Comparing Crowdfunding and Direct Market: Insights from Dead Air’s Benjamin Hunting – ComixLaunch

Crowdfunding and direct market are two popular ways for creators to fund their projects and get their work in front of audiences. While both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, it can be difficult to determine which one is the best fit for a particular project. To shed some light on this topic, we turn to Benjamin Hunting, the creator of the comic book series Dead Air, who has experience with both crowdfunding and direct market.

Crowdfunding is a method of raising funds for a project by soliciting small contributions from a large number of people, typically via the internet. Platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo have made it easier than ever for creators to launch crowdfunding campaigns and reach potential backers. Hunting used Kickstarter to fund the first issue of Dead Air, which was successfully funded in 2015.

One of the biggest advantages of crowdfunding is that it allows creators to bypass traditional gatekeepers like publishers and distributors. This means that creators have more control over their projects and can connect directly with their audience. Hunting notes that crowdfunding also provides valuable feedback from backers, who can offer suggestions and critiques that can help improve the project.

However, crowdfunding also has its downsides. Hunting notes that running a successful campaign requires a lot of work and can be stressful. Creators need to create compelling content, promote their campaign, and manage rewards and fulfillment. Additionally, there is no guarantee that a campaign will be successful, which can be discouraging for creators who have invested a lot of time and effort into their project.

Direct market, on the other hand, refers to the traditional distribution channels for comics, such as comic book stores and online retailers like Amazon. Hunting has experience with direct market through his work with publisher Alterna Comics, which distributes Dead Air through Diamond Comic Distributors.

One advantage of direct market is that it provides creators with wider distribution and exposure. Comics sold through direct market are available to a larger audience than those funded through crowdfunding campaigns. Additionally, direct market provides a more stable source of income for creators, as they receive payment for their work upfront.

However, direct market also has its drawbacks. Hunting notes that it can be difficult for independent creators to break into the market, as it is dominated by established publishers and franchises. Additionally, creators have less control over their work when it is distributed through traditional channels, as they must adhere to the guidelines and standards set by publishers and distributors.

In conclusion, both crowdfunding and direct market have their advantages and disadvantages. Creators should carefully consider their goals and resources when deciding which method to use. Hunting advises creators to be open to both options and to be willing to adapt their approach based on their experiences. Ultimately, the most important thing is to create quality work that resonates with audiences, regardless of how it is funded or distributed.

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