Fandoms are a subculture surrounding a particular genre of generally pop culture. Fans are connected through their empathy and a sense of community stemming from their common interest. Usually, fandoms are linked to an individual celebrity, group, film, genre, book, fictional characters, etc. Each group or fandom is complexed in nature and often has sublayers. Conventions are the stomping ground for fandoms and allow fans to express their passion for their “fav”. Oftentimes these events can span from a weekend to an entire week of festivities and all-around “geekiness”.
They are in essence their own world and have a unique dynamic constructed into each of them.
The loyalty to fandoms can be so extreme that there has been an increase in a phenomenon known as “fan wars”. Typically, a harmless but impassioned debate about which fandom is better.
History
Fandoms have been around for as long as consumable media has existed. They are derived from the passion and reception on the audience’s part. Fandoms and the growth and success of a given genre are undeniably intertwined. They have been a way for people to share a sense of community, storytelling, and a fun hobby to break up an otherwise monotonous day. In recent eras, the birth of the internet has increased not only the popularity of being a part of a fandom but also the size and global participation. Participation is one of the major contributors to its ever-growing popularity. Along with the power to shape and contribute to the development of today’s culture.
Ways to Understand the Different Types
For marketing and development, it is essential to understand the different types of fandoms and what role they play. The folklore culture that is at the root of it makes the field diverse and colorful. There is no set standard and the creative involvement of fans is vast and ever-changing. This is perhaps the most unique feature involved in the subculture; the ability for fans to actively participate in the outcome of their most beloved “idol” changes the way marketers, developers, content creators and the like create consumable content.
Join forums
Forums are an amazing information-sharing resource. Fandoms have dedicated pages with forums that allow the community to share ideas, opinions, and theories. It is a useful well of information that creators and use to their advantage. Often you can find out what fans want and even source otherwise unthought-of ideas. It also gives a sense of connection where fans feel as though they are that much more involved with their genre of choice.
Observe and Ask Questions
One smart way to understanding the different types of fandoms is to get involved. Whether that is through creating a simulation, live script reading, or a focus group, you will get a feel for what a particular fandom is all about. Use a focus group guide to help you with anything you may not understand when it comes to conducting one. Focus groups are particularly useful as you can screen the people that you’re presenting your project before participation.
Get Involved
The best and most effective way of understanding the different types of fandoms is by simply getting involved. Dive into their world and see things from the eyes of the community. Whether you dive headfirst into cosplay, go to a convention, or job a book club, it doesn’t matter. Getting involved will give you a better insight into what motivates these people and why they are so loyal and passionate about their given topic.
Fandoms have become an intrinsic part of pop culture today. They help to shape and determine how long the popularity of a particular genre will last. For any brand, group, film, television series, etc, turning your fans into a fandom with its own culture will make you stand out. This will help you to leave a mark on whatever market you’re a part of and guarantee longevity. Building a loyal fandom is a smart and practical practice to verse yourself in. The culture is constantly changing and fandoms are a part of the reason why. Don’t underestimate the power that they wield and be smart about understanding them. Learning to cultivate and mobilize them correctly can be a game-changer.
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