Graphic Novel Terms

Background

The part of the panel farthest from the viewer

Caption

These are boxes containing a variety of text elements. They can add narration or describe the physical setting or the scene.

Compostition

The organization, distribution, balance, and general relationship of stationary objects and figures, as well as of light, shade, line, and color, within the frame. 

Figures

Faces can be portrayed in different ways. Some depict an actual person; others can represent an idea, or group of people. 

Foreground

The part of the panel closest to the viewer.

Frame

The lines and borders that contain the panels.

Gutter

The space between framed panels. 

Panel

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

Speech Balloon

These enclose dialogue that comes from a specific speaker’s mouth. These can show external dialogue, or internal thoughts (Thought Balloons: usually represented by circles that lead to the balloon)

Separate the __ and __

Form, content

Animated film is a…

Visual art in sequence.

Final definition of comics

Juxtaposed Pictoral Images in Deliberate Sequence

An image used to represent a person, place, or thing.

Icon

Closure

Noticing and understanding smaller parts to understand the whole/big picture.