The graphic novel industry is experiencing a revolution. The industry is projected to perform excellently in the coming years. Technology has made it possible to come up with thrilling and creative graphic novels. So, if you still have a dream to invest in this highly promising industry, you are on the right track. Hire the right graphic novel illustrators. Follow the rules. Below, you will find top tips to help you create your exciting graphic novel.
Introduction
A graphic novel is a type of novel that uses graphical illustrations to tell a story. The main purpose of a graphic novel is to simply a story using illustrations. That’s why graphic novels are longer than comic books.
Tell A Passionate Story
Tell a story you love. You need a story you have a strong connection with. Personalize the story. It should be something you have thought about for months or years. It should make a lot of sense in your life.
Research First
You need to get the facts right. Thus, be sure to conduct extensive research regarding that story. Investigate it well. You should be sure about what you want. Get involved in the story. It’s like your new world with its laws and even history.
Take Notes
Write down your ideas. Distill the ideas into a graphic novel. Words can be changed later., But writing them down is important for future reference. Don’t be afraid to write more words. You can erase or change them as you finalize the main idea.
Proper Work Illustration Is Key
Don’t let your ambition outstrip your artistic abilities. According to experts, you should find a style you can adopt over the entire project. Don’t choose something you cannot do. Choose a look your graphic designers can easily accomplish.
Clear Timelines
Any project should have clear timelines. You cannot work on a project for years. Having timelines ensures that you achieve specific milestones. Thus, sit down. Plan your project. Allocate each section time. Share your timelines with your designers. Track the progress. Address issues in real-time to minimize lost time.
It’s Not Just About Text. Illustrations Are Important
Creating great content is good. However, the reader also wants to see the best illustrations. The flow of your story should be excellent. Include medium, long, and close-up shots whenever possible. Have a particular sequence in mind. These are the things that will keep the reader engaged.
Never Give Up
Creating a good graphic novel is a process. It requires time. Your dedication is needed. You should be patient. There are times that you feel like giving up. But don’t give up yet. You are too closer to the finish line to give up. Keep pushing. It’s going to work soon. Allow the project to take its natural course. Don’t pressure the designers. Don’t push your creative team to the wall. Give the project sufficient time.
Top Characteristics of a Good Novel
Get the facts right before creating a graphic novel. Understanding the basics will help you avoid making common mistakes graphic novel authors make. The following are the top 5 characteristics any graphic novel should possess:
Basic Shapes
The vertical represents the signal’s strength. The horizontal shape is used to represent a tranquil, stable atmosphere. Circles are the signal of unity. A stable, unified atmosphere is represented by a moving triangle. If you want to signal action, use whole diagonals.
Frame Perspectives
It’s also important to understand how the frames are used. In most cases, different frames are used depending on different perspectives. Here is a breakdown of how these frames are used in creating a graphic novel:
- Close-ups—To establish or show an emotional relationship that exists between you and the characters, use close-ups.
- Medium Shot—The work of the medium shot is to show how the characters, figures, etc. are related to the surrounding environment.
Angles
Angles are key elements in graphic novels. Different angles are used to show different subjects. Here are a few of these angles:
- Vertical Angle—The vertical angle is used to salute you (i.e., the reader) and the character. It salutes both parties equally.
- Low angle—The low angle is used to salute the characters, especially those holding powerful positions.
- High angle—Readers, who are in powerful positions, are saluted using a high angle.
Structure
Structure, an important element of graphic novels, is used to show how information is perceived by the reader. Here is how the structure is used in graphic novels:
- Given—Given shows that the reader knows the information. However, the information is either not taken seriously or ignored.
- New—New shows that the reader doesn’t know the information. That’s why it attracts the attention of the reader.
Layout
The layout is used to exhibit a certain experience. Book designers use this feature creatively to show an experience in different contexts.
Panels—Panels are used to offer a unique experience. The experience is more than that of reading the actual text. For instance, the spatial arrangements make the use associate the present and the future. They use instant as well as direct transitions.
Frame
The frame represents the borderlines in panels. They are like those found in picture frames.
Gutter
Frames panels are separated by a space known as a gutter. It’s like the cardboard-based space in real pictures.
Bleed
Sometimes, images may extend beyond a page’s end. This is known as bleed.
Key Takeaway
Graphic novels are exciting Creating them leaves a lasting fulfillment in the heart of the author. They involve a lot of creativity and dedication. Thus, if you are planning to create your next graphic novel, be sure to understand the basics. Know the rules. Master the art of using images. Use the right layout. This will make your book sell.
The Bottom-Line
If you have a dream, make it real today. Plan your graphic novel now. You can do it. All you need is to master the basics. The above are practical tips and tricks for creating a thrilling graphic novel that sells.
