Journey of a graphic Novel in 4 steps

1. Develop an idea

The first thing you need to do is brainstorm an idea for a story. Who is going to be an protagonist of the story, where the story is set, who is going to narrate the story, all the characters of the story, their role in the story and most importantly how the story will unfold. 

After you have an idea you need to execute it! Using human proportions correctly can help, also for your first novel using reference images will be very helpful.

Also when sketching be sure to keep in mind that the images have to tell a story, the words you will insert later will not do all of the story telling by themselves.

2.     Setup the comic layout

When setting up where what scenes should go, keep in mind the action shot and its placement. The visual layout is of an extreme importance here. Create a mood board with all the elements before laying out the comic strip.  Emotional scenes will be just as attention grabbing as any action too.

3.     Story time

When the page layout is set, begin inserting the sketches or rough drawings along with the word placement. Make a sequence and move it around until you get the correct sequence to tell your story. Your sketches should be following the storyline laid by the words.

4.     Writing!

Sketching first help in setting the base for the written story!  You don’t want to leave out any images that may otherwise make the comic better. Also, when looks back at the images it gives you something to write about!

Try to use short thought provoking sentences. Example, “I will never let go” next picture, “my love will not allow it.”