Things I have learned from conventions...

I have a digital camera that can also take videos, but it doesn't come with a light. I learned this the hard way while at Wizard Boston...when I took video from well-lit places, like the vendor and artist alleys, they came out great. When I took video in a convention hall - for the costume contest no less - they came out terrible. Photos taken throughout the con, however, all came out great. An added plus with a regular camera is size. I fit it in my pocket when not in use, versus lugging a larger video recorder around all day. Speaking of which...

...when taking pics, or videos for that matter, ask first. Most likely they'll say yes, but respect the occasional "no".

Unless you plan on returning to your hotel room or home throughout the day, have the following items with you at all times: deodorant, mouthwash and/or gum and a clean shirt. Better safe than offensive.

Some events, like SDCC, give out huge bags to carry swag and stuff. That's great, but over time they can get rather heavy. Smaller events, such as C-4, don't give out bags, but I plan on bringing my backpack. Either way, be aware of your surroundings. You don't want to hit someone...or get hit by someone else...accidentally. This also ties in with picture taking. Try not to block traffic when taking photos, or getting your photo taken.

When you get to a table with boxes and boxes of 25 cent books, and there's someone already there looking through them...wait your turn. Usually, all that's needed is 5 minutes for someone to move on to the next box, allowing you to step in behind them. If you're worried about "that other guy" swooping in and getting something you've been looking for, chances are there's another copy of that same book in another box. If not at that table, then at another one. Also...look down. Many vendors but extra boxes on the floor under the tables for people to look through. You may find what you're looking for there, but again - someone else may already be sitting there, so watch where you step.

If you do wind up carrying a lot of stuff, take it back to your room/vehicle. I plan on unloading stuff into my car throughout the day, and taking it all home Saturday night before returning Sunday morning.

TAKE BREAKS!!! This is very important. While volunteering at Wizard Boston, I saw a young boy (around 12 years old) pass out right in front of me. He was tended to, and came around rather quickly, but he was dehydrated. So pace yourself, bring water, and every so often...SIT THE F**K DOWN!!!

One more thing...

...if you happen to be in the restroom, or having lunch, and see a creator/cosplayer you've been meaning to talk to/get a pic of - respect their personal space. Don't rush up to them with a pen...or whatever...shoved in their face. Make a mental note of who and where they are, and stalk them properly by waiting outside the establishment. True, they may ignore you. But I'd rather be ignored (and try again later) than remembered for being rude (and intentionally ignored for the rest of the con...if not thrown out entirely).