Sophie Thompson reflects on her analysis of music magazines to inform the design of her own magazine. She learned that large images of featured artists draw in readers, and will use a simple, image-focused design. Research showed alternative/indie music is most popular, so she will focus on that genre. A weekly format was preferred by respondents to help decide the magazine's frequency. The flat plan examples provided guidance on popular layouts that she will loosely follow.

1. ReflectionSophie Thompson

2. Reflection On Magazine AnalysisFrom the front cover magazine analysis, I learnt that large images of the featured band are a popular way of drawing in and interesting the audience. I will use this in my own magazine. Personally, I like the magazines that seem to go by: “less is more”, therefore this is what I shall use on my own magazine. I think it makes the image stand out and concentrates on the featured band. It is simple yet effective. My contents page analysis showed me that the layout is crucial. I am using the idea used by many of my examples, of having an image of the featured musician as the image. I am also going to have “Features” and “Every Month”, as done by Q.

3. The analysis on the double page spreads gave me some useful information on how it should be laid out. Having two large images of the featured artist seems popular, and I will possibly use this in my own magazine.

4. Reflection On QuestionnaireThe research I got on my questionnaire was very useful in helping me understand my target audience. It showed me that the alternative/indie genre is most popular among my audience, and I have decided that to reach the most amount of people, this is the genre I will use in my magazine. The feedback showing that weekly magazines are most popular was also helpful and helped me come to the decision that this is what my magazine shall be.Answers for the other questions also helped, giving me some feedback on what should be included in the magazine.

5. Reflection On Flat PlanThe flat plan gave me some help with designing my own magazine. I will base it loosely on the examples I have given, as they are from popular magazines. Both my examples use a similar layout which shows this is popular.