The seismic shifts in comic book distribution have created two schools of thought on the future of comics. One is more dystopian.
The other is more optimistic. We have insight into both perspectives as well as insight on how much it costs to create a comic, new technology for creators, and a sobering story about how even the well-known creators in the industry can get burned.
Distribution
Comic Stores Brace for a Shakeup
(The Hollywood Reporter)
If Diamond goes under, so could a significant portion of the comic book industry. Not only is Diamond the contractually exclusive comic book distributor for some of comics’ largest publishers, it’s the sole distributor of a number of smaller independent publishers as well. The collapse of such a distributor could prove a death blow to many, especially if it owes money to publishers if it goes under.
Penguin Random House Could Expand the Market for Comics
(ICV2)
Instead of going extinct in a post-Diamond world, some of this material could find new readers, while providing a profitable new source of content for independent booksellers. When you get a comics and book market that is segmented by content and audience, not by format, lots of great things become possible.
Financing
How Much Does it Cost to Make a Comic?
(Horowitz Writes)
Each of the individual components of making a comic book can be quite expensive, but combined together it can be astronomical. That’s why you want to make sure to budget correctly for this.
Freelance Comic Creators
The Creator of the Winter Soldier Speaks Out Against Marvel
(Comics Beat)
“There is a corporate mentality. Right now someone inside Marvel publishing somewhere is watching this and laughing that I think I got ripped off. I know for a fact because I’ve watched them be that way about other people in person.”
Technology
A New Convention App for Comic Creators
(StartLand)
"A comic creator is developing an app that would notify vendors of conventions and give them the opportunity to book such events from the palms of their hands. It is also expected to allow vendors to track all their expenses and calculate how much they need to sell in order to make a profit."
Madefire Shuts Down, Leaving Many Digital Comics Apps in Limbo
(ComicsBeat)
Digital comics platforms have tried to play the start-up-to-acquisition game a few times, but so far readers have spoken with their wallets and eyeballs. They prefer free comics, print comics, and Amazon.
Have fun with your comic
Gamal
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