If you’re like me, flagging a panel as full page art in a script is easy to do.
It’s almost second nature to separate a powerful, emotional panel that capture the essence of the story and emphasize an immediate story element (whether it’s jeopardy, action, comedy, tension… whatever).
But if you’re also anything like me, you usually run with a surplus of content and this means editing… or as I like to call it “professionally executed cramming.”
If you’re really long on content, or jammed up for space, it’s easy to send your full page art pages to the sacrificial alter, like some Mayan High Priest…
I mean when your pressed for space, devoting an entire page for a single panel of story telling just seems insane.
Well put on your crazy hat and bring in the virgins (substitutes for the full page sacrifice), because the full page art needs to stay!
Beyond the obvious dramatic impact and affect on pacing, full page art lets the story breathe.
It subtly gives the reader a break from a long narrative while simultaneously putting emphasis on what came just before and just after.
When you’re jammed up with too much content, don’t toss away the full page art for more story-telling… instead tell the story a little different and include the full page art–9.5 times out of ten it will lead to a better comic experience. ▪
About the Author —
Nick Macari is a full-time freelance story consultant, developmental editor and writer, working primarily in the independent gaming and comic markets. His first published comic appeared on shelves via Diamond in the late 90’s. Today you can find his comic work on comixology, amazon and in select stores around the U.S. Visit NickMacari.com for social media contacts and news on his latest releases.
For more tips, bookmark the writing craft page. For all the tips buy the book.
Show your support by sharing the writing craft page on your social media.