The strip was launched in July 2006, and was originally intended as content filler for the website of Johnson's band, Sweet Jelly, rather than as a serious endeavor.
[4] The comic strip's witty humor and smart observations about photography have made it a favorite among many amateur and professional photographers.
[4] However, Johnson said that What the Duck is not just about photographers, but about creative professionals in general: the strip provides a sometimes-unique perspective about their lives and experiences, and represents a "voice that isn’t always heard".
[4] What the Duck has been described as having a "minimalist" style, utilizing "clean lines, crisp colors, and witty, wry dialogue".
John Glynn, Vice President of Rights and Acquisitions for UPS, referred to Johnson as "the first real 21st century cartoonist".