DIY or Die Trying: Unmasking the secrets of self-publishing comic-books (video).

Here’s a new video with Ed and Michel Fiffe introducing you to the noble art of self-publishing comic books. In an era where anyone with a dream and a drawing tablet can declare themselves the next Stan Lee, we find ourselves wading through a sea of aspiring comic creators. But fear not, dear reader, for you have stumbled upon the definitive guide to self-publishing comic books, a beacon of light in the murky waters of the industry, all laid out for you in the venerable pages of SFcrowsnest.

First things first, let’s address the elephant in the room—or should I say, the superhero in the room? Yes, everyone wants to create the next Spider-Man or Batman, but let’s pause for a moment. Before you put pen to paper, or more likely, stylus to screen, ask yourself: Is my caped crusader really bringing something new to the table? If your hero’s main power is shooting laser beams from their eyes while wearing tight spandex, it might be time to go back to the drawing board.

Now, assuming you’ve hurdled the originality barrier, let’s talk about the nitty-gritty: artwork. Here’s where many budding creators meet their first supervillain: inconsistent art. One page, your protagonist is a chiseled Adonis; the next, they’re more potato than person. My advice? Practice, practice, practice—or, if your wallet allows, maybe outsource to someone whose pencil is mightier than yours.

On to the storyline. This is your chance to shine, to show the world that your comic isn’t just pretty pictures—it’s literature! Or, at the very least, it’s entertaining. Please, for the love of all that is inked, avoid the dreaded exposition dump. Show, don’t tell. Yes, we know, Doctor Mysterious has a tragic past, but maybe let’s not spend ten pages detailing his every childhood trauma before he even throws a punch. So, you’ve crafted your masterpiece, and now you’re ready to unleash it upon the world. In this golden digital age, platforms abound. From Webtoon to ComiXology, the world is your oyster, but remember, with great power comes great responsibility. That is, the responsibility to market yourself. Social media isn’t just for cat videos and food pics—it’s your billboard, your marquee, and your shouting man on the street corner. Use it wisely.

But what’s this? Print, you say? Ah, a connoisseur. Yes, there’s nothing quite like the feel of paper between your fingers and the smell of fresh ink as you flip through the pages. Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo can be your best friends or your worst enemies. Set realistic goals, offer tantalizing rewards, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll hold your comic in your hands.

And, because it’s comics, let’s not forget collaboration—the magic ingredient that can transform your scrappy comic into a polished gem… or lead to more drama than your average soap opera. So, you’ve got the vision of Jack Kirby, but maybe the artistic finesse of a tipsy raccoon. Fear not, because collaboration is here to save the day, turning your one-person show into a veritable Justice League of comic creation.

Firstly, find your creative soulmates. They say it’s all about who you know, but in this digital age, it’s more like who you can Google. Websites like DeviantArt, Behance, and even LinkedIn can be your treasure maps. Online forums and communities such as Reddit’s r/comicbookcollabs are bustling with talented folks itching for a project. Bear in mind that it is similar to dating, with the exception that you are attempting to create humor rather than engage in awkward small talk over dinner.

Now, once you’ve assembled your dream team, communication is key. This isn’t the time for mysterious, brooding silences. Be clear about your vision, expectations, and deadlines. Tools like Slack or Discord can keep everyone on the same page and prevent your project from becoming a modern-day Tower of Babel. Collaboration isn’t just about herding cats and hoping for the best. It’s about compromise, too. Maybe your colorist suggests a palette you hadn’t considered, or your letterer has a font that’s just perfect, even if it wasn’t what you initially envisioned. Be open. After all, you’re all in this ink-stained boat together.

And please, oh please, don’t forget about the contracts. Nothing sours a creative partnership faster than disputes over rights and royalties. A clear agreement can be the superhero cape that saves the day, ensuring everyone knows what they’re entitled to and preventing any potential villainy down the line. Legal considerations are the thrilling underbelly of comic book creation. It’s the spinach of your creative meal—not exactly the tastiest bite, but oh-so-necessary for the health of your project. You wouldn’t leap into a radioactive spider’s nest without some protection, so why plunge into the world of self-publishing without arming yourself with a bit of legal know-how?

Let’s start with the basics: copyright. That’s your shield, your mighty hammer, your… well, you get the idea. It protects your original work from nefarious villains (read: people who might want to swipe your stuff). The minute your pen lifts off the paper, your creation is protected under copyright law. But don’t just take my word for it; register that masterpiece. It’s like putting a lock on your treasure chest, offering an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

Next up, trademarks. Imagine crafting an iconic character only to find some sneaky imposter peddling knock-off merchandise at a convention. Infuriating, right? That’s where trademarks come in. They protect names, logos, and other brand identifiers from being used without permission. If your comic’s title or hero’s moniker is as distinctive as Batman’s cowl, consider trademarking it.

Now, let’s talk intellectual property rights. This is the meat and potatoes of your creative enterprise, encompassing everything from your scripts to your sketches. When you collaborate (remember that fun we talked about?), it’s essential to clarify who owns what. Contracts aren’t just for the big leagues; they ensure that every member of your super-team knows their rights and responsibilities.

But beware of the siren song of “public domain” characters. Sure, it might seem like a shortcut to use a figure from yesterday, but tread carefully. Not every character that seems old is free to use, and some come with legal strings attached that could tie up your project faster than you can say “infringement.”

Lastly, let’s mention community engagement—because what’s a comic book without its adoring fans, eagerly awaiting each page turn? You’re not just creating stories; you’re building a legion, a gathering, and a veritable fellowship of enthusiasts who’ll champion your work from the dingiest of basements to the grandest of convention halls.

Let’s dive into the bustling world of social media, where hashtags wield the power of Excalibur and a well-timed post can summon followers like a comic book siren’s call. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook are your new best friends, the sidekicks to your superhero endeavor, ready to broadcast your latest creation or behind-the-scenes peek with a mere click. But beware, dear creator, for with great power comes great responsibility. Engage with your followers, respond to their comments, and maybe, just maybe, refrain from posting spoilers unless you fancy a virtual pitchfork mob.

But why stop there? The digital realm is vast, but the tactile world still beckons. Comic conventions, small press expos, and even local comic shops offer fertile ground to sow the seeds of your burgeoning empire. Picture this: you, behind a booth bedecked with your finest wares, exchanging banter and sketches with fans who’ve journeyed far and wide to bask in your artistic aura. Just remember, a smile and a signature can turn a casual browser into a lifelong supporter.

And let’s not forget the forums, those digital roundtables where aficionados dissect the latest story arcs with the fervor of medieval scholars. Sites like Reddit or specialized comic book forums are brimming with potential acolytes eager to debate the merits of your multiverse or the depth of your character development. Dive in, share your insights, and who knows? You might just glean a few pearls of wisdom or plot ideas amidst the chatter. In the end, community engagement is about forging connections, creating a dialogue, and perhaps most importantly, listening. Your fans are your greatest critics, your staunchest supporters, and occasionally, the bearers of fan art that can range from the breathtaking to the bewildering. Embrace them, and they will elevate your work from mere pages to a living, breathing entity in the pantheon of comic book lore.

So go forth, intrepid creator, and engage. In the grand tapestry of the comic book universe, it’s the communities, both online and offline, that keep the pages turning and the stories alive. And remember, when you see your fan base growing, flourishing, and cosplaying as your very own characters, that’s when you’ll know you’ve truly made it.