screenshot of my results from my target market questionnaire

answer from questionnaire... more to come

Here is a result for a question from my questionnaire which my target market did.

trying to get a jumping image for my double page spread wasn't the easiest!

a number of images for preliminary task

 These are three of many of my images which i collected for my preliminary task to use on both my front cover and contents page. As you can see on the bottom two photos I have taken them top half up as that is a convention of a front cover.

On the second image I got the name of the school in the background just to add an extra feature to the magazine. This also makes it more conventional as it shows the reader exactly which school it comes from before even having to read the name of the magazine.

trying to gather images for my front cover, contents page and double page spread

some images which I gathered for my first draft of my magazine

contents page preliminary task

This is my contents page of my preliminary task which was basically to give me an idea of what it is like to create a magazine before going on the create my music magazine. It was good practice and gave me ideas of the strong starting points and the use of images etc.

front cover - Preliminary task

This is the front cover of my school magazine which we did before we went forward with our music magazine.

contents page analysis

Contents page analysis- media studies

Contents page 1

The first contents page which I am going to analyse is from the magazine ‘Q’. The first feature which instantly attracts the readers’ attention is the issue number. It is placed in the top third of the page on a red background, using whit font, allowing it to contrast with the red in order to fully stand out.

Below that is a range of images which link to the different text which is included within the magazine. Each of the images also includes a number, telling the reader which page the information is on which belongs with the picture. All of the images are similar colour (hazy and dark). The purpose of this is to ensure that the pictures contrast well with the red within the house style in order to stand out to the reader. This will be beneficial for ‘Q’ in order for the magazine to be successful. There is one main image which is the image to the left hand side as that it the biggest image (the size of three put together). It also has a weird look which is associated with indie/rock bands and album covers.

At the top right of the page is a decreased image of the next issue which is going to be released after this one. This is professional as it persuades the reader into wanting to get the next magazine. It is again a continuous house style for all of the magazines. Below this image is all of the page numbers, followed by the feature name and then a brief description of what is going to be on each page. The page number and feature name is in the same bold, modern font. A red block line then divides the page number and feature name from the brief description. The purpose of this is to show a clear divide which is beneficial to the reader when the reader comes to reading it but also shows a continuous house style. The brief description is in a smaller font and isn’t bold. The purpose of this is the page number and the feature name needs to be the most eye catching as that will then intrigue the reader into reading the description anyway. Also, the description needs to be smaller to ensure it all fits onto the page. The purpose of this layout is also to keep the contents page in an organized format.

The ‘Q review’ is a pull quote which has been taken from the article in order to give the reader an idea of the tone and the feature. It basically has more information than the brief description. The contents page sticks to the convention of having the page in rule of thirds.

I like the way the images are placed on one side on the other side, it makes it look tidy and organized. It shoes a clear guidance and looks professional. I also like how there is an image of the next issue at the top of the page. Placing it at the top of the page will ensure the reader doesn’t mistake it for being just an image rather than the upcoming release.

What I think could be improved is the lack of features within the red banner at the top of the page. I think the text looks out of place and as though there is something missing.

Contents page 2

The second contents page which I’m going to analyse is from the magazine ‘Kerrang’. The aspect which stands out the most is probably the images and then the large image. The large image obviously stands out because it is taking up much of the page. The Masthead stands out due to its black background and bright, contrasting text o top of the black. The colour scheme black, white and yellow links to the house style of Kerrang.

The issue number and date is held below the ‘contents’, the purpose of this is to simply inform/keep the reader up to date with which issue it is and which one they will potentially be purchasing next. It is also a convention of a contents page.

The images give the reader an idea of what is going to be inside the magazine. They also correspond with the page numbers, again, giving a taste of what features it is going to contain.

There is an Editor’s letter which is often a convention of a contents page. It gives a short preview of what the magazine is going to contain and what the purpose it. It also sometimes has a personal insight; it is also often in keeping with the magazine. Behind the image is the Masthead which is usually re-printed onto the contents page, the purpose of this is for upkeep of house style and it is an important feature of the magazine. It is a convention of a contents page and is designed to be fully recognisable in order to stand out from other features on the page.

I like how the page numbers and feature name is a larger text than the brief description. This makes it stand out more rather than if it was all the same size. I also like how there is a Editor’s letter as it adds an interesting feature for the readers entertainment.

What I highly dislike about this contents page is how over-crowded the page is; I think there is way too much text and images. I think there is potentially too many to the point where it pushes the reader away instantly. I also would prefer it if it was laid out differently. I think it looks too muddled up sowing no clear order or organisation.

Contents page 3

The third contents page which I am going to analyse is from the magazine ‘vibe’. Vibe magazine is a hip hop magazine; the contents page makes this obvious by the colours used and the colour of the characters skin. Which stands out the most is the main image which takes up two thirds of the page, starting from the bottom third. The Masthead for the contents page is in white, which contrasts with the black on the top third of the page. The colour scheme which is used is monochromatic as it is black, white, greys etc. This links to the character in the main image as her dress and jewellery are grey/silver. This is effective as it connects well enabling it to be desirable. Her stilettos are a more shiny grey as they are made a main feature. They stand out against the rest of the colours.

The purpose of the contents page is to simply inform the reader of what is going to be inside the magazine. At the top of the page, the white outlined ‘V’ (which stands for vibe which is the name of the magazine) symbolises the shape of the woman’s legs connecting to two together in order to draw the reader in.

The writing to inform the reader of what information is on what page is different line lengths which could symbolise stairs due to the stance in the image. It is in a small font containing bits of bold text for the important information which may intrigue the reader. The text is divided into two different sections being ‘features’ and ‘fashion’. These two titles are in bold to show the two different sections clearly to the reader.

I like the image which is used on the contents page and the how the stance connotes many things on the page and to do with the page. For e.g. the ‘V’ shape with her legs linking to the title of the magazine etc.

Contents page 4

The fourth contents page which I am going to analyse is from the magazine ‘Billboard’. This magazine is a mixture of music containing R&B, chart music and rock/indie. The top third is the most attractive third out of the three. The reason being for this is it has three and a bit images which attracts the readers’ attention instantly. The contents title is in a bold black font which is situated on the ‘No 1’ part on the league on the left side of the page. The colour scheme which is used is blue black and white. The purpose of these colours been used for the house style is they all contrast well together ensuring they all stand out to the reader. It also inks to the colours in the images, for example the blue links to the sky in the first image, the black and white links to the clothes and backgrounds in all four images.  

There is a lot of writing including the page numbers, which are in a bold font, followed by the short text giving brief information of what is going to be on this page. The purpose of the number being bold and the text being normal is that the numbers stand out to the reader so the reader is fully aware of the exact page numbers. There are also events and online exclusives in the bottom third of the page, again, having bold and normal text showing the title followed by the information giving a brief explanation of each topic. This is done to give the reader an idea of what they are potentially going to read into.

The league table to the left of the page is showing the top story’s from this magazine and other magazines, showing how successful this magazine is in the current market.

I like the use of four images as it is a persuasive convention to use in terms of getting the readers’ attention. I also like how they come before the text as it doesn’t rush straight in bombarding the reader with text.

I dislike the amount of text used and the league table makes the page look cluttered. I think the table should be on a separate page with an explanation as to exactly what it is. I think the amount of text would push the reader away from reading it all which potentially means they may not read certain things which are important parts which the magazine wants them to specifically read.

Contents page 5

The final contents which I am going to analyse is from the magazine ‘Mojo’. The genre of this magazine is rock which is exposed through the fonts, colours and images used. The masthead is in a black bold font which is the feature which attention is instantly drawn to over the other features. The purpose of this is to ensure the reader is fully aware of the magazine it is from. However, nowhere does it say that this is a contents page which may leave the reader confused, as well as slacking a convention of a contents page. The colour scheme is black white and red which is shown through the background, titles/text and filled boxes above the images as well as the red within one of the images. There are images around the outside of the page showing a variety of colours; some brightly coloured, sepia and black and white. This is effective as it is giving the reader a variety to look at making it more interesting.

The numbers and titles for each page are in the same bold black text as the ‘Mojo’ however not as big. The brief description follows in a normal font to ensure the title and page number stands out the most for the readers’ benefit as well as being a convention of a contents page. This font is different to the titles just to show that there is a wider variety being used.

I like the layout and use of images on this contents page as it is different yet still meeting conventions of a contents page. I also like the use of two different fonts showing a variety and making it look more interesting and professional. I will adapt this when creating my own contents page. I like how the red filled boxes situated on the images telling the reader which page they are on contrast with every other feature on the page allowing the red to fully stand out.

contents page style model

This is my contents style model which pushed me into wanting to use this layout for my own contents page. i like the divide between the images and the text (how the images are on one side and text on the other). I like the different images which have been chosen in terms of brightness and colour.

front cover style model

This front cover from 'Q' inspired me for my own front cover. I like the colour scheme, fonts and positioning of the main image used. I also think the amount of information used on the front cover is at a professional amount in terms of intriguing the reader.

Q contents page- gathering ideas

This contents page from the magazine 'Q' has really inspired for my own magazine. I really like the layout and divide between the images and the text and how the page is simply broken up. I like the use of colours which have been used for the 'Q' house style as they all contrast well with each other! I would like to adopt ideas from this layout for my own.

Target audience research questionnaire

Target audience research questionnaire

1)      What makes a music magazine look attractive to you?

a.       Images

b.      Fonts

c.       Layout

d.      Colours

e.      The feature

Why:……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

2)      What is your preferred music genre?

a.       Pop

b.       Rock

c.      Heavy metal

d.      R&B

e.        Other

If other please name:………………………………………………………..

3)      What do you turn to first in a magazine?

a.       Main article

b.      Posters

c.       Contents page

d.      Features

e.      Other

If other please name:………………………………………………………..

4)      What intrigues you into buying a magazine?

a.       House style

b.      Price

c.       Recommended by someone else

d.      Specific article

5)      What sort of articles attract your attention?

a.       Celebrity

b.      News

c.       Music

d.      Reality
e.       Fashion

6)      How often do you buy a music magazine?

a.       Daily

b.      Weekly

c.       Monthly

d.      Yearly

e.      Never

7)      List two things you look for in a successful music magazine?

1.       ……………………………………………………………………………………………

2.       ……………………………………………………………………………………………

8)      What is your ideal colour scheme?

a.       Bright colours

b.      3 colours

c.       Gender related

9)      What is the average price you would pay for a music magazine?

a.       £1-£3

b.      £3-£5

c.       £5+

10)   What is your ideal layout of a magazine?

a.       Neat and precise

b.      Scattered and jumbled

c.       Mix and match

11) Which name do you prefer for a pop music magazine?
a. Chart Pop
b. Pop Chart
c. Pop Power
d. Top Pop 

12) How many images do you think should be on the front of a magazine?
a. 1
b.2
c.3
d.4+

double page spread analysis

Double page spread analysis

Double page 1

The first double page spread I am going to analyse is from the music magazine NME. It is simply split into text on one page and an image on the other. The purpose of this is to ensure that the space is used effectively, ensuring there isn’t lots of space left over but also not too crowded.

The colour scheme of the text and the page is linked to the colours within the image. The burnt orange which is only slightly used in the text connotes the pint in Pete Doherty’s hand; along with the colour of his top. The white text is simply used to contrast with all of the dark colours in the image, and used on the background of the second page to contrast with the black text. The purpose of this is to ensure that the text stands out to the reader.

The Masthead on this double page spread is slightly different to others as it isn’t at the top of the page. It is in the bottom two thirds of the image, followed by a personal quote which will be what the main text relates to. That is also in white text, again, to contrast with the dark colours in the image. Most magazines have the main image crossing over the centre line which joins the two pages together.

The text isn’t very big and starts with a drop capital, the drop capital is in the burnt orange keeping up the house style. Right in the centre of the main body text is a pull quote from Pete Doherty; this will have a link to the text of somewhat as pull quotes are made to be clearly noticeable to the audience as they are important.

In the bottom right of the page there is an image which links to the main body text and also has a brief description within the image. The purpose of this is to add empathy to the text also giving the reader a better idea of the text.

I like the house style and the colours used as they link through the image and the text. The colours are both bright but dim, they are dark, but also brightly stand out.

I dislike how the main image doesn’t go over the centre line as it doesn’t look as professional.

Double page 2

The second double page spread which I analysed was from the magazine Q. The background of this double page spread is the full image across both of the pages. This is different to what the layout of a double page spread usually is.

The colour scheme of this double page spread is limited to basically 3 colours. The red which is on the fabric in the image links to her red hair and red lipstick. This is professional as they have found a way to bring through that specific colour which, red, linking it into the house style more uniquely. Florence is looking directly at the reader giving the female look, inviting the reader in to read the article. Florence’s stance gives the reader the idea that she is a dominant woman; her clothing and the length of the dress also suggests this. The tight black clothing suggests she is aiming for a sexy look, however black implies darkness and depression.  The pose is assertive and links with the title of the Masthead, ‘got the love’ which could be the reason of her confidence.

The ‘USA’ text takes over both pages which is the largest font of the page. This shows that it is the main text feature of the page in order to attract the readers’ attention. The main text is in three main columns which follow the conventions of a double page spread. The first column has a drop capital which is bold and instantly attracts attention.

I like the use of the red throughout the two pages as it has been effectively used. I like how it has been linked through her hair and lipstick. This also links with the way she is dressed and her stance. I also like how the image takes up the full background, I think it looks good and grabs attention more.

Double page 3

This double page spread which I am going to analyse is from the magazine ‘Kerrang’. The image fills the right page on this double page spread also crossing over the centre line. This is one of the conventions of a double page spread. The background is simply white; however Lily Allen’s shirt is mainly bright red with a checked pattern. This brings colour to the article which will grab the readers’ attention. The choice of clothing and make-up gives off a Goth vibe. This links with the font and colours used in the Masthead.  All of the simple colours used go and look good together.

The Masthead takes up just over two of the thirds of the page. The font which is used for this is bold with a large black outline around the white text. This makes it the main feature of the page as it is the most noticeable and stands out the most compared to everything else.

The main text is in four small columns, the reason for this is probably because the Masthead takes up too much room on the page so it was the only way the main text would fit on the page. This isn’t a convention of a double page spread as it is usually three columns for text.

I like the placement of the image as you can tell it is dominant and easily catches the readers’ attention as it is the only feature with colour. I also like how bold the title is and the use of different sized letters.

I dislike how the main text has been squashed into the bottom of the first page with the use of very small font. I think the Masthead should be decreased slightly as I think it would still stand out.

Double page spread 4

The fourth double page spread I am going to analyse is from the magazine Q. The main image is exactly one full page in the left page with the story is on the right page. The convention of using a full page image is that it should go over the line where the two pages join. The background of the page which holds the text is simply white to ensure the black text stands out to the reader. The large red ‘J’ which is situated over the middle of the text which has been made to look slightly transparent. The purpose of this is the main story is about Jay Z so that is that it stands for, as well as being red which links to the magazines house style. There is also two drop capitals used but in the middle of the text rather than the beginning. This isn’t usually a convention or how they are used but it is different. The text is in two columns which isn’t a convention of a double page spread, the convention is to have it in three columns. The quote which is situated on the bottom left of the image is also in the colour red. The clothing and accessories used within the image of Jay Z are dark and bling. This connotes Jay Z as a person as well as linking to the colour scheme of the magazine. The glasses and necklace are an extra feature which shows the reader what sort of person Jay Z is even if they don’t know of him. The lighting in the picture is red, this again is linking to the colour scheme.

There is no masthead and it looks as though they have used the large ‘J’ on the text page to distract the fact there isn’t one. The colours which have been used inspired me for my own magazine as they are three simple colours however contrast well with each other. The use of the red really adds empathy to the house style making it look effective and professional which I want my magazine to look.

I like the way the accessories have been used in the image to bring out Jay Z’s personality to the reader. I also like the slightly transparent ‘J’ which has been used over the main text. It is something I would like to adapt into my own double page spread.

I dislike how the convention of the three columns hasn’t been met and there has only been two used. I also dislike how there isn’t a main masthead as that is also a convention of a double page spread.

Double page spread 5

The final double page spread which I am going to analyse is from the magazine ‘Vibe’. The main image is made to look like it is dominant compared to everything else on the page. It is mainly on the right page and meets the convention of crossing over the centre line. The background is pink which links to Nicki Minaj’s personality and appearance which you can see from the image. The colour scheme isn’t linked to the house style of the whole magazine, it has it’s own individual colour scheme which is mostly pink and black but white is brought in through her accessories and clothing to show a contrast between the colours in order to grab attention.

The text goes across two pages which isn’t a convention of a double page spread; being separated into 6 different columns of different lengths which again isn’t a convention of a double page spread. The text on the second page is typed to fit around the image which looks slightly unprofessional as well as unconventional. However, there is bold text used throughout the text to make main pints of the story stand out to guide the reader. This is most likely to appeal to a younger age range due to the colours and fonts used. There is a pull quote which contains all three colours of the colour scheme just to show an upkeep of house style to the reader.

The masthead is in black and a darker pink to the background to ensure it stands out as it is a main convention of the page. It also has contrasting fonts to make sure it stands out to the reader Below that is a summary of the article in a plain black font, similar to the story, however larger just to ensure it stands out compared to the main story as the reader needs to read this first.

I like the use of the image as it is different and stands out as being the dominant feature of the double page spread. I also like the contrasting fonts in the masthead as my eyes were instantly drawn to this. I like the use of the bold text used throughout the story to pull the readers’ attention to the important points as well as guiding them through.

I dislike the different columns as it doesn’t look like a professional double page spread and looks a bit all over the place.