Scenes from VidCon: Fans and stars share the joy of mixing and mingling despite tighter security
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The Anaheim Convention Center was packed with Internet video creators, the stars of the online world and the thousands of fans who enjoy watching them this past weekend for the seventh edition of VidCon.
In the wake of the killing of YouTube star, “The Voice” contestant and 2013 VidCon alum Christina Grimmie, as well as the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, Fla., security measures at this year’s event were heightened and access to online stars was limited. Despite the new measures, laughs, shrieks of joy and dance parties could be heard echoing throughout the convention center.
Internet star Gabrielle Hanna, right, from ‘The Gabbie Show” poses for photos with some of her fans. It is not uncommon to see VidCon attendees chattering away to their phone or digital camera while in the Expo Hall, outside by the food trucks or waiting in line for a panel. Yes, these people are at a YouTube convention making a YouTube video.
A competitor on “American Ninja Warrior” attempts the obstacle course erected by NBC inside the Expo Hall. The network’s display for the reality competition is one example of how Hollywood has begun to invade the VidCon scene. Also staking their claim were the films “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” “The Secret Life of Pets” and “Sing.”
Dancing emojis joined in on the fun at VidCon, where emoji-heavy apps like Snapchat and Instagram now have a prominent place.
Streaming service Netflix staged an elaborate booth and lounge featuring a “Fuller House” photo op and a re-creation of Luke’s Diner from the upcoming “Gilmore Girls” reboot.
Security guards constantly patrolled Expo Hall, the area outside the convention center, in the hotels near the panelist rooms, in the lobbies and everywhere in between. “It is a lot more controlled,” said second-time VidCon attendee Stephen Hatch, 20, of Washington.
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