I originally wrote this piece about the cosplay photographer around a year ago for my Tumblr before I had this website. It is still something that I think is very important for cosplayers to understand so I’m sharing it here now.
“I’ve been noticing a lot of online cosplay contests popping up lately. The best example is probably the Otaku House facebook contest, but there are many other similar contests all over the internet. I often wonder if the cosplayers that submit photos to these contests ever consider their photographer before they enter. Now I am not a photographer. I do not take photos outside of goofy pictures with friends and frantically trying to capture my cat doing something adorable before it’s too late. I am, however, a creative professional so I can relate to many of the trials a photographer might endure. I’ve also had the pleasure of discussing some of the nuances of cosplay photography with a few photographers.
Cosplay photography is unique, there are two parties represented in each photo. The creator of the costume (you) and the photographer. You put the painstaking hours into creating an elaborate and beautiful work of art but your photographer was the one that got down on his hand and knees in the dirt to capture the perfect angle that properly displays that beautiful work. Your photographer owns the creative rights to that image. Your photographer is also going to allow you to use that image for free on your personal cosplay websites. This is the relationship we share with our photographer, they capture our work and allow us the use of their imagery and we provide them with new and awesome things to photograph.
Most cosplay photographers will tell you right on their website or flickr or DA exactly how you can use their images. Generally they allow the cosplayer to use them for personal endeavors. What does this have to do with online contests? Most of those online contests state that the owner (the creator of the contest) has the right to use any photograph submitted at any time they choose for any reason. By entering this contest you have just given up all of the rights your photographer has to his image. This is not cool. Now, not all contests operate this way but that is why it is VERY IMPORTANT to always read the rules and the fine print.
Now for the TL;DR portion, if you want to enter an online contest here are some things to consider:
1) Read the rules and find out how the photograph you submit will be used
2) If the rules do not say either do not submit or directly contact the contest and inquire
3) Ask your photographer for permission to use their photograph for the contest
4) ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS credit your photographer
And of course, if your photographer says no, respect their decision and understand that they have more of a right to that photo than you do.”
I would also like to add to this, as it is now becoming popular for cosplayers to sell photos and posters of themselves, You absolutely MUST make it clear to your photographer that you intend to profit off of their work. If you make your intentions clear they will more than likely be willing to work out an agreement (and if you choose to do this get a contract, protect yourself and protect them). A percentage of profit, a flat fee, if you will be making money off of their imagery they have a right to be compensated. We are so lucky to be blessed with such an amazing photography community, thank them and treat their work with respect!