Welcome to the Nihongo Lesson feature. We strive to give you useful manga-based Japanese language tips and maybe even a glimpse into the translation process. This week’s lesson will aid you in being polite when dealing with cosplayers. It’s something the Shonen Jump photographer asked every time he took a picture for our awesome AX Cosplay Gallery!

SHASHIN (しゃしん)

SHASHIN means “photograph.” It’s good etiquette to always ask a cosplayer for permission before taking a picture. So make sure you do it, especially in Japan. Believe it or not, some cosplayers are shy!

Kitora from World Trigger kindly requests that you not take her photo.

Get permission or get pounded like Sakurai from Cross Manage!

SHASHIN TOTTEMO IIDESUKA
(しゃしんとってもいいですか)

This is a long sentence, but it’s how you politely ask “May I take your picture?” Now, once you’ve mastered this long version, you can shorten it to the simplified “SHASHIN II?” This is something like “Picture, okay?” Our photographer had trouble remembering the long version so we were forced to go with Plan B.

Shu from Nisekoi is a very talented photographer. Sure, he often forgets to ask for permission but sometimes his photos save the day!

And once you’ve taken someone’s picture, make sure to thank them with a heartfelt ARIGATO!

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