3 answers
Cadence
Student
Delavan, Wisconsin
2
Questions
Asked
590 views
Does anyone have tips for being a webtoonist? I mean, I know the Basics, anyway i could do it better?
Im going to begin posting in november, and I could use critiques.
thank you all.https://m.webtoons.com/en/canvas/chronicles-of-chaos/list?title_no=906818
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3 answers
Scott Arnold
Director of Design
3
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Scott’s Answer
Hi, Cadence
My day job is as a designer - but on the side, I have been making comics and cartoons for as long as I can remember.
There is a saying; if you want to be a cartoonist, make cartoons.
I honestly think that is the biggest hurdle. Lots of people may love drawing, but not everyone actually follows through on an idea. I checked out your link - the character design looks fun, and unique - which is a great first step. There was some advice above mine on finding your voice, and finding what makes you unique - that is all important. I think the best way to do that - is to make comics.
The whole nature of telling stories in comics is one that improves with practice. How do you frame the characters? How do you learn what to show? What not to show? Reading comics is one great way to learn; but if you want to make comics, I also recommend studying the comics you love. Ask yourself what you really like about a comic.
I'll use Raina Telgemeier's "Smile" as an example; she has a really clean storytelling style - almost like a webtoon more than a manga comic, for example. She tells personal stories - stories that are easy to relate to. She tells honest stories - she isn't afraid to talk about fighting with her sister, or feeling embarrassed. Honesty can really help.
That's one way to tell a story. Dav Pilkey does things differently in "Dogman," and Eiichiro Oda is different still in "One Piece." The reason I use some of these examples is simply to say; there are lots of ways to tell stories... and you should study the comics you love to figure out what kind of storyteller you want to be.
Then make comics.
Setting a schedule is great - it helps build readers. If they know to come back every week, or every month, or every 3 days... whatever the schedule, knowing when you can consistently find the next strip is a great way to build readers. If you miss one - don't panic - just be sure you put the next one up in time. It takes a lot of practice, and your first comics may not look exactly how you want them to - but you need to draw comics to get better at drawing comics.
Good luck - I can't wait to see what your Webtoons story will be.
If you want some good books on the subject, I recommend Scott McCloud's books; Understanding Comics and Making Comics.
My day job is as a designer - but on the side, I have been making comics and cartoons for as long as I can remember.
There is a saying; if you want to be a cartoonist, make cartoons.
I honestly think that is the biggest hurdle. Lots of people may love drawing, but not everyone actually follows through on an idea. I checked out your link - the character design looks fun, and unique - which is a great first step. There was some advice above mine on finding your voice, and finding what makes you unique - that is all important. I think the best way to do that - is to make comics.
The whole nature of telling stories in comics is one that improves with practice. How do you frame the characters? How do you learn what to show? What not to show? Reading comics is one great way to learn; but if you want to make comics, I also recommend studying the comics you love. Ask yourself what you really like about a comic.
I'll use Raina Telgemeier's "Smile" as an example; she has a really clean storytelling style - almost like a webtoon more than a manga comic, for example. She tells personal stories - stories that are easy to relate to. She tells honest stories - she isn't afraid to talk about fighting with her sister, or feeling embarrassed. Honesty can really help.
That's one way to tell a story. Dav Pilkey does things differently in "Dogman," and Eiichiro Oda is different still in "One Piece." The reason I use some of these examples is simply to say; there are lots of ways to tell stories... and you should study the comics you love to figure out what kind of storyteller you want to be.
Then make comics.
Setting a schedule is great - it helps build readers. If they know to come back every week, or every month, or every 3 days... whatever the schedule, knowing when you can consistently find the next strip is a great way to build readers. If you miss one - don't panic - just be sure you put the next one up in time. It takes a lot of practice, and your first comics may not look exactly how you want them to - but you need to draw comics to get better at drawing comics.
Good luck - I can't wait to see what your Webtoons story will be.
Scott recommends the following next steps:
Jill Barrientos
13
Answers
Updated
Jill’s Answer
Certainly, here's a corrected and improved version of your advice for aspiring artists:
1. **Consistency is Key:** First and foremost, maintain consistency in your artistic endeavors. Even when you're not entirely satisfied with the results, make sure to publish your work on a regular schedule. Consistency keeps your audience engaged and informed about your creative journey.
2. **Discover Your Niche:** Find your niche in the world of art. Identify what truly excites you and ignites your passion. Whether it's abstract painting, digital art, photography, or any other form, focusing on what you love will drive your creativity and help you stand out.
3. **Self-Advocacy:** Be your own advocate. Promote your work and showcase your unique perspective. Use social media platforms and art-sharing websites to reach a wider audience. Share your thoughts and inspiration behind your creations to connect with your viewers on a deeper level.
4. **Engage with Successful Artists:** Invest time in following and engaging with established artists in your chosen field. Comment on their posts and engage in thoughtful discussions about their work. Networking with successful artists can offer valuable insights and inspiration.
5. **Seek Advice:** Don't hesitate to ask for advice from experienced artists. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help. Reach out to them through direct messages or comments. Ask specific questions about their techniques, creative process, or their journey in the art world. Learning from others can accelerate your growth as an artist.
Remember, your artistic journey is unique, and it's essential to stay true to your passion and vision. While learning from others is valuable, it's equally important to retain your individuality and create art that reflects your personal style and perspective. Keep evolving, keep experimenting, and stay dedicated to your craft. Your artistic path is an ongoing exploration that will lead to growth and success over time.
1. **Consistency is Key:** First and foremost, maintain consistency in your artistic endeavors. Even when you're not entirely satisfied with the results, make sure to publish your work on a regular schedule. Consistency keeps your audience engaged and informed about your creative journey.
2. **Discover Your Niche:** Find your niche in the world of art. Identify what truly excites you and ignites your passion. Whether it's abstract painting, digital art, photography, or any other form, focusing on what you love will drive your creativity and help you stand out.
3. **Self-Advocacy:** Be your own advocate. Promote your work and showcase your unique perspective. Use social media platforms and art-sharing websites to reach a wider audience. Share your thoughts and inspiration behind your creations to connect with your viewers on a deeper level.
4. **Engage with Successful Artists:** Invest time in following and engaging with established artists in your chosen field. Comment on their posts and engage in thoughtful discussions about their work. Networking with successful artists can offer valuable insights and inspiration.
5. **Seek Advice:** Don't hesitate to ask for advice from experienced artists. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help. Reach out to them through direct messages or comments. Ask specific questions about their techniques, creative process, or their journey in the art world. Learning from others can accelerate your growth as an artist.
Remember, your artistic journey is unique, and it's essential to stay true to your passion and vision. While learning from others is valuable, it's equally important to retain your individuality and create art that reflects your personal style and perspective. Keep evolving, keep experimenting, and stay dedicated to your craft. Your artistic path is an ongoing exploration that will lead to growth and success over time.
wow! thank you so so much this helps a lot!!!!
Cadence
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6180
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Greetings, Cadence from Delavan! This is James, all the way from Australia's Gold Coast, at your service to address your query!
You're seeking advice on enhancing your web cartoonist skills, even though you're already familiar with the basics. You're planning to start posting in November and are open to constructive criticism. I appreciate your proactive approach! Here's the link to your work: https://m.webtoons.com/en/canvas/chronicles-of-chaos/list?title_no=906818
Guidelines for Thriving as a Web Cartoonist
To thrive as a web cartoonist, you need a blend of artistic flair, storytelling prowess, and a deep grasp of your target audience's preferences. Here are some suggestions to refine your skills and build a bond with your readers:
1. Cultivate your style: Your distinctive style will differentiate you from other web cartoonists and make your work stand out. Experiment with various art styles, techniques, and tools to discover what suits you best.
2. Understand your audience: Knowing your target audience is vital for creating content that resonates with them. Research your audience, interact with them on social media, and incorporate their feedback into your work.
3. Craft engaging storylines: A captivating story is key to retaining your readers' interest. Develop intricate characters, plot twists, and unexpected surprises to keep your readers hooked.
4. Employ visual storytelling techniques: Web comics are a visual medium, so ensure you're using visual storytelling techniques effectively. Use panels, layout, and color to guide your readers' attention and create a sense of pacing.
5. Maintain consistency: Consistency is crucial to garnering a loyal following. Establish a regular update schedule and adhere to it, even if it's just one comic per week.
6. Connect with your readers: Building a community around your web comic requires interacting with your readers. Respond to comments, engage on social media, and consider hosting Q&A sessions or live streams.
7. Learn from others: Analyze the work of other successful web cartoonists and learn from their techniques, strategies, and successes. Attend web comic conventions, join online communities, and participate in workshops to learn from industry experts.
8. Be receptive to feedback: Constructive criticism can be a valuable tool for refining your craft. Be open to feedback from your readers and use it to polish your style and storytelling techniques.
9. Stay current with industry trends: The web comic industry is always evolving, so it's crucial to stay informed about the latest trends, tools, and platforms. Attend web comic conventions, follow industry blogs, and engage with other web cartoonists on social media.
10. Enjoy the process: Web comics are a labor of love, so ensure you're enjoying the process of creating them. Don't hesitate to experiment, take risks, and try new things – it's all part of the journey to becoming a successful web cartoonist.
References:
1. "The Webcomic Handbook: How to Create and Sell Your Own Webcomic" by Scott McCloud and Jeffrey C. Wells (2012) - This comprehensive guide covers everything from creating a compelling story to marketing and selling your web comic.
2. "Webcomics: The Complete Introduction" by Brad Guigar and Scott Kurtz (2010) - This book provides a detailed overview of the web comic industry, including tips for creating successful web comics and building a loyal following.
3. "The Art of Webcomics: How to Create Your Own Online Comic Strip" by David A. Price (2013) - This guide covers the technical and creative aspects of creating web comics, including tips for storytelling, character development, and online marketing.
By adhering to these guidelines and continually refining your skills, you'll be well on your way to becoming a successful web cartoonist. Best of luck!
I trust you'll find this information extremely beneficial.
Best regards,
JAMES.
You're seeking advice on enhancing your web cartoonist skills, even though you're already familiar with the basics. You're planning to start posting in November and are open to constructive criticism. I appreciate your proactive approach! Here's the link to your work: https://m.webtoons.com/en/canvas/chronicles-of-chaos/list?title_no=906818
Guidelines for Thriving as a Web Cartoonist
To thrive as a web cartoonist, you need a blend of artistic flair, storytelling prowess, and a deep grasp of your target audience's preferences. Here are some suggestions to refine your skills and build a bond with your readers:
1. Cultivate your style: Your distinctive style will differentiate you from other web cartoonists and make your work stand out. Experiment with various art styles, techniques, and tools to discover what suits you best.
2. Understand your audience: Knowing your target audience is vital for creating content that resonates with them. Research your audience, interact with them on social media, and incorporate their feedback into your work.
3. Craft engaging storylines: A captivating story is key to retaining your readers' interest. Develop intricate characters, plot twists, and unexpected surprises to keep your readers hooked.
4. Employ visual storytelling techniques: Web comics are a visual medium, so ensure you're using visual storytelling techniques effectively. Use panels, layout, and color to guide your readers' attention and create a sense of pacing.
5. Maintain consistency: Consistency is crucial to garnering a loyal following. Establish a regular update schedule and adhere to it, even if it's just one comic per week.
6. Connect with your readers: Building a community around your web comic requires interacting with your readers. Respond to comments, engage on social media, and consider hosting Q&A sessions or live streams.
7. Learn from others: Analyze the work of other successful web cartoonists and learn from their techniques, strategies, and successes. Attend web comic conventions, join online communities, and participate in workshops to learn from industry experts.
8. Be receptive to feedback: Constructive criticism can be a valuable tool for refining your craft. Be open to feedback from your readers and use it to polish your style and storytelling techniques.
9. Stay current with industry trends: The web comic industry is always evolving, so it's crucial to stay informed about the latest trends, tools, and platforms. Attend web comic conventions, follow industry blogs, and engage with other web cartoonists on social media.
10. Enjoy the process: Web comics are a labor of love, so ensure you're enjoying the process of creating them. Don't hesitate to experiment, take risks, and try new things – it's all part of the journey to becoming a successful web cartoonist.
References:
1. "The Webcomic Handbook: How to Create and Sell Your Own Webcomic" by Scott McCloud and Jeffrey C. Wells (2012) - This comprehensive guide covers everything from creating a compelling story to marketing and selling your web comic.
2. "Webcomics: The Complete Introduction" by Brad Guigar and Scott Kurtz (2010) - This book provides a detailed overview of the web comic industry, including tips for creating successful web comics and building a loyal following.
3. "The Art of Webcomics: How to Create Your Own Online Comic Strip" by David A. Price (2013) - This guide covers the technical and creative aspects of creating web comics, including tips for storytelling, character development, and online marketing.
By adhering to these guidelines and continually refining your skills, you'll be well on your way to becoming a successful web cartoonist. Best of luck!
I trust you'll find this information extremely beneficial.
Best regards,
JAMES.