Most people know what a comic book writer does but few people know just how much money they make. While most people may assume that comics are simply for children, it is often times the case that adults turn to comic books for entertainment. In fact, according to Statista, 62.2 million American adults read comics every month. And with more than 75 million comic books sold each year, it’s easy to see why.
While most people may know that comic books are generally considered to be low-budget ventures (due to the fact that they are often published on a shoestring budget), it still shocks many that comic books can be so lucrative. After all, isn’t the whole point of a comic book to simply entertain the reader? While there are certainly plenty of exceptions, the fact remains that most comic book writers can’t rely on one hit game to finance their entire career. Instead, they need to find and cultivate a steady stream of income in order to even make a decent living.
The Economics of Comic Books
Thanks to the explosive popularity of video games, film, and comic books, the economics of entertainment have changed. As the industry consolidates, digital distribution, and creator-owned comics, the game has shifted from brick and mortar stores to the web and digital marketplaces. As a result, there has been a significant rise in independent contractors and digital specialists who are employed directly by the publishers or film studios. This trend, coupled with the fact that many comic book creators are now working remotely, means that more opportunities exist for freelancers. Despite this, it’s still rare for a comic book creator to make a full-time living from their art.
If you’re curious about the financials behind the comic book industry, then check out this informative graphic from ICv2. It breaks down the industry by revenue, breaks down the numbers, and provides some insight into the state of the comic book industry.
The Rise of the Self-Published Comic Book
Thanks to the rise of self-publishing, it is now possible for aspiring writers and artists to bypass traditional publishing houses and established comic book companies in order to get their work out to the community. While this may initially sound like it would be impossible to succeed as a freelance writer or artist without the support of a major corporation, the fact remains that many successful indie comics were once considered minicomics. And just like any industry, the rules can always be amended to fit the changing needs and interests of the audience. The more things change, the more they stay the same.
What is a Comic Book Writer?
Comic book writers are individuals who create content for comic books. This can include anything from the actual writing to the artwork. Depending on the preference of the company, the creator may also be responsible for assembling the book, editing it, and sometimes even designing covers.
Since traditional comic book companies are moving toward an all-digital production process, many of these responsibilities are being passed along to freelance writers and artists. As a result, many comic book writers are now capable of taking on a variety of tasks, ranging from the scripting of an entire book to the rough art draft. Although there is significant room for growth, the ability to write, edit, and design is a valuable skill in today’s market.
The Advantages of Freelancing
Thanks to the internet, the ability to freelance has never been easier. With platforms like Upwork, there are thousands of opportunities for writers and artists to connect with potential customers. Working remotely allows for more flexibility and reduces the need to be tied to one location, enabling the freelancer to take on more assignments and increase their earnings. What’s not to like?
Where Do I Start?
If you’re interested in breaking into the comic book industry, then the first step is to simply start somewhere. You don’t need to have any previous experience to begin freelancing, as there are plenty of opportunities for writers and artists willing to learn on the job. Once you’ve mastered the basics, presented yourself to potential clients, and started making a little bit of money, then you can move on to the more advanced stages of your career. At that point, you’ll have a good idea of what your earnings can be and how much work you can reasonably expect to do. Don’t be afraid to ask for more assignments as you demonstrate your value.