Composition
The arrangement of visual elements in and image
Goal:
To emphasize the subject/mood/action of an image and make it both easily understood and aesthetically pleasing to the viewer.
Composition Includes:
Color, shape, line, contrast, proportion, positioning, cropping, viewpoint, rhythm, perspective, geometry.
*Basically it includes everything in an image that's why it's tough to master, you have to keep track of a bunch of stuff.
Below are sample layout styles
When laying out the content for a panel make sure your are aware of your audiences reading style. In western culture we are trained to read L-R top to bottom, zig zagging down the page.
Comics have a language that conveys how language is delivered. Note the speech bubbles below, each has a
different purpose.
Note that when you compose your picture keep in mind that you need to leave space for the talk bubbles. See below
When creating your comic, simple props or costumes can also help to convey a location and a time and place along with the role that the character plays. This is all content that can help to say more without having to write about it.
Often by using some of the principals of design you can create a box of content with out an actual box. You can also layer/float boxes to create depth yet still keep the design balanced.
Timing is an important thing to keep in mind, in the panel below Will Eisner, the father of the American graphic novel shows that if you don't allow a moment or action to breathe you could miss out on a dramatic moment.
Color Palette, below are sample color pallets with comic panels. I encourage you to make your own custom color palate. Use a photo or painting to create a look for your project that is harmonious.