1. Long Shot
A long shot such as the one taken from Q
magazine is effective as it shows the cover
artist in full length giving the consumer a
clear understanding of who it is. In addition,
it also gives the customer a background to
view as it is required for a long shot to be
taken effectively.
I would consider incorporating this type of
shot within my music magazine as it would
provide my reader with the full knowledge of
who the model featured is.
2. Medium Shot
A medium shot such as the one taken from Q
magazine would be effective as it provides the
consumer with a realistic shot of how you see a real
person in front of. It is equally not too close and not
too far away.
I would consider applying this style of shot within
my magazine as it provides you with a realistic way
of seeing a real figure. It also shows you a closer
detail of features such as props or costume which I
may want to show off in my magazine.
3. Close Up
A close up shot such as the one taken from Q
magazine can be effective in a variety of ways. Firstly,
it allows the reader to see closer details on the main
image which will highlight a specific feature, in the
case the hands on the face and the colour of the eye
shadow. Close ups are also a very personal way of
involving the consumer as they get a very detailed
view.
I would consider using this style of shot as close ups
are also a very personal way of involving the
consumer as they get a very clear view of the model.
4. Extreme Close-up
An extreme close up shot such as the one
taken from Rolling Stone is effective as it
covers the full length of a page and it draws
the reader in instantly. In this case, the hair
has been edited out to focus on the cover
photo’s facial features.
I would consider using this within my
magazine as it highlights a unique featured
specific to that image.
5. Effective Lighting
Lighting is the most important technical issue in
photography. Lighting is the biggest contributor to light
and dark, to colours, and to shapes and lines. The
direction of light and shadow defines these lines and
shapes. Lighting is considered the most important thing
about a photo by photographers.
6. Facial Expression Theory
The facial expression theory is a primary focus for
the main cover. The expression used is required to
be appropriate for the genre of the magazine. For
instance, my magazine will be an alternative rock
magazine so it is imperative that my magazine
features a laid back tone. I will make sure that my
front cover is looking directly into the audience’s
eyes.
7. Effective Positioning
Effective positioning allows the audience to view exactly
what they want to see. Depending on what shot is being
used this will be effected by the positioning of the
model. In this photo, the positioning is effective as the
Miley Cyrus is located behind the M which is the initial
of her name.
8. The Rule of Thirds
The rule of thirds is a rule of thumb that acts as a guideline
which is used to create an effective photo. The rule of
thirds allows an image or cover be divided into nine equal
parts by two equally spaced horizontal lines and two
equally spaced vertical lines. The intersections of these
lines allows the main image to be the primary focus when
the audience first views it.
