Graphic designers in graphic novels can be illustrators. They are responsible for drawing the actual scenes and images that tell the story. Often, they need to have a strong sense of composition and be able to bring the script to life visually. Additionally, some graphic designers may take on the role of cover designer. The cover is the first thing readers see, so they have to create an eye - catching design that represents the essence of the graphic novel.
You need to have a good sense of visual aesthetics and be familiar with various design software. Also, understanding the themes and styles of different novels is crucial.
In making a graphic novel, the main jobs include writing. A good writer can create an engaging plot. Next is the art side. The penciller sketches out the initial drawings. After that, the inker goes over the pencilled work to make the lines more defined. As I said before, the colorist and letterer have their own important tasks. And don't forget the publisher who is responsible for getting the graphic novel out to the public.
You can start by checking out specialized job boards for graphic design and illustration. Many of these list freelance opportunities for graphic novels. Also, follow relevant companies and studios on social media as they often post job openings.
It was common to do part-time proofreading work on the Internet, especially on some online education platforms. These platforms allow individuals or institutions to set up their own courses and provide online teaching and tutoring services. In this case, students can find part-time proofreading opportunities on the platform to support themselves or others. Some common part-time proofreading platforms include Coursera, edX, Udemy, and so on.
Attention to detail is crucial. In a graphic novel, every little thing matters, from the details in a character's costume to the background scenery. They also need to be proficient in using digital design tools such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. These tools help them create and edit their designs more efficiently. Moreover, they should be able to adapt to different art styles as different graphic novels may require different visual aesthetics.
There was a case where a designer worked on a logo for a company. After presenting the final design, which the client had approved throughout the process, the client used the logo for a while and then sued the designer, claiming it was too similar to another logo. The designer had to go through a lot of legal hassle and potential damage to their reputation.