[Recommended Read] Comic Editing
Source: https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Manga/Bakuman
By: Peggy Sue Wood | @pswediting
Comic editing and book editing are different in several ways. Comics include layout and visual elements; there are scripts like movies and pacing to consider; often times the work is collaborative with different writers, artists, colorists, etc.; and even a difference in how marketing targets the audiences of the medium.
However, editing involves more than just content. It also involves project management, people skills, and sometimes even a secondary language. As someone who has thought of entering this field before and been granted the opportunity of an internship with DC Entertainment to explore that interest, here are some of the best reading materials to review when you consider getting into this field:
“THE JOB OF THE COMIC BOOK EDITOR” by Mark Waid – Mark Waid is one of the more prolific creators in the Westren comic space. He’s not alone, but his blog and particularly the blog post I’ve shared here, are what was recommended to me when I was interning at DC. Much of what he says regards editorial philosophy. Editorial philosophy is an abstract concept, but one that also plays a significant role in the comic creation process. If you want to be in this industry, start here and work your way through the other content on the blog. (Frankly, I would consider the blog an industry standard.)
“EDITING KNOWHOW Comics and Graphic Novels” by Catriona Tippin – This article discusses the content side of editing to some degree and is great for understanding some of the different roles in the editorial side of the comic industry.
“How To Become a Manga Editor” by Brian Ashcraft – This is a short read, but touches on the important aspects of localization, language skills for manga in a US market, and the necessity to read a lot (a consistent recommendation in this field).
“What Is Comic Book Editing?” by Stephanie Cooke – This piece talks about editing comics from a freelancer’s perspective and is good at addressing project needs.
