LOOKING FOR A COACH IN COMICS? Personalized Comics Portfolio, Project, and Career Mentoring
If you’ve ever sent me a submission -- as Editor-in-Chief of Top Shelf Productions -- you hopefully received a polite and encouraging response (as I always try to get back to everyone). But it may have been frustrating that I wasn’t able to go into a lot of detail about what the particular strengths of your work were, and what areas I had constructive suggestions. Or, maybe you’ve had an idea for a comic, or written or drawn something, but didn’t know if it was any good or what to do with it.
I often visit Universities to speak and answer questions about the business of comics and to also give one-on-one portfolio/project reviews, but with in-person visits so limited these days due to the pandemic, I find myself with a bit of extra time on my hands. So, I thought I might try and offer an after-hours/weekend service to provide personalized advice in the following areas, tailored to your needs:
-- A detailed portfolio/project review ... along with answering the ins-and-outs of:-- How to make your submission more attractive to publishers-- What makes the medium of comics unique & the key elements of good storytelling-- Self-publishing/marketing your work through social media, press, crowdfunding, and conventions-- How money is made in the business/financial planning-- Publishing contracts and agents-- Hollywood exploitation, management, and contracts-- Careers in comics (creative and business)
Basically, to go into depth on where you are creatively, and to answer any long-standing questions you might have about the industry or what you might do next. Practically speaking, it would start as a one-on-one, one-hour, $99* (PayPal or Venmo) consultation via Zoom (or phone) to potentially aid you in furthering your goals. But trust me, we can cover a lot of ground in an hour. Please note – by signing up for my advice you are acknowledging that (i) the advice that I provide is solely my own as an individual comics enthusiast and not as an employee of Top Shelf Productions or IDW Publishing (“TS/IDW”), (ii) any opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views or opinions of TS/IDW, (iii) I am not your lawyer, agent or manager, nor would I be if you were to ever present your materials to TS/IDW, and (iv) TS/IDW may have access to and/or may create or may have already created materials and ideas which may be similar or identical to your materials and you would not be entitled to any payment because of the use by TS/IDW of any such similar or identical material.
If you’re interested, hit me up via email (chrisstaros@gmail.com), and we’ll set something up. Let’s get your projects and career moving in the right direction! Your friend thru comics,Chris *10-20 pages of comics max (a full graphic novel or a graphic novel script would need to be quoted separately, but would likely be $199 and $249, respectively). Prices and availability subject to change based on evaluation of requirements and circumstances.
I often visit Universities to speak and answer questions about the business of comics and to also give one-on-one portfolio/project reviews, but with in-person visits so limited these days due to the pandemic, I find myself with a bit of extra time on my hands. So, I thought I might try and offer an after-hours/weekend service to provide personalized advice in the following areas, tailored to your needs:
-- A detailed portfolio/project review ... along with answering the ins-and-outs of:-- How to make your submission more attractive to publishers-- What makes the medium of comics unique & the key elements of good storytelling-- Self-publishing/marketing your work through social media, press, crowdfunding, and conventions-- How money is made in the business/financial planning-- Publishing contracts and agents-- Hollywood exploitation, management, and contracts-- Careers in comics (creative and business)
Basically, to go into depth on where you are creatively, and to answer any long-standing questions you might have about the industry or what you might do next. Practically speaking, it would start as a one-on-one, one-hour, $99* (PayPal or Venmo) consultation via Zoom (or phone) to potentially aid you in furthering your goals. But trust me, we can cover a lot of ground in an hour. Please note – by signing up for my advice you are acknowledging that (i) the advice that I provide is solely my own as an individual comics enthusiast and not as an employee of Top Shelf Productions or IDW Publishing (“TS/IDW”), (ii) any opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views or opinions of TS/IDW, (iii) I am not your lawyer, agent or manager, nor would I be if you were to ever present your materials to TS/IDW, and (iv) TS/IDW may have access to and/or may create or may have already created materials and ideas which may be similar or identical to your materials and you would not be entitled to any payment because of the use by TS/IDW of any such similar or identical material.
If you’re interested, hit me up via email (chrisstaros@gmail.com), and we’ll set something up. Let’s get your projects and career moving in the right direction! Your friend thru comics,Chris *10-20 pages of comics max (a full graphic novel or a graphic novel script would need to be quoted separately, but would likely be $199 and $249, respectively). Prices and availability subject to change based on evaluation of requirements and circumstances.
JUN/JUL SOLD OUT NOW BOOKING AUG/SEP * 90+ SESSIONS BOOKED SINCE MAY 2021 LAUNCH (WITH 35+ COMPLETED) HERE'S WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING:
“Thank you for your time, Chris. That was definitely the most fulfilling Zoom conversation that I’ve had in over a year! I truly appreciated the feedback & advice, and have already begun implementing the story changes we discussed. I’ll reach back out in a month or so to look into scheduling another session.” -- Joe Khachadourian
"Thanks again for taking the time to meet with me. Besides gaining a better understanding of the comic book publishing world, I enjoyed getting to know you as a person. You have a wealth of knowledge that's truly invaluable and you're passionate about what you do. It inspired me even more to continue my pursuit of bringing my story to life and finally completed this series." -- Eli Thomas
"I just wanted to take a quick moment to thank you for your time and advice yesterday. It is difficult to get honest feedback on comic book work and especially from someone that knows what they are talking about. I soaked up everything we discussed yesterday and am already working to apply it to my work." -- Jaired Messing
"I really appreciate you taking the time to go through my work and provide me with some actionable next steps. Your x-ray vision of my work was really helpful and insightful!" -- Chris Naish
“I heartily endorse this product! Chris spent the better part of 2 hours with me, giving me concrete next steps for my comic and career. It’s well worth the money!” -- Marvelous Patric
"Thank you again for our consultation last evening. Your thoughts and advice were encouraging, and I learned quite a lot more about the industry." -- Eric Sailer "Thanks so much for all of your input. Your critique was very helpful to me, as was your encouragement. I look forward to speaking to you soon, and I'm working on the [revised] thumbnails now." -- Joseph Cotsirilos
“Looking to break into comics or to improve as a writer or artist? Chris Staros was instrumental in my development as a creator and now he is offering a great program to up and coming creators. Highly recommended!” – Jeff Lemire
“If there's one guy who knows this industry inside and out - it's Chris!” -- Matt Kindt
“What a fantastic idea! From someone whose sense of humor, intelligence, perception, and background in the business is solid gold… I’d send people to you in a heartbeat.” -- Jennifer Hayden
“Check this out! My brilliant editor, Chris Staros, is available to mentor aspiring comic book authors and illustrators. I've benefitted so greatly from his guidance. I highly, highly recommend.” -- Kimberly Dwinell
“Want to make comics? Learn from the person who gave me my first job in the industry and published my first book. Chris know the business, he knows editing, and he knows story.” -- Robert Venditti
“I cannot sing the praises of @chrisstaros enough in his help to me over the years. Now you too get to mainline his knowledge...” -- Julian Hanshaw
“As someone who's benefitted enormously from Chris' advice over the past 25 years, I can honestly say there is no one better placed to provide mentoring for your comics career. You'd be daft not to!” -- Gary Spencer Millidge
“My friend & publisher Chris Staros is an excellent mentor. He was invaluable guiding my career in the early days, and I still turn to him for advice often.” -- James Kochalka
“This is amazing! If you’re an aspiring comic book artist, check this out! Chris is one of the best minds in the business. As well as being a wonderful human being!” -- Shawn Crystal
“Hey, if you’re looking to break into comics, or if you just want to up your game, Staros is one of the best people in comics, and is a publishing MACHINE — hit him up, what a great idea, Chris. Put me in, Coach!” -- Dirk Wood
“This is a such a great idea. You're like the Jedi master of comics!” -- Paige Braddock
“Chris has helped me with all my books! Happy to plug.” -- Chris Gooch
“When I started writing comics, one of my earliest mentors was @chrisstaros of @topshelfcomix. He provided advice, contacts, and critiques. Now, he's sharing his experience and understanding. Check out his new site if you needs a starting point.” -- Kurt A.
“Chris does some great stuff as EIC at @topshelfcomix; you’d do well to avail yourself of his wisdom.” -- Ron Hogan
“Very cool service being offered here from a guy who knows what’s what. The price is a steal, honestly.” -- Jason Green
“I can't think of someone more qualified!” -- Chuck Suffel
“Artists looking to break into the comics space can learn a lot from Chris who's one of the most knowledgeable and enthusiastic pros in the biz...” –- Mighty Joe Nolan
“You could do a lot worse than this font of long-time comic industry knowledge if you're looking for guidance or feedback.” -- Johanna Draper Carlson
“Hey! Chris Staros is dishing out wisdom! Chris knows his stuff and this looks like an excellent chance to get some individual advice.” -- Dan Berry
“Chris knows his stuff.” -- Alan J. Porter
“I personally can't think of a better person to learn from then Chris. I definitely will check this out.” -- William Lange
“You could do a lot worse in terms of mentors! Good luck Chris!” -- Box Brown
“Wow! What a great idea and opportunity for aspiring comic book creators!” -- Sally-Anne Hickman
“Love it. Well done.” -- Dave Cooper
“What kind of fool WOULDN'T sign up for this!???” -- Chris Duffy
“I compliment your work. This complements it.” -- Richard Pachter
“Excellent idea.” -- William Schanes
“I can't think of a better person to host something like this!” -- Jim Valentino
“Amazing! Good luck with it all, Chris. You’re gonna rock it.” -- Jimmy Aquino
“A more perfect mentor I could not imagine!” -- Steve Rotterdam
“My publisher US provides support and coaching service for BD project presentation. Chris knows how to do it! Also, he's super sweet! If you're looking for this kind of help presenting a file to an American publisher, don't hesitate!” -- Axelle Lenoir
“Chris is one of the nicest and smartest people in comics and has been several times around the block. Sign up!” -- Richard Starkings “You cannot go wrong with Chris...” -- Shane Chebsey
"Thank you again for our consultation last evening. Your thoughts and advice were encouraging, and I learned quite a lot more about the industry." -- Eric Sailer "Thanks so much for all of your input. Your critique was very helpful to me, as was your encouragement. I look forward to speaking to you soon, and I'm working on the [revised] thumbnails now." -- Joseph Cotsirilos
“Looking to break into comics or to improve as a writer or artist? Chris Staros was instrumental in my development as a creator and now he is offering a great program to up and coming creators. Highly recommended!” – Jeff Lemire
“If there's one guy who knows this industry inside and out - it's Chris!” -- Matt Kindt
“What a fantastic idea! From someone whose sense of humor, intelligence, perception, and background in the business is solid gold… I’d send people to you in a heartbeat.” -- Jennifer Hayden
“Check this out! My brilliant editor, Chris Staros, is available to mentor aspiring comic book authors and illustrators. I've benefitted so greatly from his guidance. I highly, highly recommend.” -- Kimberly Dwinell
“Want to make comics? Learn from the person who gave me my first job in the industry and published my first book. Chris know the business, he knows editing, and he knows story.” -- Robert Venditti
“I cannot sing the praises of @chrisstaros enough in his help to me over the years. Now you too get to mainline his knowledge...” -- Julian Hanshaw
“As someone who's benefitted enormously from Chris' advice over the past 25 years, I can honestly say there is no one better placed to provide mentoring for your comics career. You'd be daft not to!” -- Gary Spencer Millidge
“My friend & publisher Chris Staros is an excellent mentor. He was invaluable guiding my career in the early days, and I still turn to him for advice often.” -- James Kochalka
“This is amazing! If you’re an aspiring comic book artist, check this out! Chris is one of the best minds in the business. As well as being a wonderful human being!” -- Shawn Crystal
“Hey, if you’re looking to break into comics, or if you just want to up your game, Staros is one of the best people in comics, and is a publishing MACHINE — hit him up, what a great idea, Chris. Put me in, Coach!” -- Dirk Wood
“This is a such a great idea. You're like the Jedi master of comics!” -- Paige Braddock
“Chris has helped me with all my books! Happy to plug.” -- Chris Gooch
“When I started writing comics, one of my earliest mentors was @chrisstaros of @topshelfcomix. He provided advice, contacts, and critiques. Now, he's sharing his experience and understanding. Check out his new site if you needs a starting point.” -- Kurt A.
“Chris does some great stuff as EIC at @topshelfcomix; you’d do well to avail yourself of his wisdom.” -- Ron Hogan
“Very cool service being offered here from a guy who knows what’s what. The price is a steal, honestly.” -- Jason Green
“I can't think of someone more qualified!” -- Chuck Suffel
“Artists looking to break into the comics space can learn a lot from Chris who's one of the most knowledgeable and enthusiastic pros in the biz...” –- Mighty Joe Nolan
“You could do a lot worse than this font of long-time comic industry knowledge if you're looking for guidance or feedback.” -- Johanna Draper Carlson
“Hey! Chris Staros is dishing out wisdom! Chris knows his stuff and this looks like an excellent chance to get some individual advice.” -- Dan Berry
“Chris knows his stuff.” -- Alan J. Porter
“I personally can't think of a better person to learn from then Chris. I definitely will check this out.” -- William Lange
“You could do a lot worse in terms of mentors! Good luck Chris!” -- Box Brown
“Wow! What a great idea and opportunity for aspiring comic book creators!” -- Sally-Anne Hickman
“Love it. Well done.” -- Dave Cooper
“What kind of fool WOULDN'T sign up for this!???” -- Chris Duffy
“I compliment your work. This complements it.” -- Richard Pachter
“Excellent idea.” -- William Schanes
“I can't think of a better person to host something like this!” -- Jim Valentino
“Amazing! Good luck with it all, Chris. You’re gonna rock it.” -- Jimmy Aquino
“A more perfect mentor I could not imagine!” -- Steve Rotterdam
“My publisher US provides support and coaching service for BD project presentation. Chris knows how to do it! Also, he's super sweet! If you're looking for this kind of help presenting a file to an American publisher, don't hesitate!” -- Axelle Lenoir
“Chris is one of the nicest and smartest people in comics and has been several times around the block. Sign up!” -- Richard Starkings “You cannot go wrong with Chris...” -- Shane Chebsey
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