Graphic Novels

caption

boxes containing a variety of text elements, including scene, setting, description, and passage of time

extreme close up

this type of panel allows the reader to understand what the character is thinking based on detailed visual cues and facial expressions

frame

the lines and borders that contain the panels

bleed

an image that extends to and/or beyond the edge of the page or frame

gutter

the space between framed panels, this is where time passes

extreme longshot

used to show full landscape

motion lines

shows action, force, speed, or direction

close up

tightly frames a person or an object, it is often used to show a character's reaction or feelings

panel

contains a picture that puts forth an idea, often depicts a single moment in time

splashpage

one panel that takes up an entire page

longshot

it typically shows an entire character, the setting and the character's place in the setting

layout

how panels are arraged on a page

sound effects

words that imitate the sound they make

thought balloon

a cloud shape containing a character's inner dialogue

speechballoon

an oval or circular shape that encloses dialogue with an arrow indicating which character is speaking

coloration

often used to set the mood for a page or panel or to highlight characters and objects