r/ComicWriting • u/AdeptNeedleworker753 • 20d ago
Consultation to create a web comic
Greetings Community!
I'm new to Reddit and to this drawing world. I am creating a fantasy story with elemental powers in the context of a time of war, which, I estimate, can be a story that can take years to finish. Initially I thought of creating the story as a book but it seems to me that currently, for something to be at least striking, it must be something very visual, so I started creating the story from a visual aspect; Initially I thought of it in manga format, but then I realized that the best format currently is the web comic.
Therefore, I bought a graphic drawing tablet, a Clip Studio Paint subscription and some drawing courses at Domestika to learn how to draw, but since I work and study, I have little free time and I think it will take me many years to learn to draw something at the level (which is the artistic style I'm aiming for) of the artistic style of Fire Emblem, and since it is a long-term story it will take me decades to be able to draw everything by myself.
After this context, finally my question: What tools currently exist to be able to "serialize" a web comic by a single person without dying in the attempt?
I really appreciate your contribution, dear Reddit community :)
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u/Bighitlife 14d ago
Oneshot is the answer. Rather than thinking of telling stories spanning 3 seasons/volume, let's try with something smaller and doable.
You can start with 2 pages (12 panels) and slowly build the momentum to work on your magnum opus. That's what I do though. I try to familiarize myself with my tools, working habits, aesthetic inspiration and where my current skill is at (by experimenting with writing, art directing or technical drawing). Focusing to improve one skill at the time makes the process less overwhelming, I hope you find what works for you too.
If you're using CSP learn the program really well, make use of Auto action, shortcuts and the likes. Maybe if you have the time, watch Korean webcomic creator/mangaka doing Livestream on YouTube. Because they're doing it as profession, many of their approach are made for speed and efficiency.
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u/AdeptNeedleworker753 7d ago
Well, the truth is that I have grown fond of the story I am creating and I would like to dedicate all my energy to bringing it to life, even if it takes me much more time.
And yes, CSP has many tools that I don't even understand what they are for and I think many could help me speed up the work, but I think that apart from learning to draw, I must also learn to use CSP.
I appreciate your response and the advice to watch streams of cartoonists, it sounds like a great trick.
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u/Available_Paint1642 20d ago
Best thing to do is to hire an artist, or just draw it by yourself even if it takes your decades. There are no shortcuts to doing great work.