Speed Lines
Speed lines are a visual technique used in manga (Japanese comics) and anime to show movement and create dynamic action in still images. They're basically lines drawn around or behind characters or objects to give the feeling of speed, motion, or emotional impact. This is one of the most common techniques manga artists use to make their artwork more exciting and engaging. When you see these in a portfolio or job description, it means the artist knows how to make static drawings feel more alive and energetic.
Examples in Resumes
Created dynamic action scenes using Speed Lines and motion effects in 20+ manga pages
Trained junior artists in proper application of Speed Lines and Action Lines for maximum impact
Developed digital brushes for efficient Motion Lines and Speed Lines creation in manga panels
Typical job title: "Manga Artists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Manga Artists
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you decide when and how to use speed lines in a manga page to maximum effect?
Expected Answer: A senior artist should explain how they analyze page composition, consider reading flow, and balance speed lines with other elements to create impact without overwhelming the artwork. They should mention experience in training others in these techniques.
Q: How do you adapt speed line techniques for different art styles and genres?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of how speed lines vary between action, romance, and comedy manga, and how to adjust their style to match different artistic directions while maintaining effectiveness.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What tools and techniques do you use to create speed lines efficiently?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe both traditional and digital methods for creating speed lines, including specific tools, brushes, or software they use to maintain quality while meeting deadlines.
Q: How do you integrate speed lines with other motion effects?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they combine speed lines with impact frames, motion blur, and other techniques to create dynamic scenes without making the panel too busy.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic types of speed lines and when would you use each?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the difference between background speed lines, focus lines, and impact lines, with basic understanding of when each type is most appropriate.
Q: How do you ensure your speed lines don't distract from the main artwork?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of balance in composition and how to use speed lines to enhance rather than overwhelm the primary elements of a panel.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic speed line techniques
- Understanding of panel composition
- Digital art tool basics
- Simple motion effects
Mid (2-4 years)
- Advanced motion techniques
- Efficient workflow methods
- Multiple art style adaptation
- Digital and traditional expertise
Senior (4+ years)
- Teaching and mentoring ability
- Complex action scene creation
- Style development
- Project management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic manga storytelling principles
- Unable to show examples of dynamic scene work
- Lack of knowledge about industry standard tools
- Poor grasp of panel composition and flow
Related Terms
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