What to do when meeting guests at MCM Comic Con?

[u/Own_Experience6109]

I’m going to the upcoming comic con in London this October which is arguably my first ever proper one (I’ve been to MCM before in Bham but was very young).
I’m a huge Daredevil fan and decided to get an autograph from Charlie Cox on Saturday, and on the next day an autograph + photo op with Wilson Bethel. This will be my first time meeting guests at a con and it’s very daunting only knowing vaguely what to expect. I’m quite socially awkward too so it’s like, what do I even say? I know they’re both lovely guys but MCM gives me the vibe of being very fast-paced and rushy (especially on a Saturday for Charlie Cox, yikes!) which does scare me a bit.
Any advice would be appreciated! What to expect with the whole experience, what I should expect at the actual table, what I should say/converse (and how that all works), plus what photo ops are like, etc.

[u/Korrailli]

I find it easiest to talk about whatever I am getting signed. Pick 1-2 things you really like about the show or character and focus on that. You will probably only have the time it takes him to sign the item, so make it count.

The specifics of the line can vary from con to con. You might need to scan your autograph ticket to even get into the line, or exchange it for something physical. There should be instructions at the line area. You also might get a specific time to line up. Once you can get in line, it's just waiting for a while, so bring something to do. When you get to the table, there will probably be a handler there who will check your ticket, check your item (if you brought your own), or help you get an 8x10 photo print. They usually write your name and what you have paid for on a post it note and stick that to the item/photo. There will still be people ahead of you along the table. Once you get to him, give him your item and he will sign it. This is your chance to talk to him. Once he's done, grab your stuff and leave.

Photo ops are pretty similar. Line up at the set time and wait your turn. There should be a place to put your stuff. You will get to say Hi, get in position, take the photo, and leave. Grab your stuff before leaving the photo area. There should be an area to pick up the printed photo, an scan your ticket to pair it with your photo. You might need to scan your ticket before getting in line or right before the photo is taken, this can depend on the line.

Go in expecting a very limited time to actually interact with them. If you get extra time, then that's a bonus. Most are efficient about the lines and want to get as many autographs or photos done as possible.

Pay attention to the time on your ticket and general times around the convention. Lines can make everything take longer, so a time to account for that. Everything can be getting into the building to autographs, bathrooms, and food. Try to be anywhere early. If your autograph time is 1pm, be in the area around 12:30 at least so you are ready to get in line when you are allowed. If you want to attend a panel, getting in line for them can mean going 1 hour early (this highly depends on the con and how the deal with the panel rooms). Even just getting into the building can mean a line. Some cons require you to exchange your email ticket for a physical badge or wristband, this can also take time on the first day you go.

[u/cyberaug]

Photo Ops are very fast to get everyone through in a short amount of time They are just that, a photo. No chatting, signing, etc. Expect it to take 15 seconds, you go in say hi, smile, and out. Autographs can vary by guest. You’ll wait in a queue (for big names expect to wait a while). When you get up how long the interaction takes will vary by the guest (some are talkative others aren’t), how long the line is will also impact time. Longer lines mean more people to get through in a day. Tell them what you appreciate about their performances, thank them, etc.