Does anyone here write graphic novels or comics?

[wryter2000]

The latest thing in romance is what they're calling graphic novels. I've read a couple now, and honestly, they look like extended comic books. Comic books are great, but if something's a comic why not call it that?

In any case, I bought this book...

http://www.fwbookstore.com/product/726/comics-manga-cartooning

The only thing I could find about writing a comic. I have a lot of questions about it, but the basic one involves directing the artist. It seems to me this author tells the writer to do things I'd leave up to the artist. For example, telling the artist how many panels go on a page.

I would think the artist would have the best sense for the size to use for different panels and how they should be situated on the page. I'm not artistic in any way and have 0 experience in creating graphics. There's no earthly way I'd trust myself to make those decisions.

Any guidance on writing for this format greatly appreciated.

[kentauros]

1. I believe MrCoffee once said to me that he does.

Here's his profile if you want to PM him:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=user_profiles&u_id=192949

If not, ask in the Lounge as they talk about comics sometimes, too :)

[Pab Sungenis]

2. How you approach it depends upon your relationship with the artist.

Some writers, like Frank Miller, dictate exactly what goes in each frame of every page. Others, like Peter David, just provide a dialogue and action script.

If you have an artist who you are familiar with and comfortable with, you will probably not need (or want) to give too much specific direction

The best way to learn how to write for the genre is by observing how other, very successful, writers do it. The best examples I can think of off the top of my head are "Watchmen" by Alan Moore, "The Dark Knight Returns" or "Sin City" by Frank Miller, and any of Neil Gaiman's "Sandman" series. Study how they lay out concepts on pages.