The Denver Post

Cosplayers

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Actors

Actors bring some of our favorite characters to life. Naturally, people tend to feel a deep connection with them. But remember, the actor is not the character. And although you may feel close to them, you may not have the same intimate connection in person. This goes for comic writers, artists and cosplayers too.

That’s not to say to say you can’t be excited to see someone. Just recognize where they’re coming from.

There’s a chance for you to grab autographs and photos with the actors in attendance. Make sure to check online what days they’ll be there, said Denver Comic Con director of programmin­g Bruce MacIntosh. Autographs range from $25 to $100 while photograph­s range from $30 to $115. (The most expensive is an autograph or photo with the James and Oliver Phelps, the identical twins who play play the Weasley twins in the “Harry Potter” films.)

Be prepared to stand in a line for these, MacIntosh said. Also, you may want to pre-order the autograph or photo at popculture­classroom.org to ease your experience. Note: Day-of purchases are cash only and ATM lines are painfully long.

“Cosplay is not consent,” is a major message being pushed by Denver Comic Con. Regardless of the character an artist is portraying, you do not have permission to touch them, said Beverly Warner, who is on the DCC cosplay team. And don’t presume that just because the character is aggressive or sexualized that the cosplayer wants you to interact with them in that way.

Your best move is to ask someone if they mind taking a photo with you. If they say no, that’s a no. Oh, and let people take a break. If someone is off to the side sitting or eating, don’t push for a picture, Warner said. Find them later if you really want a photo.

Don’t be shy to call the cosplayer by the name of their character — they love that! And don’t worry, there is no expectatio­n that you’ll tip for a selfie.

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