This document analyzes the layout and design of a magazine cover. It discusses several key elements of the cover including the masthead at the top in pink, the dominant main image of Shayne in the center in a white outfit, and the header below the masthead also promoting Shayne. Additional elements covered include the left third containing a secondary cover line, the bright yellow strap line at the top with a unique selling point, and barcode and issue information at a smaller ratio at the bottom. The overall analysis suggests the cover follows conventions to attract its target audience of young females to the main attraction of Shayne from the X Factor.

1. Rule of thirds; the magazine
does not seem to follow the
typical conventions of the rule
of thirds. However, the main
image of 'Shayne' seems to be
dominant which assures the
target audience that this is the
main attraction of the front
cover.
Masthead; This is positioned near the
top of the page. The colour of the title is
two shades of pink which denotes that
the target audience is females,
specifically young females. The outline
of the title is white which makes it seem
3D and as if it is coming out of the
page. This will appear striking to the
target audience and subsequently,
making them pick up the magazine.
Main Image; the main image is of
'Shayne' from the X factor. This is
highlighted through the way in which
the caption in the picture matches the
colour and style of the title, connoting
that this is the main attraction of the
front cover. This is also the biggest
image on the page, on a white
background with a black outfit which
makes the model stand out on the
page, drawing the reader in.
The header; The heading
'Shayne X factor' is the next
main title after 'Smash hits'
which is clearly indicated by
it's position and size. The
heading is underneath the
masthead, drawing the
readers' eyes from the
masthead to this heading.
The colour and style matches
the masthead also, showing
that this is the main heading.
Left third; This is typically
for the main cover lines so
that they stand out when
on the shops' shelf.
However, the main cover
line is not situated here.
But, there is another cover
line on the left third that
will appeal to the target
audience so this could be
deliberately done so that
the audience will pick up
the magazine.
Footer/strap line; The strap line at the top of page is in bright yellow which
contrasts to the rest of the magazine. The strap line typically intrigues the target
audience as they will want to know what else is in the magazine. The use of the
'10 hot posters' is an example of one of the unique selling points on this front
cover magazine as young females are interested in this.
Barcode/Date/Issue number; These conventions of the front
cover of a magazine are less significant which is why they are
presented as a small ratio compared to the other parts of the
front cover. However, the barcode must be clearly shown as
this is most definitely important when buying any magazine.