How to Assemble a Webcomics Press Kit

Even though webcomics are considered a non-traditional art form, it doesn't hurt to have a traditionally styled information packet handy for the occasional media interest--traditional or otherwise. Putting together a press kit or promotional packet is good practice for learning how to talk about what you do and why you do it. On the Internet, fame came be fleeting, and when those 15 minutes come to call, having the information readily available can capitalize and extend that moment into a career. Here are some tips for compiling an attention-grabbing press kit.

Things You'll Need

• Head shots
• Samples of your work
• Word processing program
• Application that will save in .pdf format
• Website to host files
• Burnable discs
• Attractive packaging (optional)

Instructions

1. Get a decent head shot taken. Unless you are incredibly skilled with a camera, this is not something to do on your own; find a good photography studio and ask for some basic, business-like poses. While you can show some personality-- we are artists after all-- make sure to have at least one picture taken without props, overt posing or too much makeup. Candid or "fun" shots that apply to your work can also be included, but sparingly.

2. Choose several samples of your work, past and present, that exemplify your skills. Unless you were a child prodigy those 3rd grade self-portraits can stay in the box in the closet. Your selections should show a variety of styles if you are versatile and concentrate on your biggest "a ha!" moments thus far. Continually update your selections as your work improves and grows. Keep the selection at 5 to 7 pieces, including any that have won awards.

3. Include a brief biographical sketch that touches on your family situation, summarizes your education if it applies to your artistic pursuits or is otherwise novel and your current career (professional or not) in comics. Including some of your influences is a good idea, if you can name them, as it can give an interested reporter a base of reference.

4. Write about your milestones and achievements in the third person, as if you were a publicist writing about a client. Styling these as a press release, even if the events are already passed, puts them into an easily recognized and disseminated format. Ensure your contact information is correct and easy to find regardless of the format you choose.

5. Make this kit available in a variety of formats. Digital files available from your website will allow press to easily access your information with zero lag between request and fulfillment. Have physical copies on hand during conventions and other events ready to hand out. Burned discs in a case or sleeve won't take up too much space and are easily produced. A slicker presentation in a folder (and there are a lot of options out there for packaging) will take up slightly more space, but may represent your work more completely.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to track who accesses the information from your website, protect the link behind an email sign-up form.