Writer's Guide 101 (Wattpad Edition)

XXXIX. Graphic Novels

It's one of those mediums that isn't much heard of around Wattpad. I bet it's interesting to cover this more especially to my dear young readers who might also be interested in this topic.

If you're thinking it's just another genre, then it's not. It's made in the style of a comic book. The difference is they mostly follow one big plot. They can either be adaptations of other famous novels or an original standalone series.

The Artemis Fowl graphic novel was adapted from the same book by Eoin Colfer. It's about a twelve-year-old genius from a wealthy family who seeks to find his father.  

You may have heard about the Netflix show called "Hilda" but they also have graphic novels under Flying Eye Books (an imprint of Nobrow Press). It's about the young titular protagonist discovering the world of trolls.
     Now, there is no right or wrong way in making a graphic novel. The only limit here is your imagination. You can use Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator if you're a pro! However, you're also free to use any software available on your devices.
    The art styles can be anything depending on the intended demographic. For instance, a simple and bright art style can appeal to younger readers.

Size/Dimensions. As for the size, you can opt for anything from A4, Legal (8.5 x 11 in.) or 6.877 x 10.437 inches. For instance, "BIOMETRICS" follows the standard Marvel/DC comic size of 6.877 x 42.672 in. (25.7 x 16.8 cm).

Layout. This one is very important. The same thing can be applied to "SYNTHETIC BLUE." I improved on the lettering by making them much bigger in the following chapters and get creative with the panels. Thank God with mobile devices you can just zoom in to get a closer look anyway!
   You should be able to guide your readers' eyes across the page. The caption bubbles shouldn't be taking up much space or compressed against the margins. Again, SB has been guilty of this as I was drawing it on my phone.
Do we read this one from left to right or vice-versa (the traditional Japanese way)? Is it going to be a spread page? Who is the one talking? How do we know if they're whispering or talking in a foreign tongue (e.g. an alien is represented by a black and blue caption bubble)?

Illustration. Graphic novels tend to have a lot of details especially on the backgrounds. Working on these kinds of books has helped me improve my anatomy, perspectives and draw other things outside my comfort zone/interests. 

Good writing. Of course, we can't forget about good writing. What I did was write a whole summary of the story that I wanted to work on.
   You should be able to figure out the setting, plot and characters. The summary must serve as a guide once you begin with your graphic novel.
    I try to make a few doodles as a way of brainstorming. How should the setting and characters look like?
    Once I have already thought of good ideas, I begin with the rough storyboards on paper. I would add in the dialogue and script, but some parts can be changed with the final product. The storyboards are supposed to guide you on how the storyline should be.
    As someone who's inspired by Japanese culture, I always add in some slow moments and pillow shots (basically a still scene that sets in the mood of the story).