Regional magazines use consistent design codes on their covers to attract readers. The masthead is large and bold text that identifies the publication. The main image typically features a known local location or models representing the target audience. Layouts are busy, including many details to entice readers. Color schemes stand out against images and vary between bold, contrasting styles or lighter, more subtle palettes depending on the magazine's tone. The sell line is a short, attention-grabbing phrase to encourage purchases. Barcodes, prices and release dates are also displayed.

1. Regional
Magazines
Codes &
Conventions
Main Task

2. General Codes
– The Masthead – This tends to be big bold and the text that stands out the most on the page, it is at
the head of the page and usually fills up a large space, the colour of the masthead usually tends to
relate to the colour scheme used throughout the magazine, but also tends to represent the
ideology and image of the magazine.
– The Main Image – The main image shows usually a known location within that reason or models
which represent their target audience and match the ideology of their audience and magazine. The
models usually are able to set the tone for the style of the regional magazine, whether it is for
more youthful activities and takes a more fun upbeat approach or whether it is a more serious
informational magazine.
– The layout is usually busy, with there being a lot of information on the front cover in order to
entice the reader and give them a small amount of information before they buy the magazine.

3. General Codes
– Colour Scheme – Colour Schemes for regional magazines tend to vary, but the text is always
made to stand out against the background image. The colour schemes are bold however
regional magazines such as Kent life tend to take a more subtle and lighter colour scheme,
where as ABSOLUTE use bold colours throughout their magazine and use edgier colour
schemes. They also tend to be contrasting.
– The Sell line – This is used to attract the customers into buying the magazine, it tends to be
short and sweet, to catch the attention of the reader.
– Barcode, price and release date are all usually seen on the front cover of the magazine.