Community FAQs
FAQs
2016 Big Bang Participants: Please read this announcement. The FAQs have not been updated to reflect any of these changes. We're going to try these for 2016 and will see how the participants like them before making the changes permanent.
We reserve the right to further clarify rules as needed and may update the FAQs from time to time.
Since FAQs can be updated and changed, we advise participants to read through them each year.
We have had some feedback about the small print on this page, but have had no success in being able to change it. However, you can hold down your crtl button and the + sign, to enlarge the print. The crtl button and the - sign will make the size smaller. Or you can change the Zoom percentage on your browser.
04/16/2017:
I've been meaning for years to separate the FAQs and I finally got around to it!
Please note: I am leaving this original available for review, reference and to keep the questions asked availalble. However, this page is no longer updated. The current, updated FAQs are the ones listed below.
Big Bang/Multi-Bang FAQs
Reverse Bang FAQs
With the addition of the new separate FAQs, this original will be kept as a backup, but will no longer be updated. For the most current FAQs, please use the above links.
Q: What is a Big Bang Challenge?
A: Big Bangs are generally challenges for longer stories, however, the minimum word count may vary from challenge to challenge. Weeks into the challenge authors offer up brief summaries which are posted anonymously for artists to claim. At the end of the challenge, there will be new stories and art to enjoy!
Q: What is a Reverse Bang?
A: In the Reverse Bang, artists are allowed to post their artwork anonymously and those are claimed by the authors who then write a story based on the artwork.
Q: What is the minimum word count for the NCIS Bang?
A: The current minimum is 10,000 words for the regular Big Bang and 3,000 words for the Reverse Bang. There is no maximum.
Q: Will the Big Bang and Reverse Bang run concurrently?
A: No. Although the Big Bang and the Reverse Bang will both run from this community, they will run at different times. The plans are: Spring sign-ups with posting in October for the Big Bang and Fall/Winter sign-ups with posting in May for the Reverse Bang.
Q: Can my story be part of a series or something I’ve already started?
A: Yes. Ideally, it would be best to have a stand-alone story and written within the challenge dates, however, as long as your challenge story can be read as a stand-alone (not requiring one to read the rest of the series for it to make sense) and as long as no part of this story has been posted elsewhere, it is acceptable.
Q: Are cross-overs allowed?
A: Absolutely, as long as one of your main characters comes from the original NCIS series. Keep in mind that if you’re writing or posting artwork for a cross-over, you may limit your chances of who may claim your art or story to people who are familiar with your cross-over characters. You may also limit who may read the story to those familiar with your cross-over characters. (NCIS:LA and NCIS:NO would be considered cross-overs.)
Q: Can the stories be based on the actors?
A: No. This is a fan fiction challenge based on the characters of NCIS. Stories must be based on the NCIS characters, not the actors who portray them.
Q: What characters can I use in my story?
A: One of your characters must be a regular NCIS character and must have appeared in a minimum of 10 episodes. You may pair the NCIS regular with an original, cross-over or any NCIS character. As long as one of your main characters is a NCIS regular, you may use as many or as few other NCIS characters as you would like. Keep in mind, though, this is a NCIS challenge and most readers will want to read stories that include NCIS characters.
Q: Are there any restrictions on category, genre, pairings, ratings or type of story?
A: No. You may write whatever you would like. You will be asked to choose a category (het, gen or slash), note your pairings (if any) and ratings.
Q: Does my story need to be completed by the rough draft due date?
A: Ideally, your story should be completed in rough draft (pre-beta) form. Your story should be at the point where it needs some polishing and perhaps a little tweaking here and there. With that said, we will allow you to submit a rough draft as long as you are sure you are at least 80% finished with full intent of completing the story in time to post. Rough drafts are offered to artists to claim. If you’re not certain you can complete your story, it’s not really fair to allow an artist to claim it.
Q: Do I need to have a beta read my story?
A: Not for the rough draft submission, but it absolutely must be beta-read before the posting date. If you don’t normally use a beta, watch the ncis_discuss community for our beta post. You may also check with your artist. Some artists are happy to serve as your beta since they’re reading through your story anyway. If you are unable to locate a beta through the community, please notify the mods and we will do what we can to help.
Q: What happens if I miss the rough draft deadline? Can I still post my story if I’m finished before posting begins?
A: If you miss the rough draft claim for Big Bang, your story will not be included in the artist claims. If you miss the artist claim, you may still notify us when your story is complete and you will be added to the posting schedule. At that point you may supply your own art or post without art. For the Reverse Bang, if you miss the Rough Draft due date, please notify solariana ASAP to discuss.
Q: Can I submit more than one Big Bang Story?
A: Yes! You may post one Micro bang story per year, and up to three stories total per year. We do ask that you not submit stories to the artist claim unless you are certain you will complete the story in time to post as it's not really fair to the Artist to create art for a story that isn't posted.
Q: What happens if an Artist doesn't claim my Big Bang story?
As much as we hope every story will be claimed for art, typically, there are more stories than Artists. If your story is not claimed by an Artist you may create your own art or post your story without art.
Q: Can I submit more than one Reverse Bang Story?
A: Watch the art claims. Initially writers can only claim one artwork. If there is unclaimed artwork, we may allow authors to pick up a second story.
Q: What if there are certain days around the posting time that I will not be available to post?
A: We will make a post prior to putting the schedule together asking what dates you’re not available to post. Please limit these dates to days that you will not have internet access (due to medical reasons, vacations, travel, long work days, etc.). Also keep in mind that either member of an Artist/Author team can make the post. The fewer *I can’t post* dates we get, the easier it is to schedule without having to delay the go live date.
Q: Are the scheduled dates carved in stone?
A: We do our best to follow the posted schedule. However, different occurrences may determine that a change must be made. For instance, if no one is available to post on week one of the posting schedule, we will adjust the posting date back rather than schedule someone who cannot post that day. The final schedule will be determined by the number of stories completed and the posting availability of the participants.
Q: I thought I was available, but something came up on my posting date at the last minute. What do I do?
A: Remember that you are part of an Artist/Author team and either member may make the Master Post. See if your partner can make the initial post. If neither of you are available to post on your scheduled date, please notify solariana ASAP, prior to your posting date.
Q: If I miss my scheduled posting date, can I post later?
Contact solariana ASAP. Do NOT post on a different date without permission. If you notify me PRIOR to your scheduled posting date, I will consider giving you a different date. If you do not notify me prior to your scheduled posting date, you will not be allowed to make a master post to the community, however, your story and accompanying art work may be linked in the master list at the discretion of the mod. Please remember that the artist, or your beta, may also make the master post to the community on your scheduled posting date.
*TIP:
If you're getting toward the end of your scheduled posting date and are not quite ready, go ahead and make your master post to the community and note that your story will be linked soon. That way, your master post will have the correct posting date and you won't be posting on someone else's day. Please note, if you do not link your story in a timely fashion (within 24 hours), we reserve the right to remove your post. It is always best to stay in communication with solariana and advise your status.
Q: What if I have to drop out?
Basically, communication is key. If you drop out before making a claim or offering a story/artwork for claims, there is no penalty. If you drop out after you have been matched up with someone, it depends on the challenge and your communication. See below.
Big Bang/Multi-Bang:
- If an Author drops out of the Big Bang before an Artist claims their story (or does not submit a rough draft for the artist claim), there is no penalty.
- If an Author drops out of the Big Bang after an artist has claimed their story, the Author will be banned from future Big Bang art claims, but are welcome to create their own art or post stories without art in future Big Bang challenges.
- If an Artist claims a story and does not create artwork, they will be banned from future Big Bang challenges. If we do not hear from the Artist, and Author does not receive art by the specified due date, Artist will lose the right to their art claim. Author can then choose to wait for the Artist, may post without art, or ask another Artist to step in. If the original Artist misses the due date and Author asks to have another Artist take the story, they must use the art from the second Artist art whether the original Artist comes through or not.
- If an Author repeatedly turns in rough drafts, is on the schedule, but fails to post a story, the Mod may choose to ban the Author from one or more future challenges, at the Mod's discretion.
Reverse Bang:
- If an Artist drops out before submitting artwork, there is no penalty.
- If an Artist goes MIA afterward, the Author will be allowed to post their story with the original artwork submitted. Challenge Mod reserves the right to add the story title, author and artist names to the original art.
- If the Author drops out before claiming artwork, there is no penalty.
- If an Author drops out of the Reverse Bang with notification (to both Mod AND Artist) after claiming artwork and prior to the rough draft due date, they will be banned from the Reverse Bang for one year. If Author fails to notify both Mod and Artist prior to the rough draft due date, they may be banned for more than one year, or permanently, at Mod's discretion.
- If an Author drops out of the Reverse Bang with no notification, or on or after the rough draft due date, they will be banned from future Reverse Bang challenges.
Q: Where should I post my Big Bang/Multi-Bang or Reverse Bang story?
A: You may post it to your own site of your preference (do not post the actual story to the community, only links). LJ and AO3 are the more popular choices. You may post and link the story to more than one site (i.e. both AO3 and LJ). Keep in mind that your post cannot be locked and if your comments are set to block anonymous commenters, you may be blocking someone who wants to comment, but doesn’t have an account where you have chosen to post. Do not post your story/art anywhere until your scheduled posting date. (Yes, you can make a PRIVATE locked post to make sure everything is correct and ready to go, but do not unlock the post until your posting date.)
Q: Where should I post my Big Bang/Reverse Bang art?
A: Like the Authors, Artists may post to their own site of their preference where the author may link to it. Or they may send the art to the author to post with the story. Do not post the art anywhere until your scheduled date (unless PRIVATE locked). Art may be posted with the master link with the story link, but must either be thumbnail size or behind a cut.
Q: My story is posted in several chapters. Should I link each chapter to the community post?
A: The Master Post can include all chapter links, plus a link to the artwork, provided there is a separate link (it’s fine to post art with the story). The minimum would be to post the link to the main page of the story.
Q: Who should make the Master Post to the community, the Author or the Artist?
A: Traditionally, it is the Author who posts, but either team member may submit the Master Post. If the Author cannot make the post, they may ask their Artist, Beta or another Proxy to make the Master Post on their scheduled day. The Artist may also make a separate Master Post on the scheduled day which may include the art, and also a link to the story. The Artist post is optional, if the Author has created a Master Post.
Q: Who will have posting access?
A: Everyone listed on the Challenge posting schedule will be given access. Participants will need to join (rather than *watch*) the community to be given posting access***. Please note, in this community, you should only post links to your story/artwork on your scheduled posting day. There should be one post per team. If you would like to start any other related posts, such as questions, comments, teasers, etc, please do so at ncis_discuss.
***I have to manually give members posting access - as it is not all members, but only those participating in the current challenge. However, I can only give posting access to members (not those just watching). I am also sometimes away from internet access up to 12 hours a day, so please be sure you have posting access prior to your scheduled posting date (you can check this on our profile page).***
Q: How much collaboration should there be between Author and Artist?
A: It is up to you. We ask that you be respectful of the other, and respond to communications in a timely manner. One person does not need to approve the other’s work, but if you want to work together to bounce ideas around, that is perfectly fine. It is also acceptable to work alone. Do not pressure your partner to collaborate if they prefer not to.
Q: What is the due date for the Bang Challenge Artist to have their work to the Author?
A: Many Artists will send it early to ensure their Author is happy with the work and to allow time for minor changes. This will eliminate issues of last minute computer crashes or emergencies, giving the Author time to upload, review and get ready to post the artwork and catch any mistakes in the spelling of the story title or Author name, etc. The due date for completed artwork is 30 September for the Big Bang and 30 April for the Reverse Bang.
*For the Big Bang/Multi-Bang - If the Artist fails to send the artwork to the Author by the due date, Author must make an attempt to reach Artist. If Artist fails to send artwork to the Author within 5 days of the scheduled posting date, Author may engage a second Artist to create artwork. If a second artist is engaged, that is the art that must be used for the challenge. Again communication is the key. If you are going to be late, email your partner and let them know.
*For the Reverse Bang - If the Artist goes MIA, Author may contact Mod and Mod will add Author and Artist names, and the title, to the original artwork. Again communication is the key. If you are going to be late, email your partner and let them know.
Q: What if my other team member drops out?
A: We ask that Authors not submit a rough draft for the Big Bang artist claim unless they are 100% certain that they will be ready in time to post for the challenge, but there are times that things come up in RL. Be sure you make initial contact right away, either by PM or email. The earlier you get together, the better. If you do not hear from your partner within a week, try again via email. If there is still no response, please notify one of the mods and we will try for you. If your partner has dropped off the face of the earth and fails to respond, as a Big Bang Author, you may do your own art or see if you can find someone else to do art for you. If you are the Artist, you may still post your art without story links.
For the Reverse Bang, if an Artist is not communicating, the Author can post the originally submitted artwork with their story. Please notify solariana if you have not heard from your artist by the Artwork due date. We have other artists who can add your title and the author and artist name to the original artwork. If the Author disappears with no communication and misses the rough draft due date, They will be banned from future challenges. If the Author fails to turn in a rough draft or fails to post a story, Artist may submit the artwork for the next year's challenge, provided it has not been used or posted elsewhere, or Artist may choose to give the artwork to another Author, provided it is not posted prior to June. Artist may also choose to use artwork themselves.
Q: Is every Big Bang story guaranteed to get art?
A: Sadly, we cannot promise that as there tends to be more Authors than Artists in the fandom. We will allow Artists to claim additional stories if any are unclaimed after set time (usually 2-3 days). The mods will do their best to ensure every story submitted by the first rough draft date has artwork. Once all signed up Artists have had the opportunity to make their claims, we will offer unclaimed stories to Artists who did not sign up.
Q: I do both art and write. Can I provide my own artwork for the Big Bang challenge?
A: Yes. You may either note when you submit your story that you will provide your own artwork and would like to opt out of the artist claim or you may have your summary included in the artist claim and claim the story yourself. However, if someone else claims your story, you should use their artwork only.
Q: What qualifies as art? (Part 1), Are there any limitations?
A: Most artists at least provide cover art or a banner, but you are not limited to that. Art may be photoshop, illustrations, videos, etc. You should produce at least one piece of art that can be posted with or linked to from the story. You may certainly produce as much art as you would like. If you want to portray a scene from each chapter, favorite scenes, chapter headings, icons, wallpapers, create multiple banners, etc., you are more than welcome to do so. You may submit all or allow the Author to choose (and they may choose ALL!). Your art should be based on the fiction it is representing.
Q: What qualifies as art? (Part 2)
A: Art definition:
The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.
The art you submit must be created by you. You may not submit someone else's artwork. Untouched or cropped downloaded photos are not acceptable submissions for art. Simply adding text to an otherwise untouched or cropped downloaded photo is also not acceptable. You must artistically alter the photo beyond adding text and cropping. Moderators may disqualify art or may ask to see the originals that you worked from to determine whether your submission is acceptable or not.
Q: How is the order of the submissions determined for the Reverse Bang Art Claim?
When I receive artwork for the challenge, it is numbered in the order in which I receive it. I then take that number list and use a Random Sequence Generator to determine the order.
Q: How does the Big Bang Artist Claim work?
A: When Authors submit their rough draft, they are required to include a summary along with other key features (i.e. category, rating, warnings, etc). A post will be made including the summaries submitted. Authors’ names will not be included. Usually the Artists will have at least 24 hours to review the summaries before the claims go live. Once the claim is live, the stories are available on a first come, first serve basis. Artists are allowed to post their 1st and 2nd choices (or more). In the event that someone else’s post beats them in on their 1st choice, an Artist will be given their 2nd choice (if not yet claimed). If there are unclaimed stories after a set time (usually 1-2 days), artists will be allowed to claim an additional story or stories. They are asked not to claim more stories than they will be able to complete art for. If there are still unclaimed summaries, they may be offered to Artists who did not sign up for the challenge.
Q: I am signed up as an Artist, but will be unavailable the first day of the Big Bang Artist Claim. What should I do?
A: You are allowed to have someone claim for you. Please make certain your proxy notes who they are claiming the story for. You are not required to tell us if you are using a proxy. As there are usually more stories than artists, all stories may not be claimed on the first day. Also, if there are additional stories finished by a later date and enough artists interested, we may run a second artist claim.
Q: As a signed up Big Bang Author, am I limited to one story?
A: No. If you finish one story, you are welcome to begin another and if it is ready to post in time, it may be included with the challenge. You are limited to one Micro Bang (5K-10K) per year, and a total of three stories per year.
Q: Where do I send my rough draft?
A: Watch for a post a week or two before the due date. That post will include instructions for submitting your rough draft.
Q: Will there be mandatory check ins?
A: No. However, we do appreciate hearing from participants. There's nothing worse than a participant who does not communicate, so you are encouraged to comment on the check-in posts to let us know you're still around. There will be polls and/or discussions posted at ncis_discuss that you are encouraged to follow and participate in. If you do not turn in a rough draft by the due date we will assume you have dropped out unless we hear from you differently. As long as you notify us you are ready before the posting schedule is made, you will be added to the schedule. If your story is complete and beta-read, but the schedule has already been posted, please contact solariana to see if you can be added. Please note, failing to post a story may ban you from future challenges.
Q: How does the Reverse Bang claims work?
A: Artists will submit artwork, which will be posted anonymously on an Author Claim post, Authors can claim the artwork to base a story on. The art will be posted at least 24 hours before the claims go live. Once the claims are live, art will be claimed on a first come, first serve basis. Authors may submit a 1st and 2nd choice (or more). In the event that someone beats them on their first claim, they will be assigned their second choice (if unclaimed). If there is unclaimed art after a time (usually 1-2 days), Authors will be allowed to claim additional art to write for. Please do not claim more art than you have time to write stories for. If there is still unclaimed artwork after a couple if days, we may open the claims to Authors who did not sign up.
Q: As a Reverse Bang Artist, am I limited to one piece of art?
A: No. You may submit art for up to three stories. You may also develop more that one piece of art for the same story. Only one piece of art may be submitted for the claim per story prompt, although, you can make it a collage if you have created multiple pieces of art, or you may choose the piece you believe is most likely to be claimed.
Q: In the Reverse Bang, what if the number of Artists and Authors don't match?
A: If there is more art than Authors, Authors will be allowed to claim additional artwork. If there are more Authors than Artwork, we may open up claims for a second round. We may also allow Authors who did not sign-up make claims.
Q: Will the Artist submit only their original art for posting or can they update it after reading the story?
A: Artists may update the original artwork, and are welcome to add more artwork based on the story. Artist must provide at least one banner that includes the Author's name and the story title.
Q: Who should post the story and artwork to the community for the Reverse Bang?
A: That is up to the Artist and Author to work out. Typically, the posts are made by the Authors, but either one can make the post. Each member may make a Master Post if they choose. The team is only required to make one Master Post between them.
Q: An Author claimed artwork for the Reverse Bang, but did not post a story for the challenge. What happens?
The art was claimed for the Reverse Bang Challenge. By putting the art up for claim, Artist has only given permission for a story to be created around that art for the duration of the challenge. If the challenge ends and Author fails to post a story on their scheduled date, they lose the right to use the art and they must request written permission from the Artist to use the art after the challenge. If Author fails to finish a story or post a story on their scheduled date, Artist may deny Author the right to use the art and may submit the art for the next Reverse Bang challenge as long as it has not been used or posted elsewhere. If a story is posted on the scheduled challenge date, the Author retains the right to post the art with the story and may continue to do so. Art that has previously been claimed AND posted with a story, should not be submitted for another Reverse Bang challenge.
Q: What happens if art is submitted for the Reverse Bang claims, but is not claimed?
Usually, there are more Authors than Artists. I'd like to think chances are slim that art would not be claimed. If there is a case where art is not claimed, we may allow Authors to pick up another piece of art for another story, or may allow Authors who did not originally sign up for the challenge to claim art. If any art is not claimed during the challenge, it may be submitted the following year provided it is not posted or used elsewhere.
Q: I have a question and I do not see the answer above. Who can help?
A: Please feel free to post to this thread or you may email me at jacieleigh (at) gmail (dot) com. I run multiple challenges so please be sure to clarify which challenge you're asking about.
We reserve the right to further clarify rules as needed and may update the FAQs from time to time.
2016 Big Bang Participants: Please read this announcement. The FAQs have not been updated to reflect any of these changes. We're going to try these for 2016 and will see how the participants like them before making the changes permanent.
We reserve the right to further clarify rules as needed and may update the FAQs from time to time.
Since FAQs can be updated and changed, we advise participants to read through them each year.
We have had some feedback about the small print on this page, but have had no success in being able to change it. However, you can hold down your crtl button and the + sign, to enlarge the print. The crtl button and the - sign will make the size smaller. Or you can change the Zoom percentage on your browser.
04/16/2017:
I've been meaning for years to separate the FAQs and I finally got around to it!
Please note: I am leaving this original available for review, reference and to keep the questions asked availalble. However, this page is no longer updated. The current, updated FAQs are the ones listed below.
Big Bang/Multi-Bang FAQs
Reverse Bang FAQs
With the addition of the new separate FAQs, this original will be kept as a backup, but will no longer be updated. For the most current FAQs, please use the above links.
Q: What is a Big Bang Challenge?
A: Big Bangs are generally challenges for longer stories, however, the minimum word count may vary from challenge to challenge. Weeks into the challenge authors offer up brief summaries which are posted anonymously for artists to claim. At the end of the challenge, there will be new stories and art to enjoy!
Q: What is a Reverse Bang?
A: In the Reverse Bang, artists are allowed to post their artwork anonymously and those are claimed by the authors who then write a story based on the artwork.
Q: What is the minimum word count for the NCIS Bang?
A: The current minimum is 10,000 words for the regular Big Bang and 3,000 words for the Reverse Bang. There is no maximum.
Q: Will the Big Bang and Reverse Bang run concurrently?
A: No. Although the Big Bang and the Reverse Bang will both run from this community, they will run at different times. The plans are: Spring sign-ups with posting in October for the Big Bang and Fall/Winter sign-ups with posting in May for the Reverse Bang.
Q: Can my story be part of a series or something I’ve already started?
A: Yes. Ideally, it would be best to have a stand-alone story and written within the challenge dates, however, as long as your challenge story can be read as a stand-alone (not requiring one to read the rest of the series for it to make sense) and as long as no part of this story has been posted elsewhere, it is acceptable.
Q: Are cross-overs allowed?
A: Absolutely, as long as one of your main characters comes from the original NCIS series. Keep in mind that if you’re writing or posting artwork for a cross-over, you may limit your chances of who may claim your art or story to people who are familiar with your cross-over characters. You may also limit who may read the story to those familiar with your cross-over characters. (NCIS:LA and NCIS:NO would be considered cross-overs.)
Q: Can the stories be based on the actors?
A: No. This is a fan fiction challenge based on the characters of NCIS. Stories must be based on the NCIS characters, not the actors who portray them.
Q: What characters can I use in my story?
A: One of your characters must be a regular NCIS character and must have appeared in a minimum of 10 episodes. You may pair the NCIS regular with an original, cross-over or any NCIS character. As long as one of your main characters is a NCIS regular, you may use as many or as few other NCIS characters as you would like. Keep in mind, though, this is a NCIS challenge and most readers will want to read stories that include NCIS characters.
Q: Are there any restrictions on category, genre, pairings, ratings or type of story?
A: No. You may write whatever you would like. You will be asked to choose a category (het, gen or slash), note your pairings (if any) and ratings.
Q: Does my story need to be completed by the rough draft due date?
A: Ideally, your story should be completed in rough draft (pre-beta) form. Your story should be at the point where it needs some polishing and perhaps a little tweaking here and there. With that said, we will allow you to submit a rough draft as long as you are sure you are at least 80% finished with full intent of completing the story in time to post. Rough drafts are offered to artists to claim. If you’re not certain you can complete your story, it’s not really fair to allow an artist to claim it.
Q: Do I need to have a beta read my story?
A: Not for the rough draft submission, but it absolutely must be beta-read before the posting date. If you don’t normally use a beta, watch the ncis_discuss community for our beta post. You may also check with your artist. Some artists are happy to serve as your beta since they’re reading through your story anyway. If you are unable to locate a beta through the community, please notify the mods and we will do what we can to help.
Q: What happens if I miss the rough draft deadline? Can I still post my story if I’m finished before posting begins?
A: If you miss the rough draft claim for Big Bang, your story will not be included in the artist claims. If you miss the artist claim, you may still notify us when your story is complete and you will be added to the posting schedule. At that point you may supply your own art or post without art. For the Reverse Bang, if you miss the Rough Draft due date, please notify solariana ASAP to discuss.
Q: Can I submit more than one Big Bang Story?
A: Yes! You may post one Micro bang story per year, and up to three stories total per year. We do ask that you not submit stories to the artist claim unless you are certain you will complete the story in time to post as it's not really fair to the Artist to create art for a story that isn't posted.
Q: What happens if an Artist doesn't claim my Big Bang story?
As much as we hope every story will be claimed for art, typically, there are more stories than Artists. If your story is not claimed by an Artist you may create your own art or post your story without art.
Q: Can I submit more than one Reverse Bang Story?
A: Watch the art claims. Initially writers can only claim one artwork. If there is unclaimed artwork, we may allow authors to pick up a second story.
Q: What if there are certain days around the posting time that I will not be available to post?
A: We will make a post prior to putting the schedule together asking what dates you’re not available to post. Please limit these dates to days that you will not have internet access (due to medical reasons, vacations, travel, long work days, etc.). Also keep in mind that either member of an Artist/Author team can make the post. The fewer *I can’t post* dates we get, the easier it is to schedule without having to delay the go live date.
Q: Are the scheduled dates carved in stone?
A: We do our best to follow the posted schedule. However, different occurrences may determine that a change must be made. For instance, if no one is available to post on week one of the posting schedule, we will adjust the posting date back rather than schedule someone who cannot post that day. The final schedule will be determined by the number of stories completed and the posting availability of the participants.
Q: I thought I was available, but something came up on my posting date at the last minute. What do I do?
A: Remember that you are part of an Artist/Author team and either member may make the Master Post. See if your partner can make the initial post. If neither of you are available to post on your scheduled date, please notify solariana ASAP, prior to your posting date.
Q: If I miss my scheduled posting date, can I post later?
Contact solariana ASAP. Do NOT post on a different date without permission. If you notify me PRIOR to your scheduled posting date, I will consider giving you a different date. If you do not notify me prior to your scheduled posting date, you will not be allowed to make a master post to the community, however, your story and accompanying art work may be linked in the master list at the discretion of the mod. Please remember that the artist, or your beta, may also make the master post to the community on your scheduled posting date.
*TIP:
If you're getting toward the end of your scheduled posting date and are not quite ready, go ahead and make your master post to the community and note that your story will be linked soon. That way, your master post will have the correct posting date and you won't be posting on someone else's day. Please note, if you do not link your story in a timely fashion (within 24 hours), we reserve the right to remove your post. It is always best to stay in communication with solariana and advise your status.
Q: What if I have to drop out?
Basically, communication is key. If you drop out before making a claim or offering a story/artwork for claims, there is no penalty. If you drop out after you have been matched up with someone, it depends on the challenge and your communication. See below.
Big Bang/Multi-Bang:
- If an Author drops out of the Big Bang before an Artist claims their story (or does not submit a rough draft for the artist claim), there is no penalty.
- If an Author drops out of the Big Bang after an artist has claimed their story, the Author will be banned from future Big Bang art claims, but are welcome to create their own art or post stories without art in future Big Bang challenges.
- If an Artist claims a story and does not create artwork, they will be banned from future Big Bang challenges. If we do not hear from the Artist, and Author does not receive art by the specified due date, Artist will lose the right to their art claim. Author can then choose to wait for the Artist, may post without art, or ask another Artist to step in. If the original Artist misses the due date and Author asks to have another Artist take the story, they must use the art from the second Artist art whether the original Artist comes through or not.
- If an Author repeatedly turns in rough drafts, is on the schedule, but fails to post a story, the Mod may choose to ban the Author from one or more future challenges, at the Mod's discretion.
Reverse Bang:
- If an Artist drops out before submitting artwork, there is no penalty.
- If an Artist goes MIA afterward, the Author will be allowed to post their story with the original artwork submitted. Challenge Mod reserves the right to add the story title, author and artist names to the original art.
- If the Author drops out before claiming artwork, there is no penalty.
- If an Author drops out of the Reverse Bang with notification (to both Mod AND Artist) after claiming artwork and prior to the rough draft due date, they will be banned from the Reverse Bang for one year. If Author fails to notify both Mod and Artist prior to the rough draft due date, they may be banned for more than one year, or permanently, at Mod's discretion.
- If an Author drops out of the Reverse Bang with no notification, or on or after the rough draft due date, they will be banned from future Reverse Bang challenges.
Q: Where should I post my Big Bang/Multi-Bang or Reverse Bang story?
A: You may post it to your own site of your preference (do not post the actual story to the community, only links). LJ and AO3 are the more popular choices. You may post and link the story to more than one site (i.e. both AO3 and LJ). Keep in mind that your post cannot be locked and if your comments are set to block anonymous commenters, you may be blocking someone who wants to comment, but doesn’t have an account where you have chosen to post. Do not post your story/art anywhere until your scheduled posting date. (Yes, you can make a PRIVATE locked post to make sure everything is correct and ready to go, but do not unlock the post until your posting date.)
Q: Where should I post my Big Bang/Reverse Bang art?
A: Like the Authors, Artists may post to their own site of their preference where the author may link to it. Or they may send the art to the author to post with the story. Do not post the art anywhere until your scheduled date (unless PRIVATE locked). Art may be posted with the master link with the story link, but must either be thumbnail size or behind a cut.
Q: My story is posted in several chapters. Should I link each chapter to the community post?
A: The Master Post can include all chapter links, plus a link to the artwork, provided there is a separate link (it’s fine to post art with the story). The minimum would be to post the link to the main page of the story.
Q: Who should make the Master Post to the community, the Author or the Artist?
A: Traditionally, it is the Author who posts, but either team member may submit the Master Post. If the Author cannot make the post, they may ask their Artist, Beta or another Proxy to make the Master Post on their scheduled day. The Artist may also make a separate Master Post on the scheduled day which may include the art, and also a link to the story. The Artist post is optional, if the Author has created a Master Post.
Q: Who will have posting access?
A: Everyone listed on the Challenge posting schedule will be given access. Participants will need to join (rather than *watch*) the community to be given posting access***. Please note, in this community, you should only post links to your story/artwork on your scheduled posting day. There should be one post per team. If you would like to start any other related posts, such as questions, comments, teasers, etc, please do so at ncis_discuss.
***I have to manually give members posting access - as it is not all members, but only those participating in the current challenge. However, I can only give posting access to members (not those just watching). I am also sometimes away from internet access up to 12 hours a day, so please be sure you have posting access prior to your scheduled posting date (you can check this on our profile page).***
Q: How much collaboration should there be between Author and Artist?
A: It is up to you. We ask that you be respectful of the other, and respond to communications in a timely manner. One person does not need to approve the other’s work, but if you want to work together to bounce ideas around, that is perfectly fine. It is also acceptable to work alone. Do not pressure your partner to collaborate if they prefer not to.
Q: What is the due date for the Bang Challenge Artist to have their work to the Author?
A: Many Artists will send it early to ensure their Author is happy with the work and to allow time for minor changes. This will eliminate issues of last minute computer crashes or emergencies, giving the Author time to upload, review and get ready to post the artwork and catch any mistakes in the spelling of the story title or Author name, etc. The due date for completed artwork is 30 September for the Big Bang and 30 April for the Reverse Bang.
*For the Big Bang/Multi-Bang - If the Artist fails to send the artwork to the Author by the due date, Author must make an attempt to reach Artist. If Artist fails to send artwork to the Author within 5 days of the scheduled posting date, Author may engage a second Artist to create artwork. If a second artist is engaged, that is the art that must be used for the challenge. Again communication is the key. If you are going to be late, email your partner and let them know.
*For the Reverse Bang - If the Artist goes MIA, Author may contact Mod and Mod will add Author and Artist names, and the title, to the original artwork. Again communication is the key. If you are going to be late, email your partner and let them know.
Q: What if my other team member drops out?
A: We ask that Authors not submit a rough draft for the Big Bang artist claim unless they are 100% certain that they will be ready in time to post for the challenge, but there are times that things come up in RL. Be sure you make initial contact right away, either by PM or email. The earlier you get together, the better. If you do not hear from your partner within a week, try again via email. If there is still no response, please notify one of the mods and we will try for you. If your partner has dropped off the face of the earth and fails to respond, as a Big Bang Author, you may do your own art or see if you can find someone else to do art for you. If you are the Artist, you may still post your art without story links.
For the Reverse Bang, if an Artist is not communicating, the Author can post the originally submitted artwork with their story. Please notify solariana if you have not heard from your artist by the Artwork due date. We have other artists who can add your title and the author and artist name to the original artwork. If the Author disappears with no communication and misses the rough draft due date, They will be banned from future challenges. If the Author fails to turn in a rough draft or fails to post a story, Artist may submit the artwork for the next year's challenge, provided it has not been used or posted elsewhere, or Artist may choose to give the artwork to another Author, provided it is not posted prior to June. Artist may also choose to use artwork themselves.
Q: Is every Big Bang story guaranteed to get art?
A: Sadly, we cannot promise that as there tends to be more Authors than Artists in the fandom. We will allow Artists to claim additional stories if any are unclaimed after set time (usually 2-3 days). The mods will do their best to ensure every story submitted by the first rough draft date has artwork. Once all signed up Artists have had the opportunity to make their claims, we will offer unclaimed stories to Artists who did not sign up.
Q: I do both art and write. Can I provide my own artwork for the Big Bang challenge?
A: Yes. You may either note when you submit your story that you will provide your own artwork and would like to opt out of the artist claim or you may have your summary included in the artist claim and claim the story yourself. However, if someone else claims your story, you should use their artwork only.
Q: What qualifies as art? (Part 1), Are there any limitations?
A: Most artists at least provide cover art or a banner, but you are not limited to that. Art may be photoshop, illustrations, videos, etc. You should produce at least one piece of art that can be posted with or linked to from the story. You may certainly produce as much art as you would like. If you want to portray a scene from each chapter, favorite scenes, chapter headings, icons, wallpapers, create multiple banners, etc., you are more than welcome to do so. You may submit all or allow the Author to choose (and they may choose ALL!). Your art should be based on the fiction it is representing.
Q: What qualifies as art? (Part 2)
A: Art definition:
The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.
The art you submit must be created by you. You may not submit someone else's artwork. Untouched or cropped downloaded photos are not acceptable submissions for art. Simply adding text to an otherwise untouched or cropped downloaded photo is also not acceptable. You must artistically alter the photo beyond adding text and cropping. Moderators may disqualify art or may ask to see the originals that you worked from to determine whether your submission is acceptable or not.
Q: How is the order of the submissions determined for the Reverse Bang Art Claim?
When I receive artwork for the challenge, it is numbered in the order in which I receive it. I then take that number list and use a Random Sequence Generator to determine the order.
Q: How does the Big Bang Artist Claim work?
A: When Authors submit their rough draft, they are required to include a summary along with other key features (i.e. category, rating, warnings, etc). A post will be made including the summaries submitted. Authors’ names will not be included. Usually the Artists will have at least 24 hours to review the summaries before the claims go live. Once the claim is live, the stories are available on a first come, first serve basis. Artists are allowed to post their 1st and 2nd choices (or more). In the event that someone else’s post beats them in on their 1st choice, an Artist will be given their 2nd choice (if not yet claimed). If there are unclaimed stories after a set time (usually 1-2 days), artists will be allowed to claim an additional story or stories. They are asked not to claim more stories than they will be able to complete art for. If there are still unclaimed summaries, they may be offered to Artists who did not sign up for the challenge.
Q: I am signed up as an Artist, but will be unavailable the first day of the Big Bang Artist Claim. What should I do?
A: You are allowed to have someone claim for you. Please make certain your proxy notes who they are claiming the story for. You are not required to tell us if you are using a proxy. As there are usually more stories than artists, all stories may not be claimed on the first day. Also, if there are additional stories finished by a later date and enough artists interested, we may run a second artist claim.
Q: As a signed up Big Bang Author, am I limited to one story?
A: No. If you finish one story, you are welcome to begin another and if it is ready to post in time, it may be included with the challenge. You are limited to one Micro Bang (5K-10K) per year, and a total of three stories per year.
Q: Where do I send my rough draft?
A: Watch for a post a week or two before the due date. That post will include instructions for submitting your rough draft.
Q: Will there be mandatory check ins?
A: No. However, we do appreciate hearing from participants. There's nothing worse than a participant who does not communicate, so you are encouraged to comment on the check-in posts to let us know you're still around. There will be polls and/or discussions posted at ncis_discuss that you are encouraged to follow and participate in. If you do not turn in a rough draft by the due date we will assume you have dropped out unless we hear from you differently. As long as you notify us you are ready before the posting schedule is made, you will be added to the schedule. If your story is complete and beta-read, but the schedule has already been posted, please contact solariana to see if you can be added. Please note, failing to post a story may ban you from future challenges.
Q: How does the Reverse Bang claims work?
A: Artists will submit artwork, which will be posted anonymously on an Author Claim post, Authors can claim the artwork to base a story on. The art will be posted at least 24 hours before the claims go live. Once the claims are live, art will be claimed on a first come, first serve basis. Authors may submit a 1st and 2nd choice (or more). In the event that someone beats them on their first claim, they will be assigned their second choice (if unclaimed). If there is unclaimed art after a time (usually 1-2 days), Authors will be allowed to claim additional art to write for. Please do not claim more art than you have time to write stories for. If there is still unclaimed artwork after a couple if days, we may open the claims to Authors who did not sign up.
Q: As a Reverse Bang Artist, am I limited to one piece of art?
A: No. You may submit art for up to three stories. You may also develop more that one piece of art for the same story. Only one piece of art may be submitted for the claim per story prompt, although, you can make it a collage if you have created multiple pieces of art, or you may choose the piece you believe is most likely to be claimed.
Q: In the Reverse Bang, what if the number of Artists and Authors don't match?
A: If there is more art than Authors, Authors will be allowed to claim additional artwork. If there are more Authors than Artwork, we may open up claims for a second round. We may also allow Authors who did not sign-up make claims.
Q: Will the Artist submit only their original art for posting or can they update it after reading the story?
A: Artists may update the original artwork, and are welcome to add more artwork based on the story. Artist must provide at least one banner that includes the Author's name and the story title.
Q: Who should post the story and artwork to the community for the Reverse Bang?
A: That is up to the Artist and Author to work out. Typically, the posts are made by the Authors, but either one can make the post. Each member may make a Master Post if they choose. The team is only required to make one Master Post between them.
Q: An Author claimed artwork for the Reverse Bang, but did not post a story for the challenge. What happens?
The art was claimed for the Reverse Bang Challenge. By putting the art up for claim, Artist has only given permission for a story to be created around that art for the duration of the challenge. If the challenge ends and Author fails to post a story on their scheduled date, they lose the right to use the art and they must request written permission from the Artist to use the art after the challenge. If Author fails to finish a story or post a story on their scheduled date, Artist may deny Author the right to use the art and may submit the art for the next Reverse Bang challenge as long as it has not been used or posted elsewhere. If a story is posted on the scheduled challenge date, the Author retains the right to post the art with the story and may continue to do so. Art that has previously been claimed AND posted with a story, should not be submitted for another Reverse Bang challenge.
Q: What happens if art is submitted for the Reverse Bang claims, but is not claimed?
Usually, there are more Authors than Artists. I'd like to think chances are slim that art would not be claimed. If there is a case where art is not claimed, we may allow Authors to pick up another piece of art for another story, or may allow Authors who did not originally sign up for the challenge to claim art. If any art is not claimed during the challenge, it may be submitted the following year provided it is not posted or used elsewhere.
Q: I have a question and I do not see the answer above. Who can help?
A: Please feel free to post to this thread or you may email me at jacieleigh (at) gmail (dot) com. I run multiple challenges so please be sure to clarify which challenge you're asking about.
We reserve the right to further clarify rules as needed and may update the FAQs from time to time.