How to not be awkward when meeting characters?

[blobberhead]

I think it's really fun to meet characters, but I never know how to strike up conversation. For example, when I met Pooh, I didn't know what to ask/say so I just asked Pooh if I could get a picture with him, which he of course obliged.

Obviously I don't care about having a long conversation, but having a conversation starter would be helpful, to keep a playful mood. How do you guys start off your character interactions?

FWIW, I'm an adult male.

 

[cdnjason]

Try some of these tips...

http://www.kennythepirate.com/disney-world-character-schedules/character-interaction-ideas/

 

[MeridaAnn]

I've found that having something for the characters to sign is the best ice breaker! Whether it's a signature book or a picture frame or a baseball cap or anything else, it gives a nice way to start the interaction and gives both of you a bit of time to figure out something to say. Even if it's just mentioning who else has already signed, that can lead into more of a conversation. The character will often take the lead in striking up a conversation - commenting on something you're wearing or a souvenir you've brought along or anything like that - and having something for them to sign gives them (and you) a few extra seconds to find something to talk about.

 

[Mikie]

If you've been to Disney before and have met them, you can talk about how long it's been since you've seen them. If you have pictures of yourself at Disney at any age, especially of you with that character, you'd get awesome reactions showing those pictures or having the character sign it.

I find it easy to talk about their story line: tell Russell in AK that you were a scout too, ask Tiana about her favorite foods, ask the Cinderella mice if they helped make Cinderellas ball gown.

It might be funny to talk about something you're interested in and see how they react to a discussion about sports or your cycling or love of cooking for instance (or whatever your hobbies are!)

 

[OldSchoolReasons]

I recommend planning an opening gambit beforehand - the more you get in the more you get back! For example I asked Maleficent for style tips (spoiler alert: I don't wear enough black) and we went from there.
I absolutely hated meeting face characters until recently because I get cringed out but it's actually really fun.

 

[K_Jordan]

I think it's fun to mention their "friends." For example, ask Pooh is Tigger has been bouncing all day or if Rabbit is working in the garden. Also, like someone else said KennythePirate has a list of great tips!