Picvetia 2026 was more than just a cosplay photography event — it was a full creative challenge across Switzerland, packed with stunning locations, travel planning, shoot logistics, collaboration, self-doubt, teamwork, and some seriously inspiring cosplay photography.

In this episode of Cosplay, Togs & All Things Nerdy, we sit down for a full Picvetia debrief from a UK photographer’s point of view. We talk about getting accepted, travelling abroad for a European photocon, planning shoots, scouting locations, working with cosplayers and assistants, managing pressure, using natural light and creative lighting, editing after the event, and what we would do differently next time.

A useful listen for cosplay photographers, cosplayers, assistants, and anyone thinking about applying for Picvetia or another European photo-focused cosplay event.

Guests:

James - jrecosplayphotography - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/jrecosplayphotography/

Michael - michaelwlach. cosplaytog - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/michaelwlach.cosplaytog/

Hosts:

Darren - iPhotoUK - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/iphotouk/

Tom - Switch Photography - Insta: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/switch_8.9/⁠⁠

Podcast Socials: LinkTree: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share⁠

COSPLAYER CREDITS

Cosplayers who worked with Michael Wlach Photography:

cylliaenez - Insta: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/cylliaenez/⁠

monochrome.marionette - Insta: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/monochrome.marionette/

⁠hitsugi_cosplay - Insta: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/hitsugi_cosplay/⁠

lady.angie - Insta: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/lady.angie/⁠

layrena_ - Insta: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/layrena_/

⁠lady.lunaria - Insta: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/lady.lunaria/⁠

bumblebee.t - Insta: ⁠h⁠phy⁠ttps://www.instagram.com/bumble.bee.t/⁠

tammylestrange - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/tammy.lestrange/

narya_cosplay - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/narya_cosplay/

i.am.lidu - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/i.am.lidu/

Cosplayers who worked with James / JRE Cosplay Photography:

keyuricosplay - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/keyuricosplay/

kuro_chu - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/kuro_chu/

its_antartide - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/its_antartide/

renee.phantomhive - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/renee.phantomhive/

kujakuhime - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/kujakuhime/

lady.angie - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/lady.angie/

_witchling_ - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/_witchling_/

sunni.cos - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/sunni.cos/

marie_scarletto - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/marie_scarletto/

elmo_cos - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/elmo_cos/

tammy.lestrange - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/tammy.lestrange/

_.silverdragon._ - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/_.silverdragon._/

Cosplayers who worked with Darren / iPhotoUK:

narya_cosplay - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/narya_cosplay/

bumble.bee.t - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/bumble.bee.t/

keyuricosplay - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/keyuricosplay/

sunni.cos - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/sunni.cos/

junrengenohana - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/junrengenohana/

cylliaenez - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/cylliaenez/

giulee - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/giulee/

SPECIAL THANK YOU

A massive thank you to the Picvetia team for creating such an incredible event and community experience.Special thanks to:

Picvetia - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/picvetia/

Giulee - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/giulee/

Rromai_lee - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/romai_lee/

Ailyta - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/ailyta/

Picvetia Website: https://picvetiaevent.ch/en/home/

And a massive thank you to the rest of the Picvetia organisers, volunteers, cosplayers, photographers, videographers and assistants who helped make the event such a special creative experience.

EP 20 of Cosplay, Togs & All Things Nerdy takes you inside Secret Con, the UK’s photo-focused cosplay event. We discuss how it started during lockdown, how it has grown over five years, what makes it different from mainstream conventions, and its impact on the UK cosplay and photography community.

Topics covered:Secret Con originsUK cosplay events and photo conventionsCosplay photography and creative shootsVenue planning, logistics, and safetyVolunteers, attendees, and event growthThe future of Secret Con🎙️ Watch/listen and let us know your thoughts in the comments.🔔 Subscribe for more episodes covering cosplay, photography, conventions, and all things nerdy.

Guests:

• Andy - KronanKreative Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kronankreative/

• Darren - iPhotoUK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iphotouk/

Hosts:

Chloe Hill - its.chloehill - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/its.chloehill/

Tom - Switch Photography - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/switch_8.9/

Podcast Socials: LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Picvetia is one of Switzerland’s most exciting cosplay photography events and in this episode, we go behind the scenes on what it really takes to plan it: applications, selection, locations, logistics, and building a supportive community.

🎙️ In this episode, the Picvetia team shares:

• How Picvetia started and how it’s grown

• What makes a strong application/portfolio (cosplayers + photographers)

• How selection works (quality, variety, skills — not just social following)

• The hidden workload: scouting, pressure, rejections, timelines

• Why locations matter so much — and how to use them creatively

• Tips for beginners: posing, make-up, networking, persistence

📍 Destination spotlight (for travel + cosplay enthusiasts)Picvetia 2026: Locarno–Bellinzona Region, Switzerland (10–11–12 April)

Official Website: https://www.ilvolta.com/en/

Official info + rules: https://picvetiaevent.ch/en/home/

Rules + selection criteria: https://picvetiaevent.ch/en/rules/

Applications page: https://picvetiaevent.ch/en/application/

🔥 If you’re applying: What’s the ONE thing you struggle with most — posing, make-up, portfolio curation, editing, or confidence? Drop it in the comments and we’ll reply with tips.

Guests:

• Giulee Cosplayer — Cosplayer & Community Manager, Picvetia (Switzerland) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giulee/

• RomaiLee — Photographer & Cosplayer, President/Founder of Picvetia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romai_lee/

• Ailyta - Cosplayer & Picvetia Team Menber Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ailyta/

Hosts:

Darren - iPhotoUK - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/iphotouk/

Tom - Switch Photography - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/switch_8.9/

Podcast Socials:

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

🔥 Nexus 13. What it is. Why we’re building it. And why it’s bigger than just cosplay.

In this episode, Tom (Switch) and Darren (iPhotoUK) break down the vision behind **Nexus 13** — a new creative events + education brand built for **all areas of photography**, not just the cosplay scene.

Yes, cosplay will be a big part of what we do. But Nexus 13 is designed to support creators across the board, including:

• cosplay and character work• portraits and modelling

• boudoir and tasteful NSFW (18+ only, consent-first, professional standards)

• workshops, training days, and skill-building sessions

• themed events that help you create stronger work with better structure

• future plans like trips away, bigger experiences, and wider collaborations

Our goal is simple: create a space where photographers, models, cosplayers, and creators can level up, meet like-minded people, and make work they’re genuinely proud of. Less pressure. More intention. Better environments to create.

What we cover:

• What Nexus 13 is (and what it isn’t)

• Why we’re building it and what problem it solves

• The kinds of events we want to run (themes, workshops, training days, meetups)

• How we keep it safe, respectful, and creator-focused

• Who it’s for, and how we want people to collaborate

• What’s coming in 2026 and beyond

👇 Question for you:

What kind of event would you actually pay to attend?

A themed shoot day, a workshop, a training day, a retreat/trip away, or something else?

Hosts:

• Darren — iPhotoUK — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iphotouk/

• Tom — Switch Photography — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/switch_8.9/

Nexus 13:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nexus.13/

• Website: coming in the first half of 2026

• Discord community: launching in the first half of 2026

Podcast Socials:

• LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

🎧 New year, new episode. No guests this time. Just us having a proper nerd catch-up.

Tom (Switch) and Darren (iPhotoUK) chat through what we’ve been watching and what we’re hyped for next, then get into the big pop-culture debates: are sequels and remakes taking over, what still feels fresh, and what we actually want from films and TV going into 2026.

This episode covers:

• Films we’ve been watching and talking about, including The Running Man, Avatar: Fire and Ash, Predator: Badlands, and more• 2026 hype like Avengers: Doomsday and Supergirl

• TV deep-dives: Stranger Things, Fallout, The Witcher, and Star Trek (Discovery + Strange New Worlds)

• One of Tom/Switch’s standout shows recently: MobLand

• Gaming chat, delays, and what we’re watching in the industry

• Photography gear talk: lenses, lighting, and why certain setups just work

• Nexus 13: our new venture focused on themed cosplay events and workshops built around story-led photography, community, and a safe space to create. Themes we’re planning include Arcane and Cyberpunk, with additional themes to follow.

👇 Question for you:

What are you MOST hyped for in 2026 (film, series, or game)? And what theme would you want to see from Nexus 13?

Links:

• First Glass Designs: https://firstglassdesigns.co.uk/

Hosts:

• Darren — iPhotoUK — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iphotouk/

• Tom — Switch Photography — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/switch_8.9/

Podcast Socials:

• LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

🎙️ LAST EPISODE OF 2025 — and we’re going out with a proper year-end roundup.

In this episode of Cosplay, Togs & All Things Nerdy, we’re joined by cosplayer Dan Kaermorhen and photographer Tom Clicks 83 to break down what 2025 looked like for the cosplay + convention scene — the good, the chaotic, and the “why is this suddenly so expensive?!”.

We dive into how MCM has changed over the years (layout, flow, vibe), why the gaming side feels like it’s fading into the background, and the real-world headache photographers deal with when security and rules change depending on who’s working that day. If you’ve ever had a “you can’t shoot here” moment… yeah, we talk about that.

Then we get into the BIG one: cost. Hotels, travel, tickets — everything is climbing, and it’s changing how people choose events. We chat about why smaller cons and alternative events are becoming more appealing, and why, for most of us, the social side is still the main reason we keep showing up.

We also get real about burnout. The pressure to attend everything. The pressure to create nonstop. The pressure to say yes to every shoot. We talk about why it’s okay to say no, why quality beats quantity, and why dedicated “out of con” shoots can be way more satisfying than rushing around a con floor.

To wrap it up, we look ahead to 2026 — what we’re planning, what we’re skipping, and how we’re trying to bring the fun back into creativity.

👇 Drop a comment:

What was YOUR best con moment of 2025 — and what do you want from cons in 2026?

Guests:

• Dan Kaermorhen (Cosplayer) — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaermorhen.cos/

• Tom Clicks 83 (Photographer) — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clicks__83/

Hosts:

• Darren — iPhotoUK — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iphotouk/

• Tom — Switch Photography — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/switch_8.9/

Podcast Socials:

• LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

📺 More episodes: youtube.com/@CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy

🎧 Audio on Spotify: search “Cosplay, Togs & All Things Nerdy”

European Photocons are booming — but how do they actually work? In this episode, we sit down with organisers and community leads from Focus Cosplay (France) and Picvetia (Switzerland) to unpack costs vs UK cons, application criteria, location scouting, crew/assistants, scheduling, cancellations, and how to get the most from a photocon weekend.

Guests:

• Chouchou — Cosplayer & President/Founder of Focus Cosplay (France) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chouchougeekart/

• Giulee Cosplayer — Cosplayer & Community Manager, Picvetia (Switzerland) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giulee/

• RomaiLee — Photographer & Cosplayer, President/Founder of Picvetia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romai_lee/

• Valentin (Valentin Pictures) — French Cosplay Photographer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valentinpictures/

Website: https://valentinpictures.com/

Photo Con Website & Socials:

Focus Cosplay Website: https://focuscosplay.fr/en/

Focus Cosplay Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focus_cosplay/

PicVetia Website: https://picvetiaevent.ch/en/home/

PicVetia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/picvetia/

il.Volta Website: https://www.ilvolta.com/en/

il.Volta Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/il.volta/

PixelMania Webiste: https://pixelmania.ovh/

PixelMania Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pixelmaniaevent/

Secret Con Website: https://secretcon.co.uk/

Secret Con Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secretcon.co.uk/

Hosts:

Darren - iPhotoUK - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/iphotouk/

Tom - Switch Photography - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/switch_8.9/

Podcast Socials:

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

What you’ll learn:

• How Focus Cosplay & Picvetia recruit, review, and select applicants

• What makes European Photocons different from UK conventions (pace, access, cost)

• Real-world cost breakdowns and why EU events can be cheaper to attend

• Location scouting tactics (travel time, geography, weather, permits)

• Why assistants matter (efficiency, safety, comms, gear wrangling)

• Handling cancellations, reshuffles, and maximising your time on site

• Tools & workflows (yes, Google Sheets can save your weekend)

• How to prepare a strong application (diversity, quality, collaboration mindset)

Chapters:

00:00 — Intro: What is a Photocon?

04:05 — Photocon format vs UK comic cons

07:45 — Focus Cosplay: origin, growth, how it runs

12:06 — Picvetia: the Swiss perspective (rotating regions)

16:32 — Costs: UK vs Europe

21:04 — Applications: selection & quality/diversity

25:19 — Assistants: roles, etiquette, impact

43:24 — Getting the most value from a photocon

49:55 — Commitment & reliability in applications

56:49 — Cancellations: problems → opportunities

01:01:51 — Communication that keeps shoots on track

01:07:01 — Event reflections & lessons learned

01:12:17 — Planning & organising shoots (tools/process)

01:18:41 — Assistants (deep dive): safety, logistics, speed

01:26:24 — Photographer experiences on the ground

01:33:33 — Scheduling to avoid burnout

01:43:08 — Locations & logistics (travel time matters)

01:48:14 — Geography: picking the right spot

01:59:09 — The economics of running a photocon

02:05:52 — The future of European Photocons

If you enjoyed this, hit Subscribe and drop your questions below — we’ll pull the best ones for a future Q&A on how to prep your portfolio, find assistants, and plan a two-day photocon like a pro.

📺 Binge more episodes: youtube.com/@CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy

🎧 Audio version on Spotify/feeds: search “Cosplay, Togs & All Things Nerdy”

This conversation explores the experiences and insights gained from attending the Focus Cosplay event in France, highlighting the unique aspects of European photocons, the importance of planning and logistics, the role of assistants, and the collaborative nature of cosplay photography. The speakers reflect on the cost-effectiveness of attending such events and the cultural exchanges that occur, emphasising the need for more UK participants to embrace these opportunities.

Event: Focus Cosplay in France

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/focus_cosplay/

Website: https://focuscosplay.fr/en/

Hosts Socials:

Darren - iPhotoUK - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/iphotouk/

Tom - Switch Photography - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/switch_gn/

Podcast Socials:

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Focus Cosplay Event

02:56 - Experiencing European Photocons

05:52 - Planning and Logistics of Photoshoots

09:00 - The Social Aspect of Cosplay Events

12:05 - Cost and Value of Attending

15:00 - The Role of Assistants in Photoshoots

17:56 - Collaborative Editing Process

21:02 - Cultural Differences and Language Barriers

23:51 - Conclusion and Future Plans

Switch's Camera had tech issues for the first 1 hour 40 minutes, but don't worry, you don't need to look at me, just listen, is fine.

We’re back chatting all things movies, TV, and nerd culture. In this episode, we dive into Jurassic World Rebirth, the buzz around Superman and Supergirl, and the unexpected hype for K-Pop Demon Hunters. We also look ahead to Tron and Mortal Kombat 2, plus shows like Mobland, Wednesday, and Alien Earth.Along the way, we delve into superhero fatigue, the new Star Trek series, gaming trends, upcoming conventions, and the launch of our new project, Nexus 13. It’s a mix of nostalgia, excitement, and plenty of laughs as we share what’s got us hooked right now.

Covert Stubbz's friend, who is a trophy hunter, linked here as we talk about Gears of War and Hollow Knights.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCaFdmUuShXmZ-450CPjc6Ew

Hosts Socials:

Darren - iPhotoUK - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/iphotouk/

Tom - Switch Photography - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/switch_gn/

Podcast Socials:

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Nexus 13:

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/_nexus.13/

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Overview of Recent Media

05:06 - Action Films: Nobody 2 and Nostalgia for 80s/90s

11:00 - Snow White: A Nostalgic Remake

20:09 - How to Train Your Dragon: Live Action Adaptation

25:13 - Superman: A New Hope for DC Films

32:08 - Fantastic Four: A Mixed Bag

39:52 - Reviving Classic Comedies: Naked Gun and Eddie Murphy

50:18 - Anticipating Upcoming Films: Predator Badlands and Supergirl

57:12 - Exploring New Cinematic Universes: Christopher Nolan's Odyssey

01:05:11 - Tron Aries: A Long-Awaited Sequel

01:11:36 - TV Series Highlights and Recommendations

01:19:29 - Exploring New Shows and Their Impact

01:28:55 - Diving into Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

01:36:18 - The Buzz Around Gen V and The Boys

01:39:19 - Anticipation for Upcoming Events

02:00:01 - Excitement for Future Series

02:05:11 - Spin-offs and New Releases

02:13:37 - Anticipating Upcoming Star Trek Projects

02:22:16 - Gears of War: Nostalgia and New Releases

02:30:56 Classic Films in 4K and Personal Connections

02:36:07 Collaborating with Spores: A Creative Journey

02:44:07 Upcoming Events and Conventions

02:49:36 Introducing Nexus: A New Project

03:02:08 Future Plans and Event Insights

In this episode, we dive into what gives a photo that cinematic feel. Joined by guest Miguel Almario, we explore the art of storytelling through lighting, emotion, and composition. From cosplay to landscapes, we share personal experiences, talk gear and editing, and reflect on the golden age of creative photography. Whether you're into moody palettes or big ideas, this one's packed with insight and inspiration for visual storytellers.

Gust Socials:

Migual Almario - ThisMigualAlmario - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/thismiguelalmario/

Website: https://www.arsonisticfilmcompany.com/

Hosts Socials:

Darren - iPhotoUK - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/iphotouk/

Tom - Switch Photography - Insta: https://www.instagram.com/switch_gn/

Podcast Socials:

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/CosplayTogsAndAllThingsNerdy?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Cinematic Photography

14:27 - The Trend of 'Cinematic' in Photography

18:48 - Intent and Inspiration in Cinematic Photography

28:32 - Lighting Techniques for Cinematic Shots

37:24 - Gear and Equipment for Cinematic Photography

44:48 - Medium Format Cameras and Their Appeal

52:27 - Anamorphic Lenses and Their Characteristics

01:08:06 - The Influence of Anamorphic on Photography

01:17:27 - Editing Techniques and Software Choices

01:28:06 - Shooting Events: US vs UK

01:38:12 - The Evolution of Cosplay Photography Events

01:44:12 - The Rise of Cosplay and Photography

02:03:21 - The Golden Age of Cosplay Culture

02:09:44 - Show and Tell: Cinematic Photography

02:22:09 - Capturing Emotion in Photography

02:28:52 - Landscape Photography with a Cinematic Twist

02:35:05 - Creating Atmosphere in Photography

02:40:57 - Behind the Scenes: Spontaneity in Photography

02:45:52 - Thematic Projects and Inspirations

03:00:04 - Future Projects and Creative Aspirations

03:07:59 - Gear Talk: What's on Your Radar?

03:13:03 - Cinematic Tips for Budding Filmmakers

03:23:19 - Favourite Cinematic Inspirations: Films and Series