If you’re a fan of comics, you might have wondered what each segment of a comic strip is called. A comic strip is made up of multiple panels, each with its own unique segment. In this article, we’ll explore the different names for these segments and how they contribute to the overall structure of a comic strip.
Panel
Each individual box or rectangle in a comic strip is called a panel. Panels are used to convey action, dialogue, and visual information.
They can vary in size and shape depending on the layout and style of the comic. Panels are arranged in sequence to tell a story.
Gutter
The space between two panels is called the gutter. It’s where the reader’s mind fills in the missing action that occurs between panels. The gutter is an essential part of storytelling in comics because it allows for movement and time to pass between panels.
Balloon
A balloon is a shape that contains text spoken by one of the characters in the comic strip. Balloons can come in various shapes such as ovals, circles or rectangles, and they are usually connected to the character’s mouth with a tail or pointer.
Speech Balloon
The most common type of balloon is speech balloon which indicates dialogue spoken by one or more characters within the panel. Speech balloons help readers understand what characters are saying and provide context for their actions.
Thought Balloon
Another type of balloon found in comics is thought balloons which indicate what characters are thinking instead of saying aloud. These balloons often have cloud-like shapes with jagged edges to differentiate them from speech balloons.
Caption Box
Caption boxes are rectangles or squares that contain text which provides additional information about what’s happening within the panel. They can be used to describe actions that cannot be conveyed visually or to provide context to dialogue.
Sound Effects
Sound effects are visual representations of sounds within the comic. They can be found in the form of onomatopoeia, such as “bang” or “boom,” or they can be illustrated with images like squiggly lines to indicate motion or vibration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a comic strip is made up of various segments such as panels, gutters, balloons (speech and thought), caption boxes, and sound effects. Each segment plays an important role in conveying the story visually and providing context for the reader. Understanding these segments can help you appreciate and enjoy comics even more.