📝This archived post is originally from my old comics focused Wordpress blog from 2011-2019. That site was a space to publicly commit to learning the art and craft of cartooning and self-publishing. These posts are full of a naive enthusiasm that though at times embarrassing, I'm proud of. I hope you find them useful in some way.❤️

A while back, Gene Fama put together some essays online that explore the process of effective comics production. I found this courtesy of Ed Piskor’s blog. The process section that I found particularly interesting was on coloring. I would certainly argue that unless making art comix or anything avant garde as a commercial illustrator, your best bet is to respect the principles that Fama puts forward.

Truth betold, No one wants to see the Incal recolored nor does it ever need to be. (Before - After)

Here are some morsels to pique your interest.

_Computers are wonderful. They're especially good at reducing the costs that prevent entry into fields of endeavor. People who can't afford rent on a comic shop can now open an online store with very little overhead. People who can't handle Dr. Martin dyes can color and "undo" their mistakes with a click of the mouse. The only problem is that the people with the discipline to master Dr. Martin dyes are more likely to be those with the discipline to use good taste._

And another:

_If you look at Herge´s coloring in _Tintin _it'll look strong and primary, but if you actually try to match his colors you'll find they're quite pastel. Similarly, good painters almost never use colors directly from the tube with no mixing. Good coloring is often about finding a shade just outside the primary shade._