I don't have any to share just yet, but I figured if anyone DID have any, it would be a good thing to discuss.

So, how do you design a good ad, how much info can you jam in without it being too much?

Anyone have any thoughts on this?

Although my current signature ad doesn't show it, really good art and colours is a good way to catch the eye. Use the colour red, it's the most eye catching colour (I don't like the colour myself, so I don't use it... but still).

Animations are good, but sometimes people tend to avoid those (too overcrowded).


...

A couple of keywords to summarize the comic can help.

I got a lot more hits from a non-animated banner than an animated one. I'd say do something that represents your comic well and is eye catching. Use very few words -- the title and maybe a short phrase.

Colourful images, nice art, female sexuality, bright colours.

I actually took marketing in college and am trying to get a career in that field. I figure either I'll get one and use my creativity there, or I'll use to to market my own stuff. I wish I would sit down and market my stuff, but I get distracted so easily.

Now, here's the thing: A successful ad knows its target market. It has to make promises in things the viewer is interested in. It also has to be shown at the right locations, places where (virtual in this case) the viewer is likely going to be. The 'net is a big, big world and there's something for everyone... you just gotta find your people.

The way to know this is to ask questions:

What's your biggest selling point?
Is it the artwork? Writing? Humour? Originality? Does it actively and viciously try to injure the reader's brain? If you don't know, ask your readers. This is the big promise you make in your advertising. Awesome artwork? Showcase your best stuff. Outrageous humour? Include a fan-favourite joke. Originality? State the premise.

What's your biggest weakness?
Artwork? Writing? Originality? Lack of colour? Too much action? Too little? Lack of updates? Again, ask your readers. If you decide to change your comic in response to this feedback, you'll want to let your more casual readers know -- they might upgrade to fans.

Who are your friends?
What other comics do your readers read, and why? What other comics do YOU read, and why? Any comics your readers browse are potential friends because you have something in common (the audience). Even if you personally hate your reader's choice in comics, if yours is included they're potential allies. Look for the similar traits -- you'll want to advertise them. Also, your reader's choice in comics are excellent starting points for advertising your own and vice versa.

I think it's a good starting point. I know I've gotten myself thinking about my own work and what needs to be done. Any thoughts?

thanks for the pointers smkinoshita! could be very usefull for the future ;D

HPKomic has a fantastic ad... so does OzoneOcean, really. I've been trying to emulate them to get something more sharp.

well i just started on this site but you should check out my comic it is pretty baum!