The former is easy to nail down. You just need to spend a few minutes to figure it out. To say ok, we’re targeting X-Y and Z–that’s who this comic is for.

Here’s two examples of the latter (keeping it on course for X,Y and Z, or more accurately examples of not keeping it on course):

• You’re working on a slasher horror comic. Catering to real, long-time horror fans. But when it comes to your death scenes, you hold your punches a bit, trying to appeal to people not totally into gore.
• You’re working on an adult themed film noir book. There’s a lot of steamy sex… BUT worried parents will keep it out of the hands of their kids, you depict your sex scenes in a PG-13 fashion.

Never rob your core audience of the things they’ve come to see.

On the contrary, you want to amp those elements up to volume 11. A smaller audience of die-hard fans will generate more momentum for your book, then a wider audience of indifferent fans. And in indie comics, if you corner the market on your intended audience, even if it’s a smaller one, your project is going to be a huge success.▪

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.