So here's the opening page for that story idea I was talking about way back when... I wanted to experiment with a different genre, and also try out using color for a change. Am realizing that at some point I have to decide whether I am composing this as a web comic or stick with the traditional 6.5 x 10" format, because you lose a lot of detail when you show an entire vertical page on-screen. Thoughts? Advice?

Comments (5)
Tess,
I really like your colors and sense of space. You do need to decide on the format but even if you go with a more web friendly look you can always find a way to go to print on it later. Look at Shudderbug Follies by Jason Little...that started on the web and was easily transformed to a beautiful book. Granted he had real publishing money behind him. hee heee :-) Can't wait to see more.
Peace,
Herc
Posted by Herc | February 16, 2007 8:17 PM
Posted on February 16, 2007 20:17
Yeah, the big decision is whether to compose each panel sequence for landscape (web) or portrait (print) format. Although of course you can print things in landscape too, but it's less common.
Right now I'm leaning towards staying with portrait and just printing in color off my own inkjet. Especially I can get the pages to register while doing the black line art on my laser printer, that would be supercool. Could be something to bring to cons--and it wouldn't break the bank.
I have my "serious" illustrated project (Southern Cross) for which I've followed all the standard advice to find agent, publisher, etc. Probably spent as much time trying to sell it as on the book itself. The pitch is going out this month, so we'll see what happens.
This comic is just for fun. Everybody needs a side project like that, if only to prevent burnout on the big, stress-inducing ones.
Posted by Tess | February 17, 2007 4:08 PM
Posted on February 17, 2007 16:08
I like this Tess.
It has a Tim Burton feel to it but it's all your own style at the same time.
Posted by Matt | February 18, 2007 12:01 PM
Posted on February 18, 2007 12:01
Very cool to see you do some color work, Tess. I hear you on the web vs. print format though I would say that portrait is the most hybrid format. Works very well here.
Posted by Rich | February 18, 2007 7:12 PM
Posted on February 18, 2007 19:12
I really like this. It's engaging and makes me NEED to see the next page. the lettering is crisp and clean. as far as which format, do what you think looks best and works best for the story. I definitely agree that portrait style is the most versatile, but if you did it landscape, perhaps you could run 2 strips per printed page. Just a thought.
Posted by John | February 20, 2007 8:49 AM
Posted on February 20, 2007 08:49