Comic Con etiquette 101

How to approach celebrities, cosplayers and more

I know it’s hard, really I do, but sometimes you just need to not be an awful person. And when lots of people are squished together to celebrate nerd culture, well, that’s the time.

Proper etiquette can be hard. (I mean, who doesn’t put their elbows on the dinner table from time to time?)

So to give Denver Comic Con goers a gentle nudge toward doing the right thing this weekend, here is a quick guide to good manners when interacting with

actors, creators, and cosplayers, the performance artists who dress as characters.

Comic writers/artists

Comics are great! And you might want to make your comics even greater with one of the creator’s signatures. But be courteous.

Most comic artists or writers will sign a single copy or two for free. But prepare to pull out your wallet once you start wheeling in a barrel of comics, local comic writer R. Alan Brooks said. You should also expect to put some bills down if you’re getting the signature of a big-name creator.

If that peeves you, remember that this is a creator’s livelihood. They attend Comic Cons to sell their work and signing dozens of comics holds them back from potential sales. Also, hand cramps are a thing, Brooks joked.

Feel free to chat with an artist but recognize that if it’s a long line, you should probably be brief. Or, if you have a great conversation going, step to the side of the table so other people can walk up.

We all get parched but don’t place your drinks on an artist’s work. Also, don’t assume things on a table are free — ask before you take anything. (Brooks said he’s had to chase after people who picked up for-sale merchandise and walked away.)

Lastly, don’t be shy. If you really like an artist, commission them for a piece of work to pick up by the end of the day or weekend. Prices can range depending on the artist.