If you’re a fan of comic strips, you’ve probably come across the term “three frame comic strip” before. But what exactly is it? In this article, we’re going to explore the world of three frame comics and what makes them so special.
What Is a Three Frame Comic Strip?
A three frame comic strip is a type of comic that consists of three panels or frames. The first panel typically sets up the premise or situation, the second panel presents a conflict or obstacle, and the third panel provides a resolution or punchline.
The History of Three Frame Comics
Three frame comics have been around for decades and are often used in newspaper comics. They are popular because they are concise and can convey a lot of information in just three frames.
One of the most famous examples of a three frame comic strip is “Peanuts” by Charles M. Schulz. Many “Peanuts” strips followed this format, with Charlie Brown often facing some sort of problem that he needed to solve by the end of the strip.
The Benefits of Three Frame Comics
Three frame comics are popular for several reasons. First, they are easy to read and understand – readers can quickly grasp the premise, conflict, and resolution without having to wade through multiple panels.
Second, they lend themselves well to visual humor and punchlines. With only three frames to work with, creators must be creative in how they use each panel to build up to the final punchline.
Finally, three frame comics are great for quick bites of entertainment – perfect for reading during a break at work or while waiting for an appointment.
Examples of Three Frame Comics
Here are some examples of classic three frame comic strips:
- “Calvin and Hobbes” by Bill Watterson
- “Garfield” by Jim Davis
- “The Far Side” by Gary Larson
- “Dilbert” by Scott Adams
How to Create a Three Frame Comic Strip
If you’re interested in creating your own three frame comic strip, here are some tips:
- Start with a premise or situation that you want to explore.
- Think about what kind of conflict or obstacle your character could face.
- Write out a punchline or resolution that ties everything together.
- Create a rough sketch of your three frames and decide how you want to divide up the action.
- Add in dialogue and any necessary visual cues to help convey the story.
- Refine your sketches and add in any necessary details or shading.
The Bottom Line
Three frame comics are a classic format that have been used for decades to tell concise, entertaining stories. Whether you’re a fan of newspaper comics or looking to create your own comic strip, understanding the basics of this format is essential. With its simplicity and focus on visual humor, it’s no wonder why three frame comics continue to be popular today.