Steps

1. 1

   Search for information

   Would you like to participate in the cosplay contest of the next convention? Start by looking for information on the convention's website or social networks to find out the name of the association organising the contest. Conventions often do not convey all the information about cosplay competitions, so it can be easy to miss them! Don't hesitate to follow them to make sure you don't miss any information!

   
2. 2

   Record key dates

   Note the key dates in your calendar or on your phone to remember them: - opening of entries - closure of registrations - day of competition This will allow you to organize yourself

   
3. 3

   Read the regulation

   Read the cosplay contest rules carefully for details. Important points for the costume are: - the categories of costumes authorised in the contest - the obligatory percentage of hand made on the costume - whether or not a WIP folder is requested - the maximum number of persons in a group

   
4. 4

   Read the regulation

   Important points for the delivery are: - the maximum duration of the benefit - if the video is authorized for the performance - the technical characteristics of the performance file - the maximum number of accessories or decorations allowed on stage (and if table and chairs can be lent by the organizers) In case of questions, you should not hesitate to send a message to the contest organizers (but after reading the rules!)

   
5. 5

   Prepare your presta

   Prepare your performance in advance to have the time to repeat it well before the day of the contest. Technical level, be careful to follow some rules: - the duration must be in accordance with the Regulation - use audio editing software (e.g. Audacity is free) to process your recording (noise reduction, normalization, molten closure, etc.) Listen to your performance on several devices (speakers, helmets, speakers) to check that the quality is good (stage speakers are often of medium quality, so to have a good rendering you have to anticipate)

   
6. 6

   The Reference Image

   A good reference image will allow the jury to better visualize your costume. Try to find good quality reference images so the jury can zoom in to see the details. If possible, take a full foot image or even better, with several views (face, back, sides). You can mount images to integrate multiple views (Please do not change the reference image (change the color, remove an item, etc.), this is often prohibited by the regulations!

   
7. 7

   WiP folder

   A WIP file can be requested at the time of registration (not always read the rules of your contest). You are not necessarily asked for a descriptive and very detailed file, sometimes a dozen photos may suffice. If you don't have enough photos, you can make patterns of your costume to complete.

   
8. 8

   Repeats

   Your registration is sent and the organizer has confirmed your registration? Congratulations! Now we repeat! If your performance contains spoken words or passages, pass the audio of your performance in a loop for 10 minutes a day to have it in mind and work your synchronization. Feel free to train in front of a mirror to work your expressiveness. Do you have a suit that hides your face? Compensate with your body! Cosplay is also theatre, we must be able to understand emotions from the bottom of the audience! Does your performance contain a dance? Repeat regularly to be in good rhythm with the music (and don't forget to warm up before)

   
9. 9

   The day of the competition

   Here we are! Follow the directions of the competition organizers for the day's event. Don't forget to check the time regularly so you won't be late for the different appointments (briefing, pre-judging, behind-the-scenes setting, start of the contest, award ceremony). Don't forget to drink water especially! Stress? Feel free to ask questions to a staff member who can help you. Everything's gonna be okay!