like getting their picture taken if they are in cosplay. I never heard of a cosplayer hate having their picture taken when asked. If you want them to feel happy during the shoot then show what pictures you take of them. Even the derp ones. You both will get a laugh out of it and it will make the shoot more enjoyable. Also be happy about your work. If you say you suck the cosplayer may not want to work with you again. It matters how you view yourself(your work).

This one guy photographed me and my friend, he took a shot of me and said 'Oooh, that's a bad one.' I know he was probably talking about the lighting or something but ouch. What I'm trying to say is, watch what sort of language you use. If a shot doesn't turn out great, take another one or ask the subject to step into a different light or background.

>>9720352

Thats okay. I must admit that I almost completely lack social experience or skills (due to not working on shyness and other related problems, not even being aware of seriousness of the problem) which is also the reason why Im asking so much - to avoid doing something bad.

For example, without your suggestions and warnings I would actually try to send casual questions to cosplayers I got contact for but never received reply after sending photos - thats what people outside the fandom would suggest. But now I know its wrong and wont do that mistake.

I always try to do "research" beforehand, its safe solution.

>>9720377

In other words, be constructive aka instead of saying "this shoot went out bad (because I messed up settings/lighting)" I should say "I think we should try different lighting/background for better effect" or something like that, right?

>>9720361

>You likely know which cosplayers are big in your area

Actually I dont. I know only about cons going around, but whole anime related interest is something I came back for, after very long studies-related break. I always admired cosplayers and their dedication to costume-making, that whole hard work and fun they have with it. And since I started to enjoy making amateur photos at some point, I figured that I could combine the two.

>It matters how you view yourself(your work)

I actually have very low self-esteem so I guess I simply wont mention that.

I'm getting very tired of doing hallshots.

Can I just walk up to a random cosplayer and ask them if they wanna do a short, small shoot at a nearby location?

>>9718159
I had a photographer take my photos all three days of a con. Later that year I saw him at another con.
Never got the photos even though I was very polite and only asked a few times for them.
Don't be that guy.

Why is this so difficult? Cosplayers are people too, just don't be awkward or creepy about it.

>>9720394
Usually it has to be prearranged or they need to be familiar with you or your work. Work with what you got anon. Even in the most crowded cons you can manage to get a decent shot, you have to build yourself up first if you want random spur of the moment shoots. It's a lot to ask of someone to walk more than a minute from where they are for someone they don't know.

It doesn't hurt to ask, just be sure not to waste their time.

>>9720408
>Just don't be awkward

>>9720401
They all came out like shit. That's what happened. He's probably not a very good photographer.

>>9720401
Were the shoots paid or free?

>>9720452

I can kinda relate. At last con, I messed up completely (camera settings, light, etc) so I didnt publish any photos. But I sent some photos to two cosplayers anyway, because I asked them for contact info for sending them right after shooting. I felt extremely embarrassed because if this and pretty angry at myself, but since I asked for contact, it would be mean not to send them. I guess thats why I didnt got reply - photos were awful.

>>9720452
Im pretty sure that can't be, he's a professional and would have come out and said "none of the 100+ photos I took were good, sorry" instead of telling me to keep waiting. Also I highly doubt that they were all bad. He showed me the photos while we were taking them and some of them were really nice. I've given up but I wish I had at least a few of them..

>>9720468
Some of them were free (hall shots/meet ups) and paid for.

>>9720478
It sounds like the photos were taken at least a year ago. If they were free shoots I’d tell you to just cut your losses, but if you paid for a shoot, then he either owes you photos or a refund. If he’s a professional and you paid him, it’s absolutely ridiculous that you’ve had to wait this long.
I’d say start with a polite message asking him to send you the photos whether they’ve been edited or not. If he doesn’t send them, ask for a refund. If he won’t give you either one, then leave him a bad review on any pages he has and be sure to name and shame him in your local cosplay groups for scamming you.

Get a FB account because most people find it less invasive than phone number. Go to the group photoshoots of things you're interested in. Take photos. You can ask people just standing around waiting their turn for a group shot if you can take their photo individually. It's okay to talk to people waiting around as well. You can ask what they're doing for the rest of the con, if there are other cool things they know of going on to shoot, how they made something. Don't ask for their contact info but say you'll be posting your photos on fb after the con under whatever your fb name is. Talk to other amateur photographers at the group shoot. If you hit it off with any of these people, ask if it's okay if you send them a friend request. If no then don't.

Afterwards: Post the pictures on your fb account and also if there's a page for the con or the shoot itself, post them there. Invite people to tag themselves.

Basically don't be too aggressive about getting their information and be clear about photography being a hobby rather than a profession.

>>9720478
>>9720484

Seconded - if they were paid, then yeah, he HAVE to share them with you. After all, its a deal - you paid for service, he has committed to do that service. If he doesnt, then you have full right to get money back or force him to do his end of the deal.

>>9720496

I actually have my own little site. I dont really want to setup FB account.

>most people find it less invasive than phone number

How about just email?

>>9720496
>>9720500
Most cosplayers have a public page somewhere they wouldn't mind sharing. There's no reason you can't ask them if they have a platform you can use to contact. Even if you aren't posting to FB you can still use it to contact them for wherever you post.

>>9720382
Yes, that exactly. Constructiveness is key! And don't say anything about your model's looks. I used to do a bit of modelling (mostly for my college's photography/fashion students) and it's so disheartening to hear people commenting unnecessarily about your weight/face/hair. I know it's something real models have to get used to, but it's not a way I want to be treated. Even if you're frustrated with how they look, try not to take it out on them. I'm pretty sure this doesn't need to be said because you're probably a decent person, but it's hurtful if you don't watch your words.

>>9720614

Even decent person can hurt people by words if he/she dont care. But I always try to point out the dedication I always liked in cosplayers - after all, it takes a lot of time and work to do even simplest costumes and I always say that its the effort that matters the most. Even best cosplayers started with somewhat terrible costumes, before getting better and better.

I honestly think its better to prise something in model, even if rest can be lacking - cosplay should be about fun and complaining will only make the other person sad, something completely opposite from how it should turn out like. At least thats what Im thinking.

>>9720636
Yeah, if you're critical (even if you don't mean to be hurtful), you're going to get a grumpy model. Compliments and friendly questions will make a happier shoot e.g. "I love the construction on your armour, how did you make it?"

>>9720500
Having a good social media presence is important to show that you aren't a creeper. It allows people to see how you interact with others as well. Many cosplayers have a separate FB account just for communicating with people they meet at cons.

>>9720394
Lately cons in my area are getting access to nearby locations specifically for photoshoots. I wouldn't think of it as rude to ask but generally people aren't going to want to leave the convention. You have no idea how long they've been wearing a costume or if there are events they're waiting to attend. This makes it difficult to tell if no means not right now or stop talking to me. It's all in how you approach the question.

>>9721099
Yeah, I agree with this. The FB account shows you have a presence and aren't a complete random stranger. I'm suspicious of people who don't have a FB. It makes me think they're either hiding something or not interested in going by currently accepted social customs.

Not sure where OP is located, but if FB isn't the most common social media platform there, then go with what's most common.

>>9721189
>>9721099

I dont really want to setup FB because I dont want to be part of all the profiling they do. All of those "we can judge you by FB posts more than you do it yourself" articles and programs really make me worry. A lot of people from my year dont have account either, because as one put it "I thought it will be useful, but its full of junk" and so far, pages of shops or events dont require account for viewing.

I thought that setting up site and sending photos via emails or other form of communication would be enough.

>I'm suspicious of people who don't have a FB

Thats extremely sad and depressing to hear.

will cosplayers pay for pictures?

I have an old crop sensor body and i've been thrifting some kick-ass film era glass and have converters i've been wanting to play with.

if i can get paid to play with that shit while shooting i'd do it for cheap

i'd charge an arm and a leg for cosplayers that just want boring as fuck 5dmk3 + L series prime lens shit i do for a living

>>9721305
Depends where you live and how good you are.

>>9721305
That's what most cosplayers do for their more professional photos outside of cons.

I'm a photographer myself, and I've found that as long as you have some prior photos of people cospalying, other cosplayers will definitely start coming to you, especially if your services are cheap (it's sad, but it's the truth).

I mean think about it - if you're a cosplayer, you're probably not going to message a photographer that seemingly only does wedding photos to do your own.

>>9720394
Eh, I literally have done that like.. a lot? I do what I call the 60% schedule. Leaving time open in your schedule allows for amazing chance to make miracles happen.

>>9721305
Mayb play with the new glass a bit beforehand. I’ve found some older lenses have quirks so it would be better know that before you go into the shoot rather than in the middle

>>9721355
I live in San Diego California.

I guess okay ish a friend of mine from the Temecula area used to do cosplay work but it was like bordering on digital painting with the amount of post process.


I'd cosplay stuff but as cheap as possible.


>>9721665

It's just a converted fd 35 mil f1.8 nothing out of the ordinary. I want to run it on a cheapo crop sensor before I take it into an anti-fa protest.

Cleaned the fungus off the inside, declick mod, disassembled whole lens, defungus and put a brand new EF mount on it from a cheap ass $150 kit. Also came with a little metal tab that removed bayonets from the whole full manual control, Pretty sharp reminds me of an old ae-1 those teenagers play with.

>>9720401
Eh honestly it's hard after to find the chick in costume X a few days after the con not worth tracking down a dime a dozen chick in cosplay for a free portfolio shot that was on a whim

>>9721785
Dude it was paid for, read the replies

>"Hey would you mind taking your shoes and socks off so I can take pics of your bare feet?"

>>9721978

I would run away if somebody would say something like that to me.

>>9721978
>>9722170
>run away
They look nervous
They didn't have a chance

>new to photography
>someone that Ive been shooting at the last two - three cons I went to invited me to a karaoke thing with her friends
>I'm a social autismo so idk about going, say no. She just texted back with a ":("
>This was a couple of weeks ago, she just asked again as the event is tomorrow

I-i'm scared of going but I feel like if I say no I won't be able to shoot with her
Help
Might b fun tho but singing

>>9722458

I would take part, to be honest - girls are actually pretty intuitive about reading emotions so she probably knows already that you have social problems. You can always be honest about it and mention it. But for me it seems like she actually wants to be on friendly terms. Thats great in your case since you have a chance to become more familiar with social things like this. You wont get better until you take few steps. It might be slow and steps might be small but they are still counting. Its advancement that counts.

Two years ago, I wouldnt be able to approach cosplayer and ask for permission to take a photo, out of great, overwhelming fear. Last con, I actually managed to not only ask some but also take the contact info and sent them photos (while still being afraid as hell while doing this). In my age, thats very slow advancement. But its still a step forward.

I believe you can do your small steps too, anon.

>>9720401
Was it a photoshoot situation or like a quick hallway photo?

Or just never work with them again, cut your losses

>>9722458
Do it. From personal experience, if you continue to avoid this type of stuff, you're always going to be an anxious mess and eventually people will just stop interacting with you altogether. Then you'll be complaining about how you have no friends like a lot of other anons on here.

Going will help you get over some of that anxiety. Besides, no one said you had to sing.

>>9722497
>>9722631
Thanks for the advice anons, I guess I'm gonna be meeting a bunch of new people tomorrow.

>>9722458
Clients =/= friends.

That's how you look unprofessional and rumors get spread about you.

Go do fun things with your girlfriend/wife instead.

>>9722712

Come on, photographers and cosplayers can be friends. Its she who initiated contact, not him - we already discussed such cases in this thread. And he CLEARLY need social interactions.

It was already said that asking for dates via contact mail is wrong but friendly activity if both sides are positive about it are good and happy things!

>girlfriend/wife

Not everybody is lucky enough to have girlfriend. Let alone wife. I never had girlfriend for example.

>>9722736
I honestly would advise against it. If you feel that denying a group dinner to a convention might hurt your business in the future sure attend that. but keep it professional.

but one on one or close personal friend stuff i'd hard pass. you can always go to bar, shooting range, or any other activity that doesn't break the client/profesional barrier.

if you go to too many gatherings they're going to think you're their friend and expect more and more free shit or slow down on payment and you have kids to feed. bills to pay, a mortgage.

if you're in this business to get a girlfriend you're in the wrong field

>>9723105

I think that the difference in approach comes from that you assumed he is planning professional career in that field - I assume that he is doing it for fun and to be part of fandom. I must missed the part he specified that, but it sounds like the second for me.

>if you're in this business to get a girlfriend you're in the wrong field

And what field is good?

To sum up then, the general rules would be:

1) Be polite - dont press on, ask kindly before taking a shot, if she/he says no or is in unrelated situation like going to different place (at one con one cosplayer said openly that she is simply confused when people try to take her photo when she is doing something completely unrelated like eating), simply thank and ask somebody else.
2) Dont be critical or try to replace "negative critique" ("that haircut dont fit, the light is messed up") with "construtive critique" ("we could try finding place with different light for better effect/we could try different angles"), so both sides will find the experience pleasant and maybe even improve their own workshop. Not every cosplayer is total pro, many just started and to extinguish their enthusiasm would be terrible thing to do.
3) Communicate with your model - show her/him the photos you just made, ask for opinion. She/he might find it lacking and ask for retake, model might also suggest different pose or otherwise think of something you could miss. It also helps with friendly atmosphere and ensure that, again, process will be more enjoyable for both sides.
4) Share your photos with model - either take her contact info or setup gallery somewhere (facebook/deviantart/private site) and prepare bussines cards with adress beforehand. You are not some creep enjoying taking photos for yourself, right?
5) If you took contact info for the purpose of sending photos or link to gallery - dont use it for anything else, esepcially dates inviting. Being on friendly terms if other side is open for that is fine however, but dont abuse the info you got, as it makes cosplayers feel unsafe and unpleasant.
6) Always try to improve your workshop and skills - being amateur is cute for first time or second, but after all the work they put into costumes, cosplayers deserve good photos so try to provide the best you can.
7) Dont smell and dress nicely.

(comment too long)

>>9724031

(cont)


Taken from outside of /cgl/ that was not mentioned here:

8) Dont "steal the shot" aka when you see other photographer taking a shot, dont stand behind him or next to to take the same as well. If you want to take part, wait until they finish and ask model if you can use the same spot. Its pretty mean.
9) Have fun and let others have fun too.

Anything I missed?

>>9724032
YES! fuck snipers its like, how do I say this, its so distracting.

Also 9 should be 1. This is well, all FUN.
>>9721978
why.png
>>9721305
I literally turn down pay, ( I only do a small 20-30 dollar thing for huge groups (cough love lives), because huge groups are cat wrangling affairs if you know what I mean.

I would like to once again thank you for all advices you gave me. I will try my best to become better photographer!

(too bad that I wont find girlfriend this way, but just making people happy is fine too)

Pls help
How do I learn how to shoot
Who or what do I watch or read

>>9728169

Ross Hoddinott did pretty nice book over basics of making photos, I can recommend it.

>>9724059
>YES! fuck snipers its like, how do I say this, its so distracting.
I don't mind snipers in theory because I can just ignore them and work around them. The problem is when they show up, the model you're shooting often gets confused and don't know whether to look at you or the sniper. What I do is roll around the con with three DSLRs all with flashes and battery grips, and L lenses on full display. You lug around that monstrosity of a setup and you'll have every cosplayer's undivided attention regardless of what faggot photographer tries to snipe a shot from behind you with their itty bitty babby cameras. Funny thing is only my main setup is actually expensive. The rest, save for the lenses, are Yongnuo flashes and Neewer grips which are dirt cheap Chinese shit, but most cosplayers will never know that.

>>9732534
I know one photographer who always shoots with flashes, even outdoor in sunny light, he aims them backwards at the snipers or angles it so his flash blows out their sensors

>>9724032
>>9732534

I have mixed feelings about this one as a cosplayer. If people take the time to find a nice location and setup the shot with equipment, you should stay out of the way. However a group cosplay doing a pose in the convention hallway? Take a shot, it's fine. Why? Well as a cosplayer, I don't want to stand there and pose for each individual person that wants a picture, nor do I want to give each and every person my permission to take said photo when there are already a dozen other people taking a picture.

I take pictures with my phone amd I leave the flash off, I'm not trying to get a great photo, just a pic of something that I think is cool or interesting. It's all about finding the right balance of being respectful and understanding when taking a picture without permission is acceptable and when it isn't.

>>9733007
Yeah I was mostly talking about impromptu hallway shots. If it's a private shoot everyone else can fuck right off.

>>9733007
Hallway shots vs photo shoots are too different things, and snipers need to learn the proper etiquette.

>>9732860
I kind of want to steal this. I don't get snipers very often, but I often shoot with very minimal gear, so I know people assume I'm not a '''serious''' photog. My general go-to for snipers is to just ignore them, approach the cosplayer, and show them the shots I've taken of them so far until the sniper leaves.

Is there any reason I shouldn't get the COOLPIX P900 for con photos?

>>9724032
Add in don't block traffic to get a picture.

Have some spatial awareness and don't block hallways/stairs at busy times, which is all times at major conventions. At one convention I was at a photog had his assistant block a stairwell for about 10 minutes just before 6pm on saturday evening, enough time to jam up the second floor as everyone was coming out of panels. Don't assume that people being respectful of your space means that you aren't disrepecting theirs.

I also feel this plays into the sniping thing. If you're taking up floorspace at a convention and creating a spectacle, expect people to take picutres of that spectacle. If you want a private shoot, don't do it in a convention center during a convention.

One more question - do I absolutely need DSLR or Im good with compact one?

I mean, in my country, when I asked one cosplayer at her panel about tips for beginner photographer, she expressed gladness that more people are willing to start doing cosplay photography (making it sound like its rare here) but at the other hand, I dont want to ruin somebody experience with being too amateur.

DSLR are kinda costly here.

>>9734566
a compact camera can technically take okay photos-- but there's no beating the quality of a good dslr, there's no good way to digitally replicate aperture. the image quality is also way better, with point and shoot there's never quite the sharpness i'm looking for. also you probably won't get taken seriously holding a tiny camera, people will think you're just an average congoer.

>>9734566
You can shoot with any camera you want. But know that if you shoot with a technically inferior camera, you better be ready to work twice as hard as the photographers lucky enough to have quality gear. Compensate for your lack of quality gear by learning as much about photography, different techniques, rules of composition, plan out how you plan to pose your models.

>>9734147
Do it, I know he's cool with others doing it cuz he tells others that's what he's doing during his personal shoots and some started to do the same as him.

>>9734566
Dslrs are old tech.

An iPhone will shoot better than an older Crop sensor cmos equipped DSLR.

DSLR glass is also pretty soft unless it's pro level stuff.

You'd be better off with a full frame Sony alpha body and Sony produced Carl Zeiss equipped lenses over a canon DSLR pro Sumer model

>>9735775

My montly income is equal to around 370 EUR, I cant throw some insane money on equipment. I had one old Sony compact model and last year bought OP pic related.

I was thinking about Nikon 3400 one.

I have an Canon EOS 70D for filming youtube videos -- how well does it fare for taking photos?

>>9735937
The 70D is a very good late model Canon. Get the 50mm 1.8 because its literally dirt cheap and the best prime for taking photos on APS-C

>>9735941
Thanks, that's actually the lens I already have haha.

>>9735775
u wot m8? The T7i, hell I would argue a 40D can still kick the ass of an iPhone for low light and as it has RAW you can still recover more details.
(I mean I use an old A7II because I'm not sure if Sony will release an A7III or if I should just cry and get the RIII

Anybody can say if Nikon 3400 is good camera for beginner cosplay photographer?

>>9735941
A 50mm ef lens on aps-c body does not equal 50mm

Try it, it turns into a weird cropped 80mm telephoto esque effect

>>9740611
On the other hand 80mm equivalent is not a bad portrait lens

>>9734566
Old good dslr are pretty cheap they just wont have wifi and tilting screens. 1" sensor compacts can put out some good pictures. Regular compacts are fine for hall photos and sharing on Casual places like Instagram and Facebook. If you're sending someone pic privately so they can see them at original size you will need to do some shrinking to hide the noise even in full daylight.

>be new to photography with my quintessential D3400
>>9738913
by the way yeah, it's a good starting-out camera.
>Have some experience with DSLRs that weren't mine but really want to practice
>go to a local convention and ask to shoot people
I wasn't planning on doing anything at all with them, just to get practice with photography, didn't even shoot it in RAW
>after a few shots ask to take a picture of a girl cosplaying whatsherface, the blue maido from Re:Zero, because she pulled it off pretty well.
>she poses and then I notice
>she had a friend there wearing a noticeably shittier cosplay low-key glaring at me
>Fuck, did I just ask her friend for a photograph and completely ignore her? that's pretty brutal of me.
>"C-can I take your picture too?"
>"No", she said in a pretty stern tone, the kind of tone you get when someone tries to hide being pissed off but lets it slip.
>I take the maido's picture and go on.

It has been months and I still feel shitty about it, don't single out good cosplayers from a group of other cosplayers, it's basically like saying "this one is good the rest is garbage".

>>9740685

I had something similar once, after one cosplayer ended her posing, before she returned to her friend, I kindly asked if she would pose for one photo for me as well. After that I asked her friend if she would pose too and she was surprised at first but her smile looked like if she actually felt appreciated.

>>9718494
If you hope for social interaction, let the models initiate it, especially if you're socially awkward. Remember that most models are people too, many secretly have low self-esteem and aren't the most socially adept people either. Never ever flirt during a photoshoot, even if you feel the model is flirting with you. If you're sure they are, invite them for drinks or dinner afterwards and flirt then.

>>9740741
Would a model actually come up to a photographer and ask for her picture to be taken? I don't cosplay but I can't imagine myself doing it if I did.

>>9740744
It's happened to me a surprising amount of times, without them even seeing my pictures. But that usually happens in more relaxed settings (the pool, a con party), and not in the middle of a hallway with thousands of people swirling around and dozens of photographers right within reach. Also, a lot flake out later on when you try to arrange a shoot. Don't let them discourage you.
I don't particularly "look" like a photographer (other than having a nice camera) so I'm not sure why this sometimes happens. Maybe I have a good reputation.

>>9740747
But you're talking about proper organized shots, right? like going out somewhere getting a few shots, editing them and sending them to the cosplayers, I was talking about a more casual shooting, like coming up to someone and asking 'hey, can I take a picture?".
I guess no one is going to approach a guy with a kit lens in a sea of DSLRs

>>9740751
Yeah, exactly. When there's an endless sea of photographers out there, no one's going to approach you blind. If you're in a smaller setting, like a con party, or a local comm meet, it's more likely to happen.
But while you're at a con, it's perfectly socially acceptable to ask cosplayers for a few quick photos. Don't take it personally if they say no; just move on and ask others.
Also always be aware of your surroundings if they say yes - try not to block busy halls and try not to have bright lights or bright windows as a background unless you know how to use your fill flash.

>>9740741

Never ran into situation when cosplayer would ask for pictures. Once one asked me after posing for one photo if I do sessions, but since Im really amateur without proper gear yet, I was honest about it.

And thanks for warning.

How does Everage get so many girls to show their feet in pictures for him?

Asking for a friend

>>9740875
In this specific picture she does a pose from an official artwork, so maybe he went "can you replicate this pose for me?" and shot for this particular angel along with various other angels.
I sure as shit still wouldn't do it if I were her, but maybe she's not as cautious, or cares less.

>>9740685
>ask if I can take a photo of this 10/10 Mass Effect cosplayer
>she has a 3/10 friend with her
>"do you want to take a picture of just me or.."
>3/10 friend looks like she's bracing for disappointment
>"how about both of you together?"
>3/10 friend looks happy
>take photo
>immediately regret it
>don't even want to ask for separate solo shots because I know 3/10chan would realize I was just being nice and only wanted a photo of the 10/10 instead
I'm too much of a softy for this shit, man.

>>9740937

He has hundreds of non canon pics too

>>9740875
>tfw armpitfag
>tfw it's so much easier to get a girl to show off her stinky sexy armpits

>>9740966
You did the right thing. You're not trying to make money or hang the pics in a gallery, and making cosplayers happy helps give you a good reputation.

>>9740875
>>9740999
Normal people (as normal as cosplayers get, at least) don't think of feet or armpits as sexual, so they don't mind displaying them as much.

Also foot fags usually love giving free foot massages, which make them very popular.

>>9740966

You can either try to wait for them to seperate or just man up and grab solos of both and singles of each. It's a small price to pay, if you'll get another person who thinks good of you while you get your desired pic at the expense of 3-4 photos you really didn't want.

>>9734349
>P900
size weight and cost. the Nikon Coolpix P900 is more for wild lift and outdoors. So it will do poorly.
If you can buy any entry level DSLR/mirrorless and you will get a much better price and it will do better in low light.

>>9738913
It's perfect! Not to heavy and good spec.

>>9735946
The A7iii will be released this year. Canon going to release an entry level Full Frame mirrorless by September(they confirmed). Nikon is doing the same however have not confirmed a time line. It will likely be 24 MP(like the A9) just with less features. Likely slower eye detection and 5-7 FPS and single silent shutter speed. Sony out selling Nikon in the Full Frame market and are going after Canon.

>>9735775
You know nothing.

>>9740741
>appreciated.
>>>
>Anonymous 01/03/18(Wed)09:44:14 No.9740
Ridiculous. Maybe if you're a girl the girl or guy who is your subject will initiate flirting. If you're a guy, you never get that privilege. You have to initiate or else nothing is going to happen. And not flirting until you're on a dinner or drink date is absolutely autistic thinking. There's a big jump to going on a date and if you don't flirt before then you are never going to bridge that gap.

Now, fortunately, you don't have to simply flirt with everyone until something sticks. Just save the flirting for peeps who seem like they like you. There's no guaranteed way to tell if they like you though. Sorry but romance unavoidably requires taking risks and requires a little forwardness.

>>9740611
I was
>>9740642 and THAT is why I said get the 50. on APS-C its a really good portrait lens. If you want a normal you get the 35mm, and wide on APS-C sort of sucks tbf
>>9742268
Thats what I wanted, assuming it has the dual slots and joystick and bigger battey (all likely, they have retooled for the Improved Alpha series already).

>>9745435
That's what Ambien is for. Just slip it into a drink and offer it to them

>>9745548

Isnt it like the cameras like this have lens multiplier around 1,5 usual aka 50mm behave like 75mm?

>>9746366
Canon is 1.6x crop factor, Nikon is 1.5x

I'm gonna be a shooting a slightly chubby cosplayer in a somewhat skimpy cosplay, basically a bikini
How would I go about making her look flattering?
Help

>>9747157
Soft light
Big diffuser/reflector
Down angling
3/4 perspective
Not Sure if wide angle or telephoto would be more flattering

>>9747157
Start emailing her diet advice or exercise plans.

>>9747157

myspace angles

>>9747157
Look up plus size poses. Also see if you can find models with similar body types. Copy the pose and angles.


Also do not use up angles. It makes people look larger then they are.