2. Main features of a magazine front cover Sky Line – other main features of the magazine Modal credit Masthead Main image Main cover line – the area in which the main feature is shown Cover line lead article PLUS! = buzz word. It pulls the reader in barcode Cover line Date line Left third
4. Main cover image This image is obviously of a member of arcade fire, as directly underneath the image is text (second biggest size text – means that this article will be the main feature of the magazine) that says ‘Arcade Fire’. The mise-en-scene of this photo is unconventional of a music magazine, as he’s posing in quite an ordinary way, and his hair and clothes are quite plain and casual. Also, there are no signs of instruments, which could also indicate that he’s the lead singer. His clothing compliments the background, as the black stands out from the light blue colour, and the navy stripe across his arm matches with the blue theme Masthead This magazine uses big, bold, simple text. Also, the font is quite plain and square, and therefore looks more masculine. For this front cover, a white colour is used, which stands out against the faded blue background, and therefore draws you in. However, the masthead colour changes each issue depending on the colour of the background. Text The colour of the text includes white, grey, dark blue and orange, which when put together, really stand out, especially by combining orange and blue, as they are two opposite colours. This is a typical marketing technique, as the combination of opposite colours make the colours appear brighter. All of the text is written using the same, plain font, which may have been done to show neatness and sophistication. There is very little text, giving the front cover a neat, ordered appearance, which is unconventional of a music magazine, as usually the text is a combination of decorative fonts and colours. This magazine may have quite a strong audience, and may feel as though that type of marketing is not needed to draw people in. Barcode CLASH does not follow the codes and conventions of magazines, as it’s positioned the barcode near the top right corner, instead of the bottom right corner. But it does follow the codes and conventions in terms of displaying the issue information and price in the same place. List of bands/ artists By displaying a list of bands/ artists at the side, with a brief inclusion of information, is following the codes and conventions of a music magazine. However, it’s also unconventional, as they’ve included a further list of bands/artists running along the bottom. This has been done to try and draw the audience in, as they may like the bands featured and therefore would want to read it Audience I think this magazine targets and audience of 30+, who are of a high social status. I think this because the magazine has a neat, sophisticated appearance. Also, magazines that wish to attract the younger market usually use more colour, images, freebies and decorative fonts.
5. Masthead The font used in this magazine is quite decorative, as it curvy and consists of two different font sizes, which is unconventional of a music magazine because usually one large font is used. The white colour of the masthead really stands against the black background, drawing you in. Also, by using a combination of black and white it really fits in with the ‘classic’ theme, also it compliments the black and white photo used. Freebies CLASSIC ROCK has made freebies a big part of this front cover, which could be a desperate attempt to try and tempt people buy it, which could indicate that it doesn’t sell very well. It has included a picture of the CD included in the magazine, which I find overpowers the main image, as it’s big and colourful, and it’s the thing that catches your eye first. This doesn’t follow the codes and conventions of a music magazine, as usually the main image is the focal point of the magazine. Main cover image This image is obviously of two members from AC/DC, as the band’s iconic logo has been used directly underneath the main image. This image follows the codes and conventions of a music magazine, as it shows the band members playing a guitar and using a microphone, which shows that it has been taken at a gig, and therefore could mean that the main article inside could feature information about gigs AC/DC played. Text The colour of the text includes, dark yellow, white and black, which are all neutral colours which compliment each other. The dark yellow especially stands out against the black background. A range of font and sizes have been used for the text, which makes it more attractive, and follows the codes and conventions of a music magazine because use of decorative text makes the magazine look more exciting. This cover features quite a bit of text, but it still looks crowded as a lot of the cover has been taken up by the image a the included CD. List of bands/artists By displaying a list of bands/ artists at the side, with a brief inclusion of information, is following the codes and conventions of a music magazine. Audience The audience of this magazine is probably people aged 30 – 50, as they are the generation that would have listened to classic rock. However, it may also attract those in the younger generation who appreciate this genre of music. Barcode This barcode follows the codes and conventions of a magazine because it’s located at the bottom right corner, and the issue information and price is included with it.
6. Masthead You get the impression that this magazine is called ‘dazed’, as a big, bold font has been used, however when you look closer the words ‘& confused’ run sideways along it, which is unconventional of a magazine as usually the same big font is used. The way the masthead fades is very unusual and artistic and therefore draws you in. Also, it’s placed over the main image, but this isn’t highly noticeable as it fades into the image. Text The text consists only of red and black, which really stand out against the pale grey background. The font used is the same for all of the text, and is fairly decorative. The fact that the text has been placed running down the left side doesn’t follow the codes and conventions of a magazine. This could be annoying for readers as it’s quite hard to read. However, it does draw you in because it’s quite an unusual thing to do. Main cover image This picture if of Beth Ditto, and therefore you assume the main article would be about her. But when you look at the large headline directly below that says ‘kiss this!’ and then features a bit of text that says ‘the unstoppable rise of The Gossip’, and therefore shows you that it’s actually about the band she’s in – The Gossip. This is unconventional because usually the name of the band/artist shown as the main image is placed underneath the image and is the second largest bit of text on the cover. The phrase ‘kiss this!’ relates to the lips placed on and around Beth Ditto, which really draws you in along with the combination of her pale complexion, jet black hair and dramatic make-up. Also, she is looking straight on into the camera, so it looks like she is looking directly at you. Barcode This magazine doesn’t even appear to have a barcode, it just look like text – maybe the issue information and price. Therefore, the barcode could be at the back. This doesn’t follow the codes and conventions of a magazine. Audience I think the audience of this magazine is mainly females aged 18 – 25, as it uses a lot of feminine, decorative text, which also usually is used to attract the younger generation. Also, I think this magazine attracts people who are interested in art and design, as the front cover’s of Dazed & Confused usually include strange, artistic main cover images.
7. Masthead The font used is big, and bold, and the use of white text against the black box it’s in makes it stands out even more. The font used has a really boisterous, rebellious feel to it, as it looks like it’s been shattered, and therefore has a more, grungier, edgier look to it. This masthead follows the codes and conventions because it makes up the whole width of the top, in order to make it bigger and stand out more. Also, it’s in front of the main image, showing it’s importance. Main cover image This photo of Jared Leto fits in with the rebellious, grundgey feeling of this magazine, as he’s striking an aggressive pose and is punching his palm. Also, the lighting used accentuates shadows and he’s wearing a black shirt, making him look more menacing. It’s clear that the main article would be about 30 Seconds to Mars (especially front man Jared Leto) as it the text is the second largest and is directly underneath the cover images. Also, it features the band’s logo and includes the words ‘Jared Leto’s dark side exposed’, which also relates that he is wearing dark clothes and looks quite threatening. Text The text includes red and white writing with a black outline, which makes it looks bolder. Apart from the masthead, the same, plain bold text is used throughout, which makes it stand out more. Also, a lot of the time the text is placed in red or white boxes, making it stand out. Overall, the text is very masculine, which shows that it mainly appeals to men. Other images Small images surround the main cover image, making it more interesting and stand out more. It is quite conventional for a magazine to feature one or two small images, but this magazine features 5, which doesn’t really follow the codes and conventions. Also, it makes the magazine look more crowded, which could also create the impression that the magazine will be jam-packed with pictures and information. Barcode This barcode follows the codes and conventions of a magazine because it’s located at the bottom right corner, and the issue information and price is included with it. List of bands/artists By displaying a list of bands/ artists at the side, with a brief inclusion of information, is following the codes and conventions of a music magazine. Audience This magazine is obviously trying to appeal to a young, male audience who are interested in rock music. This is clear because the magazine has a very aggressive, grundgey feeling to it due, to the type of text used and the masculine colours. Buzz Word The word ‘Plus!’ is a buzz word, and is usually in capital letters/has bold, bright text/ in a text box, and is used to capture your attention.
8. Masthead The font used it quite decorative, as it’s curly. The colour used is bright pink, which makes it really stand out and grab your attention. Also, neon colours are heavily associated with the clubbing scene. Overall, I think this masthead is very feminine. Freebies By mixmag including freebies in their magazine they are tempting their audience to but the magazine. It has made freebies a big part of the magazine, by including a picture on the left corner of the free CD that would be included. However, this image draws your attention away from the front cover image, as it’s quite big and it’s more colourful Main cover Image The lighting is very bright, and therefore creates a happy mood. The woman is wearing bright clothes with clashing colours, making her stand out more and it fits in the DJ/clubber image. This photo follows the codes and conventions because it shows the woman with decking equipment, but it’s obviously not from a live show, as due to her pose and the setting, it’s clearly from a staged photo shoot. This is conventional because a lot of cover images are taken from a shoot, and by including musical equipment it relates to the genre of the magazine. The headline ‘Why celebrity DJs must be stopped!’ relates to the cover image because the woman has been made up to look like a stereotypical celebrity (lots of make-up, stylish, holding a dog in a handbag). Text Apart from the masthead and main headline, all of the text has the same, plain square font. Most of the text is coloured in either black or bright pink, which compliments the masthead and really stands out against the white background. Audience I think the target audience for mixmag is young adults, mainly female, aged 18-25. I think this because the magazine is full of bright colours and images, which are used to attract younger audiences. Obviously, this is a magazine for DJ/clubbers, and it makes it clear by including appropriate articles and bight, neon colours Featured articles A list of featured articles have been placed on the right side. This follows the codes and conventions. This technique is used to attract readers attention to other articles, but without making it look too crowded by including a related image. Buzz word The word ‘Plus!’ is a buzz word, and is usually in capital letters/has bold, bright text/ in a text box, and is used to capture your attention. Barcode This barcode follows the codes and conventions of a magazine because it’s located at the bottom right corner, and the issue information and price is included with it.
9. Masthead It consists of black, red and white, which are colours that are commonly put together in order for them to stand out. The fact that NME has been put into a black box, makes it stand out even more. The masthead has been placed at the top left corner, which doesn’t follow the codes and convention, because usually the masthead is placed in the very centre. Main cover image In this photo, the band members are all looking directly forward, making it look as if they’re looking at you. Also, the woman in the middle is reaching out, as if she’s trying to connect with you, which tempts readers into buying the magazine. It is clear that this band is called ‘yeah yeahyeahs’, the band’s logo has been placed next to the main cover image, along with the main headline. Barcode This barcode follows the codes and conventions of a magazine because it’s located at the bottom right corner, and the issue information and price is included with it. Text The text consists of white, black and yellow, which when put together, make the magazine really stand out. Also, they are very masculine colours. Most of the text has the same, plain square text, apart from the ‘yeah yeahyeahs’ and ‘Nirvana band logo, and the masthead. In one case where it says ‘inside Fall out Boy’s emo empire’ that band name ‘fall out boy’ has been highlighted in yellow, making it grab your attention. Audience I think the audience this magazine wishes to attract young males , as the colour scheme is very masculine. Also, the text consists of square, plain fonts, and the text that that says ‘Yeah yeahyeahs’ consists of a font that is particularly masculine , as it looks quite grundgey. Also, rock music is heavily related to males.
10. Masthead This masthead follows the codes and conventions because it fills up the whole top of the cover. However it doesn’t follow them by consisting of two fonts. This masthead stands out because it’s a white colour, which stands out against the black background. Freebies By offering freebies in this issue is tempting the audience into buying it. If they weren’t too interested in the content of this issue, the freebie would persuade them further into buying it. Text By placing the text only on the right side is not following the codes and conventions, as usually the text is placed all around the main image. The text consists of white and red, which really stands out against the black/ dark blue background. Main cover image This image follows the codes and conventions of a music magazine as the picture looks as if it’s been taken during a live show. It also follows the codes and conventions of the opera genre, as the actress/opera singer is dressed in an extravagant, historical costume. Barcode This barcode follows the codes and conventions of a magazine because it’s located at the bottom right corner, and the issue information and price is included with it. Audience Obviously, this magazine targets people interested in opera music, and therefore is heavily associated with the older generation. It’s clear that this magazine targets the older generation, as no glamourous photos, bright colours or decorative text has been used, which is what magazines that want to target a younger audience do. Also, I think it targets both men and women, as there are no features that are heavily associated with a specific gender.
11. Masthead This masthead doesn’t follow the codes and conventions because it’s placed not only at the side of the cover, but underneath the main headline. I think this is a disadvantage, as the main headline overpowers the masthead, also if this magazine was in a magazine rack, you wouldn’t be able to see its name. However, by using a white colour for it and placing it in a red text box makes it stand out against the black and white colour scheme. Text I like the font used for the text looks like it’s been hand written, as it is more unique and makes it looks more young and fun. The red, white and black colour scheme that has been used is a common colour scheme, probably because it makes things stand out a lot. Also, I like the way it’s been arrange to make it look quirky, especially the way it’s been presented at the bottom right corner. However, I think the fact that a lot of text has been used and that it’s been placed quite close together makes it quite overwhelming, hard to read, and makes the cover look too crowded. Main cover image This follows the codes and conventions as it’s positioned in the centre of the cover and the text surrounds it. Also, the black and white colours the man is wearing matches the black and white colour scheme. List of bands/artists By displaying a list of bands/ artists at the side, with a brief inclusion of information, is following the codes and conventions of a music magazine. Shapes By including decorative, colourful shapes with text in really draws you in and makes it stands out Audience I think the audience of this magazine is fun, young people of both genders who are interested in a range of bands/artists (but mainly recent and upcoming). Lots of decorative shapes and fonts have been used and it features bands from U2 to Florence and the Machine
12. Masthead This masthead follows the codes and conventions because it’s the largest text of the cover, and it stretches across the whole of the top. It’s quite masculine, as it’s in a neutral colour and has a plain, square font. Main cover image This image follows the codes and conventions because it takes up the majority of the space and it’s in the very centre with the text placed around it. The fact that Fergie is wearing black an white and has blue nail varnish on, matches with the colour scheme. Blender magazine is known for featuring provocative images of female celebrities as their main cover image, which shows that they are targeting men to purchase their magazine. Text The font used for the text is plain and square, and consists of a light brown, blue and black. Therefore, the text is very masculine. There is very little text, which makes the cover look spacious, making the masthead and main cover image stand out the most. Audience The target audience is obviously men, as no decorative, colourful text has been used, instead it’s plain square, and consists of masculine colours. Also, by featuring a suggestive image of Fergie as their main cover image, it’s trying to attract men’s attention
13. Masthead This masthead follows codes an conventions because it’s placed behind the main cover image. However, quite a lot of the masthead has been covered by the main image, which shows that the masthead is so iconic, that showing the whole thing is not needed. It consists of three colours (blue, black and white), which matches the colour scheme of the other text. By using a curly, decorative text it makes it stand out more. Main cover image This image follows the codes and conventions because it’s large and takes up most of the space. I like the way it has matched the colour of Brad Pitt’s clothes and eyes with the colour scheme of the front cover, which makes it more neutral and easier on the eyes, as opposed to consisting of a range of bright colours. Audience This magazines targets a mass market, as it covers a range of topics (mainly music) and features a range of genres for those topics (e.g. Covers film genres from horror to comedy. Covers music genres from heavy metal to pop). This is a very diverse magazine that appeals to a large age range (I'd say 15 and above), both genders and any social class. Buzz word The word ‘Plus!’ is a buzz word, and is usually in capital letters/has bold, bright text/ in a text box, and is used to capture your attention. Text I like the way this magazine has used a range of font sizes, which makes it more interesting. The colours used are quite masculine and is bold.
15. Title This follows the codes and conventions because the contents title is usually placed at the top corner of the page, and is the biggest text. Page listings By splitting the page listings into categories and listing them downwards follows the codes and conventions of a magazine. This makes it easy to find a specific page, as it goes down in a numerical order. Also, in order to make it easier for the reader to find an article about a specific artist, they are titled with that band’s/artist’s name, which follows the codes and conventions of a music magazine. Main article The main article, that is usually featured on the front cover as a main image, also dominates the contents page by having the largest image and one of the largest texts. Also, it features a brief description about the article. Therefore, it follows the codes and conventions. Featured articles By featuring a small photo of a band/artist with a brief description, along with the page number follows the codes and conventions of a magazine. Also, they’re usually glamourous shots, not usually photos from a gig, and therefore looks like a CD cover. Colour scheme The colour scheme mainly consists of bright, acidy colours, which draws your eye to look at something Featured articles By having more featured articles running along the bottom challenges conventions because usually this space is filled with subscription information
16. Page Listings By splitting the page listings into categories and listing them downwards follows the codes and conventions of a magazine. This makes it easy to find a specific page, as it goes down in a numerical order. The page listings are quite hard to read, as the fonts size is quite small, which has probably been done because this magazine has a lot of pages. The titles of the pages haven’t been named using an artist’s/band’s name, but instead uses a very brief description for a title, which challenges conventions Title and other text The contents title is quite small, but still stands out because it’s in red and has a grundgey font. However, the text above it that says ’70 March 2005’, overpowers the title, because the number ’70’ is much larger than it. Also, at the top right corner it has the magazine’s name ‘rock sound’, along with the subtitle ‘music with attitude’, which challenges conventions because usually the magazine’s logo isn’t such a big part of the contents page. Main article I assume this image represents the main article, as it’s the biggest image on the contents page, however, the images of featured articles are of similar size, so it’s hard to tell. Also, it doesn’t feature a brief description of the article, and therefore it goes against the codes and conventions. Colour Scheme The colours used for this contents page is red, white and black, which is a very popular colour scheme for magazines, particularly ones that want to attract a male audience Featured articles By having small images of a band/artists relating to featured articles in the magazine along with the page number, follows the codes and conventions. This also keeps with the rebellious look that comes with the rock n’ roll image, as the images loo as if they have been torn on the side
17. Page listings These page listings challenge the codes and conventions a lot, as they spread out across the whole page, and include quite a long description for each page. Also, they have been categorised in sections that say ‘the front’, ‘the back’, ‘the fashion’ and ‘this month on dazeddigital.com’, whereas usually they’re categorised , for example, in terms of regulars and features, not their locations in the magazine. I think the page listing have been presented in quite a boring way, that is also hard to read because their is too much text and it’s quite small and close together. Title This titles challenges codes and conventions because instead of saying ‘contents’ that most magazines do, it just includes the magazine’s logo at the top. Main image There is only one image, which is the one that takes up the whole background. This heavily challenges the codes and conventions because usually a magazine features one main image which represents the main article (usually featured on the front cover as well), plus smaller images for featured articles. Whereas, this contents page features one large image used as a background that doesn’t seem to relate to anything and looks nothing more than a glamorous shot Colour Scheme I don’t think their is a set colour scheme, as there’s just the colours that are in the main (and only) image, and the black and white colours of the page listings
18. Editorial The editor’s note is always at the top left corner of the contents page of Kerrang magazine, which follows conventions as magazine’s usually feature an editorial addressing the reader. In this editorial, he editor talks about what’s in this issue , tempting the reader to look at the features. The mode of address is quite informal and chatty, as if he’s speaking to you as if he knows you personally, as a friend. This helps the reader form a bond with the magazine and makes them feel at ease. Title This follows the codes and conventions because the contents title is usually placed at the top corner of the page, and is the biggest text. And underneath it is a lure that is used to grab the reader’s attention Page Listings By placing the page listings at the right side of the page challenges the codes and conventions a bit, as usually the page listings are at the left side. However it also follows conventions because they’re split into categories and are listed downwards. Main article It’s clear which is the main article, as it’s the biggest image of the contents page, and it draws you in the most. Also, it features a brief description, and therefore follows codes and conventions Colour scheme Kerrang stick to a house style for their magazine, by using a colour scheme of yellow and black Featured articles By featuring a small photo of a band/artist with a brief description, along with the page number follows the codes and conventions of a magazine. Also, it features a range of shots from photo shoots and shots from live gigs, which shows the reader that there will be information on live gigs
19. Title The contents title is placed on the top corner of the page and it stands out, and therefore follows the codes and conventions Main article This is obviously the image for the main article, as it’s the biggest part of the contents page, which follows codes and conventions. Also, it’s of a man performing at a live gig, therefore shows the reader that information about gigs and shows will be featured. Featured articles This follows conventions because a small image for a related article with a page number has been featured. However only one small image has been featured, whereas in most magazines, quite a few are featured. Page Listings By placing the page listings at the right side of the page challenges the codes and conventions a bit, as usually the page listings are at the left side. It also challenges conventions by not splitting the listings into categories. Colour scheme The colour scheme for the text is pink, yellow, white and black, and when put together, are bright colours, which links in with the fact that bright colours are associated with DJ/clubbing magazines Extra information This added information is about the free CD that came with this issue. This follows the codes and conventions because magazine usually feature information about the freebie(s)
20. Title This title challenges the codes and conventions as it says ‘NME this week’ as opposed to ‘contents’. Main image This challenges the codes and conventions because it doesn’t appear to be an image related an article, but appears to be a short article itself. This takes up a large amount of space, therefore leaving no room for small images with page numbers relating to featured articles. I don’t think this is very good as it takes up too much space. Page Listings By placing the page listings at the right side of the page challenges the codes and conventions a bit, as usually the page listings are at the left side. However it also follows conventions because they’re split into categories and are listed downwards. Band Index Although having a band index in the contents page, let alone in a magazine, challenges conventions, I think this is a really good idea, as readers can look up their favourite bands in order to find which page they are feature d on Colour Scheme The colours used for this contents page is red, white and black, which is a very popular colour scheme for magazines, particularly ones that want to attract a male audience Subscriptions This follows the codes and conventions because it’s tempting the reader into subscribing to the magazine and showing they will save money by doing so
21. Title The contents title is placed on the top corner of the page and it stands out, and therefore follows the codes and conventions Main article It’s clear that this is the main article, as a large image has been included, which follows the codes and conventions. However, as the image is so large, it takes up most of the room, and therefore there is no space for smaller images with page numbers, which is commonly used in magazines Page Listings By splitting the page listings into categories and listing them downwards follows the codes and conventions of a magazine. Review section Q Magazine feature a review section on their contents page, giving a brief description and page number of the review. I haven’t seen any magazines so far that have this feature, as they usually have one section near the back of the magazine for reviews, which I think is better than having reviews dotted all around the magazine Colour Scheme The colours used for this contents page is red, white and black, which is a very popular colour scheme for magazines, particularly ones that want to attract a male audience
22. Title This title challenges codes and conventions because instead of saying ‘contents’ is has the ‘spin’ magazine logo as the title Lure This quote by Duffy lures the reader in. Also, it relates to the main image Main Image The main image is the only image on the contents page. It’s a glamorous shot of Duffy throwing a pink guitar, which relates to the music aspect of the magazine. I find that this image challenges conventions because it takes up the whole of the contents page, and it looks like it belongs more on a front cover. Page Listings The page listings keep within the codes and conventions because it is done listing downwards and is placed on the left side. However, it also challenges them because it’s not categorised. Colour Scheme The colour scheme is quite masculine, as it consists of dark blue, grey and black. However, by having Duffy on the front cover looking very feminine with a pink guitar, big hair and lots of make-up tones it down ‘On the cover’ By featuring a box that explains what’s on the cover challenges the conventions of a music magazine, as it’s something you’d be more likely to see on a fashion magazine
23. Title The contents title is placed on the top corner of the page and it stands out, and therefore follows the codes and conventions Page Listings By placing the page listings at the right side of the page challenges the codes and conventions a bit, as usually the page listings are at the left side. Also, it isn’t split into categories. Colour scheme The colour scheme consists mainly of white, black and red, with a hint of pink. Usually, this is quite a masculine set of colour, but with the pink and feminine aspects (curly font, Katy Perry ) it makes it appeal to both genders Main Image It’s obvious that the main article will be about Katy Perry, as her picture fills up the majority of the contents page. The red in her skirt and on the bow up mushroom really stand out against the muted grey background, which really draws you in. By having the main image fill the whole contents page (especially one as sparse as the one used for this issue) challenges conventions because usually contents pages are filled with a range of big and small images with attached page number. Lure This quote lure’s the reader in and makes them more interested to read the main article about Katy Perry
24. Title This challenges conventions because instead of saying ‘contents’ is has the Rolling Stone initials, complete with a sell line beneath it. Main image This photo follows conventions as it’s clearly one of the main articles, as it’s the largest image on the page and is therefore the first thing to catch your attention. It also features a brief description of the article and a page number for if the reader wants to read further. This is obvious an old photo, as it’s grainy and is in black and white, therefore shows that the Rolling tone magazine features article about things new and old, and is able to target a wider audience. Featured article By including a small image relating to an article along with the page number follows the codes and conventions. Also, in this particular image appears to be Beyonce singing live, therefore implying that their will be information on gigs and live shows. Also by featuring a catchy, rhyming headline, it draws the reader in more. Page Listings By placing the page listings on the left side of the page follows codes and conventions. However, it challenges them slightly by not categorising them. Colour Scheme This contents page mainly consists of black and white, probably to match the old photo featured as the main image. There are hints of colour towards the left side, which brightens it up more. Cover Information By featuring cover information it challenges codes an conventions of a music magazine, as that’s usually a feature found in a fashion magazine
26. Picture This is a long shot of the band members of Kids in Glass Houses jumping into the air, which makes the band look fun and exciting, therefore attracting readers to the article. The lighting is bright, making the blue sky look more vibrant and stand out. All the band members are dressed quite casually, and aren’t wearing stereotypical outfits for a rock band (e.g. Leather jacket), therefore the reader can relate to them. By using a large picture that spans across both pages follow the codes and conventions. I think it’s better to place the text on the right side, as it flows better to the next page. Quote This quote lures the reader in as it’s quite isolated at the top left corner. Also, by putting it in a white textbox against a blue background makes it stand out. Title Apart from the picture, the title stands out the most, as large, bold font is used. Also, the title is coloured in white, which stands out a lot against the blue background. Text By aligning the text to go around the image (e.g. By the one guys leg) follows the codes and conventions because it makes it look more interesting . There is very little text for two pages, which is typical for a double page spread as the concentration is more on the title and image. Also, a drop-cap is used, which heavily follows conventions. Colour Scheme The main colours used are blue and white, which when put together, make the page stand out.
27. Title The word ‘slave’ stands out the most, as it’s the biggest text on the page. However, it would stand out even more if the text was bolder. Picture This picture spans about ¾ across the double page spread, which challenges the conventions a bit because usually the picture takes up the whole of the two pages. The picture is in black and white, and therefore gives thee picture more contrast and accentuates the lighting, making it stand out. By putting the photo in black and white is gives it quite an old look, therefore keeping in the with theme of the magazine, which is Classic Rock. Colour Scheme The colour scheme is black and white, which keeps in with the classic rock theme. Text By placing the text to the far left or right (in this case left) follows the conventions, as most of the room is taking up by the picture, which usually spans across the whole two pages. This picture doesn’t span across the whole two pages, therefore leaving a small space on the left for the small amount of text. By not having much text works out well, because if a large picture was included along with a large amount of text, the double page spread would look too crowded. Also, a drop-cap is used, which is something pretty much all magazines use.
28. Text There is no title, only what appears to be a quote running down the side of the page. This challenges conventions because there is no title or information about what the article is about. I don’t like this, because unless you’re a big band of the band pictured , you won’t really know who and what it’s about. Colour Scheme The colour scheme is mainly black and white, which is quite basic and doesn’t really stand out much or grab your attention. Picture This picture follows conventions because it takes up the majority of the two pages, and therefore draws you in. The 3 people in the picture are wearing black, which stands out against their pale skin and the white background. It also draws you in because they are wearing strange clothing with feathers on, therefore you want to read about them because judging by the way they are dressed, you would assume that they would be quite interesting. Also, the high contrast in lighting will also grab your attention.
29. Buzz word By adding a decorative textbox saying ‘world exclusive’ draws the reader in. Feature By adding a feature about their best tracks is a good idea, because it promotes their new album well. Also, by putting this feature in a black and white textbox with black writing keeps in with the colour scheme. Title The title consists of red and white, and therefore it stands out against the black background. This colour combination is very common, and it also gives the double page spread a grundgey atmosphere. Colour Scheme The colour scheme is red, white and black, and therefore gives off a grundgey, masculine feel. Main image This main image is of front-man, Gerard Way, who appears to be performing live or in a studio, and therefore relates to the smaller images. The image has been done in sepia, probably to brighten up the double page spread slightly as there would be too much black and white, whilst keeping it quite neutral and toned down. Text There is very little text, and therefore follows codes and conventions in order to stop the double page spread from looking to crowded. There’s quite a lot of pictures, so if there was more text it would be a bit over whelming. Also, it features a drop-cap, which is heavily following codes and conventions. Featured images These smaller images relate to the large main image, as it shows the band producing their music. Also, it’s in sepia. This challenges conventions because usually for a double page spread, only one large image is used.
30. Main image This image spans across the whole of the two pages, which makes it the think to first catch your eye, and therefore follows codes and conventions. By putting the image in black and white it makes the title stand out more. If the image was in colour, it would be a bit too bright and overwhelming. The rapper, Dizzee Rascal, is striking an intimidating pose and is wearing a big watch, flat cap and a heavy chain necklace, and therefore fits in with the stereotypical rapper image. Title The title is white, which stands out against the green. Apart from the main image, the title is the one other thing on the double page spread that catches your eye the most, and therefore follows codes and conventions. The title is on top of a green splodge, which looks like spray paint used for graffiti, and therefore fits in with the rapper/gangster image. Colour Scheme The colour scheme is black and white and green. I think this works really well, as the acid green colour really stands out against the black and white. Text The only text featured on this double page spread is the title, sub-heading and small text (possibly a brief description of the artist). This sort of challenges conventions because although double page spread have little amount of writing on them, they don’t usually have as small of an amount as this one.
31. Festivals By placing this feature at the top corner it’s advertising the fact that this band are playing at Reading and Leeds festival, and also promotes the festivals too. Although this is a very small feature of the double page spread, it’s stands out due to the vibrant yellow, red and black combination. Title The title is very large and decorative, which follows codes and conventions. Also, the combination of plain, square text and curly text draws you in. Also, it’s quite gimmicky, as it says ‘The Joshua Code’ which relates to ‘The Da Vinci Code’. Main Image This image only takes up one of the two pages, which challenges conventions , as usually the main image spans across both pages. The band are wearing very bland, casual clothes, and therefore they don’t look like a rock band at all. They are all clearly posed, as they are all looking straight into the camera. Text There are 3 small columns of text, which is the average for a double page spread and therefore follows codes and conventions. However, it challenges it a bit because two drop-caps are used. Colour Scheme The colour scheme is black, white and grey, which when put together don’t stand out very much and look quite boring. Usually, the colour scheme is done in a way to catch the reader’s eye. However, by using this dull colour scheme, it makes the main image stand out more.
32. Title The title has been cleverly placed in the darkest part of the picture and has been coloured white, therefore it stands out and isn’t drowned out by the busy photo. Colour Scheme I don’t think this double page spread has a specific colour scheme, as the main picture consists of various colours Main Picture This picture is the only picture and it spans across the whole double page spread, and therefore follows codes and conventions. This is very full as it has lots of people in it, which makes it hard to focus on the band, and so it challenges conventions because usually the main picture is from a photo shoot and is quite sparse. This is a good photo for the band though, as it shows they get involved with their fans during gigs, and that they are fun and exciting. Text There is very little text, which although double page spreads don’t usually have a lot of text, this has hardly any, and therefore challenges conventions. The text is white, and matches the title. Also, if any other colour had been used, it would be hard to read against the background.
33. Magazine logo The magazine logo has been featured on the double page spread, and therefore challenges conventions because magazine’s don’t usually include this on double page spreads. Title This appears to be the title, as it’s the biggest text on the double page spread. However, this challenges conventions because the title usually have text underneath it. Text It’s clear that this article is about The White Stripes, which I think is quite a good thing to make obvious, as in the picture it’s unclear who it is. The text has been put in a blue textbox, which has been done so it stands out. However, it would’ve looked better if it was a colour that suited the colour scheme more (e.g. Orange). There is not much text at all, and therefore challenges conventions because double page spreads usually have a bit of text, but not so much so that it looks too crowded. Main image The main image spans across the whole of the double page spread, and therefore follows codes and conventions. The image is the front man/guitarist playing his guitar at what appears to be a gig, due to the spot light behind him. This implies that the article will feature information about gigs. Colour Scheme The main colour is orange, which is used in some of the text and the front man’s guitar strap. Also, blue has been used for the textbox, but it doesn’t compliment the rest of the colours.
34. Title By using a bold, bubbly text, it makes the text look feminine, which relates to the title ‘Girl Girl’. However, it contrasts with the masculine boxing pose Katy Perry is doing. Colour Scheme The colour scheme is black and white, which I think looks classy, and tends to draw your attention if the rest of the magazine is quite colourful. Text This is quite a lot of text for a double page spread, but not enough to crowd it, therefore keeps in with the codes and conventions. But it challenges conventions because it doesn’t have a drop-cap. Main Image This is a picture from a photo shoot, which is quite common for a double page spread. It only takes up one page of the two pages, which challenges conventions because usually the photo spans across both pages. However, I think this has been done because a lot of text is on the other page. I like the contrast in this image because even though Katy Perry is wearing feminine clothing, classy styled hair complete with a bow and is wearing make-up, she is striking a masculine pose. Which implies that although she’s feminine she’s also tough.
35. Title You can only just see the title, which is the name of the band (U2), which challenges conventions because usually the title is a big part of a double page spread in order to draw the reader in. Text This text explains what the photos are of and who they are of, with follows codes and conventions. Text This is an average amount of text for a double page spread, as it’s just enough to not crowd it. Apart from the photos, the bright red drop-cap catches your eye, which I think should’ve been used for the title instead. Main Images There are 3 main images featured, which blend into each other as the all have similar lighting and are in black and white. Also, U2 are an older band and therefore appeal to more of the older generation, which is why the photos have been put in black and white. Whereas, younger bands try and appeal to the younger generation by using vibrant colours.
