One of the coolest things to do at comic con (among the many) is to go to the panels. I stood in line early for Legend of the Seeker (for my personal viewing) when I stumbled into a panel about breaking into the comic book industry. Many people crash the panel before the one they really want to see to ensure entry, but this was actually pretty interesting.

First of all, like many jobs in the entertainment industry, there is no one way in. C.B. Cebulski quoted his friend when he said, “it’s like breaking out of prison. Once one escape route is found, it’s closed off and the rest of the inmates have to find their own way out,” or in this case, “in!”

These were a handful of the ideas that were mentioned at the panel, but everyone had their own story as to how they got in. The ideas below are a good starting point:

• Send your work to your target company.
• Internships.
• Look for ads.
• Work with a smaller comic first then build from there.
• Go to cons…. frequently.
• Get to know your industry. It’s not who you know… it’s who you know who remembers you!
• Create your own story/artwork. Don’t split the work. You’ll run the risk of getting your artist the job instead of you.

I noticed that the topic of writing was a major headliner. It’s also said to be the hardest position to get into. Some advice included:

• Write no more than 16 words per bubble so as not to cover the artwork.
• You must be established before you can pitch yourself.
• Don’t re-write an entire comic based on your favorite hero… instead, write on their current situation.
• You must catch the readers’ attention within the 1st 2 pages.
• When you draw remember, no nudity!

This was a quick panel that was loaded with information. I provided bullet points to give it to you straight. If you want to break into the comic world… best advice I can give… be humble. Don’t think you’re amazing because there are a lot of amazing artists/writers out there.

Click here for Marvel job opportunities!! There are numerous comic opportunities online. If you’re serious, do your research!