Beginners Glossary of Graphic Novel Terms

aspect-to-aspect

Provides varying perspectives of the same scene/action over multiple panels.

background

The parts of a scene situated in the rear (behind the foreground),

bleed

When an image extends to or beyond the edge of a page.

caption

When words appear in a box separate from the rest of the panel or the page. Usually information or directives from an unseen narrator.

cartoon

An unrealistic representation (icon) of a person.

close-up

The angle that zooms into an element for closer view.

composition

The arrangement or placement of visual elements in a panel or work of

art.
contrast

The arrangement of opposite elements to create visual interest.

dialogue

Conversations between characters.

figure

A reference or depiction of the human body.

foreground

The image closest to the viewer.

frame

The line bordering the panel.

graphic weight

The heaviness or intensity of a line or block of shading for visual focus. The heavier the graphic weight, the greater the visual focus, making it more salient on the page.

gutter

The space between panels.

juxtaposition

The placement of two opposing or unrelated images/ideas next to each other for some effect.

layout

The configuration of all the elements on the page into an arrangement that tells the narrative.

medium

The material used in the creation of the artwork.

midground

The point between the foreground and the background.

non-sequitur

Jumps from one moment or place to another, seemingly abruptly or unrelated.

panel

A distinct segment of the comic, containing a combination of image and text in endless variety.

scene-to-scene

A jump in time or place separated only by the gutter.

spatial

arrangement

speech balloon

A unit containing dialogue.

special effects

lettering

splash page

When a panel consists of an entire page.

spread

An image that spans more than one page.

text

You already know what this is! (<--an example of text)

tier

A single row of panels.

thought bubble

A unit containing internal speech or thinking.

voice over

When the narrator speaks directly to the audience.