How does somebody become a comic book editor?

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losttoy
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How does somebody become a comic book editor?

Post by losttoy »

I have been obsessed with comics as long as I remember. I have tried my hand at illustrating, writing, coloring and even self-publishing. I founded two artists groups and participated in many comic forums. However with my various explorations into the comic world, I still try to find my place in this industry.

Last night, I was laying in bed not sleeping and I started to think that all of these comics have editors. Some of them are for proofreading while others take a more active role. I thought, while I am a good artist/writer, I do not have the experience or the discipline to act at a professional level. But one thing I do know is I very much understand comics (maybe not as much Scott McCloud, but...). An editor could be a good position for me I thought, or at least worth a try.

So while there are hundreds of how-to draw and break into comics for artists, writers, letterers, colorist and so on, there have not been anything I could find on how one becomes an editor at an actual comic company.

So how does somebody "break-in" as a comic book editor?
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William G
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Post by William G »

That's an interesting question. I always assumed that they were former artists and writers.
gazorenzoku
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Post by gazorenzoku »

i imagine if you've written in other media, you could have a shot at being an editor even if you haven't written for comics...?
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Re: How does somebody become a comic book editor?

Post by Rip Tanion »

losttoy wrote:So how does somebody "break-in" as a comic book editor?
One of the teachers I had at SVA, who was a veteran of the comic book biz, would have answered that question "Remove your brain, cut out your heart, and poke out your eyes."

Of course, I had a few other teachers who actually were, at one time or another, editors at DC, Marvel, and a couple other major houses. From what I observed in them, the main character traits you need for the job are stubborness, opinionatedness, and a belief that the artists working under you are incompetent dopes.
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gazorenzoku
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Re: How does somebody become a comic book editor?

Post by gazorenzoku »

wow. that's a really intense post.
Rip Tanion wrote:"Remove your brain, cut out your heart, and poke out your eyes."
Yeah! Sign me UP!!!
Rip Tanion wrote:the main character traits you need for the job are stubborness, opinionatedness, and a belief that the artists working under you are incompetent dopes.
once again, YES! I'm there already!!! Where do I sign?
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Post by deadmouse »

I would imagine like many other industries an editor isn't born but made.
Most editors I would believe start at a publisher at the bottom as an intern,
receptionist, gopher etc. and keep there ears and eyes open looking and asking
for more experience slowly graduating higher to there desired position.
The same method can be applied to producers for animation.
Be eager but not annoying, nobody help you if you keep your nose up
their ass looking for their job.
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