Drawing comics is more difficult than regular drawings. The author must have not only an artistic, but also a writing style. In addition, it is necessary to have a good knowledge of the theory of drawing: the construction of compositions, the choice of colors and the correct use of tools.
Choose a drawing method: classic or computer. In the first case, you will need blank sheets of paper, pencils of different hardness, a ruler and a good eraser. If you are going to get serious about creating comics, you can purchase a special tilting table. You will also need a lamp and an automatic sharpener.
If you want to draw comics on your computer, you have to fork out for a graphics tablet. This device allows using a special pen to create images directly in a graphics editor. You can use both regular programs that allow you to simply draw (Photoshop, PaintToolSAI), and specialized applications for comic authors (MangaStudio).
Characters (edit)
The basis of any comic is characters. You must not only think over the appearance of the hero in the smallest details, but also create his character. What are his main motives, how he looks at the world, what kind of people he likes, and so on. It is best to make separate cards, which will indicate the background of the character, his favorite and unloved things, as well as the approximate role in the plot.
It is recommended to create at least two main characters: the protagonist and the antagonist. This will add interest to the plot. Confrontations and difficulties always attract more attention. Also, do not make all characters of the same gender. Pretty girls playing secondary roles often become much more popular than the main character.
Plot
It doesn't matter if you're drawing a funny or instructive story - never draw a comic until you've come up with a plot. This will allow you to better arrange shots and accurately portray the feelings of the characters.
Particular attention should be paid to the environment. In the book, the author himself describes the location of the characters using metaphors. You will also have to portray a dark forest, an interrogation room and much more. Therefore, it is better to first describe each scene in words (you can record or dictate on a dictaphone), and only then proceed to the image.
Remember the constituent parts of the work: prologue, exposition, setting, development of actions, climax, denouement and epilogue. It is not necessary to include all of them, but they will help to develop the plot correctly.
Composition
Remember that comics cannot begin and end with spreads, for these parts are allocated a separate strip. The first frame should always contain the environment with the smallest details, this will allow the reader to immediately immerse themselves in the atmosphere. Each separate spread should contain a completed action, like a paragraph in a text.
It is better to place the main events and actions in the corners, and give the minor ones the middle of the page. It is best if the last frame of each spread contains a phrase or action that will interest the reader and make him turn the page. Remember that wide horizontal shots slow down the action, while vertical shots, on the contrary, speed up.
