TGS cosplayers gather between the two large halls on the second day of the show.

 Photographers line up to snap the brilliant costumes - many are in costume themselves.

Fantasy characters reveal skin - but only sometimes. Sexiness is an explicit choice.

Empowerment is also a popular theme.

 Sometimes a photographer will request a particular pose.

Players will work together to find the best angle and pose for a given character.

This often leads to smiles and laughter. Most don't take themselves too seriously. 

However, some players do not like to be photographed out of pose.

A majority of the cosplayers are women, but men attend in fair numbers.

Often, girls Cross-Play as boy characters

 Some boys cross as girls, too.

 I find the poses fascinating. How many times did she practice kissing that chain?

 Groups seem to enjoy the event quite a bit - hamming it up for the cameras and themselves.

 Taking a photo here is a sign of respect and admiration. It is a compliment.

The players give so freely of themselves - mostly, to strangers.

 I saw a lot of kids at the event this year. Cross-Play was also more prevalent.

 The color was great, as always.

Worlds collided when players ate or walked on the show floor...

 even though the cat and the school girl are everywhere.

 Cosplayers present an alternate view of these cliches... personalizing them.

This was one of my favorite groups!

 The American girls were a big hit. Very pink!

Hrm. Next year I may actually dress up!