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How do you create your panel compositions?

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Howdy everyone!

I've been wanting to make my panel compositions for my comics a little more interesting, since I feel like they're getting a bit stale and repetitive. So I wanted to ask around to get some inspiration!

How do y'all usually go about creating panels? o: Is there a specific method you use for framing? Any inspirations you recommend checking out or tips you have? I think it'd be a fun thing to discuss while learning a new thing or two! :3

Sorry if this is phrased confusingly haha.
Sep 29, 2024 5:37 pm
  • My process:

    Is it boring? If yes, how can I make it not boring? repeat.

    It's not very sophisticated but it works for me.

    There is also this classic guide for inspiration: https://inked-dreams.com/2021/09/14/wally-woods-22-panels-with-examples/
    Sep 30, 2024 5:47 pm
  • reply to Dogssie
    LOL plain and simple, I like it! Maybe I oughta start taking steps back and examining my pages n stuff :3

    And that inked-dreams site is SUCH a good resource, thank you so much!!! Bookmarking this immediately
    Oct 01, 2024 7:05 pm
  • reply to Dogssie
    Thanks Dogssie! I've seen Wally Wood's 22 Panels before, but the additional examples and references helped add context that can be applied to my art. Much appreciated!
    Jun 04, 2025 8:22 pm
  • For me I do what the art tells me too for framing? Sometimes it's super boring rectangles, sometimes it's crazy arcs and angles to lead the eye through a scene... I've even done things to look like broken glass... Very rarely do I preplan the framing? So I get the art drawn and positioned and then figure out the paneling to ensure art/dialogue fits like I want.
    Oct 03, 2024 7:26 pm
  • reply to Darwin
    oh thats a fun way to do it!! usually my process is to write the script and then do thumbnails by figuring out panelling first. maybe i oughta give this a shot, thank you!
    Oct 06, 2024 7:36 am
  • One resource that has helped me a lot is the book “Film directing shot by shot” written by Steven D. Katz. It outlines everything you need to know about creating visually engaging narratives in film. I have found that many of the rules of cinema apply to comics as well.
    Dec 09, 2024 12:43 pm