The Motor City Comic Con is not a newcomer on the convention scene, but I can’t help but feel it’s a late-bloomer still unsure how things are meant to run.

The 2012 convention was held in Detroit, Michigan, last month and turnout this year appeared much higher than the rain-plagued 2011 event. Walking through the comics side of the Suburban Collection Showplace proved difficult as crowds clamored around the various comic and collectible vendors. Big name artists like Ethan Van Sciver and Talent Caldwell were almost always seen talking with fans or busy working on sketches.

But conventions like this are also a good place for smaller, local talents to find a wider audience. I Love Lightning Bugs, a band heralding from Royal Oak, Michigan, had a booth showcasing both their music and a new comic book illustrated by local artist Mindy McPeak featuring the band members adventures into the paranormal. First looks suggest a Gorillaz-esque alternative reality but with protagonists based on real people.

One of the big attractions for convention-goers of all ages is the chance to dress up like their favorite characters from comics, anime, movies, cartoons, and video games. So it was not surprising that a number of dedicated cosplayers showed up at Motor City Comic Con last weekend wearing intricately detailed outfits. While many competed in the costume contest, others were just there to have fun, posing for pictures with others guests and interacting with each other in moments of cross-genre roleplaying.

Here are some of the outfits that really stood out at the 2012 Motor City Comic Con.