Diary Entry Two

Diary Entry two – MEDIA

This week I started my music magazine project, I had to research existing music magazines; I needed to take note of what music magazines looked like, so that I could design one similar. I then researched the codes and conventions of the music magazines, for example they all have barcodes, and the title of their magazine at the top of the page. This included the codes and conventions of front pages, double page spreads and contents pages.  I have been looking through magazines to find a style model, this has to be based on a specific genre, I analysed the codes and conventions, so that I could make my magazine similar.

Contents evaluation Q magazine

Contents page Q magazine evaluation

The logo and name of the magazine is in the corner of the page. which makes the magazine become more subtle, as the front cover has been designed so that the reader becomes aware of the name of the magazine.

Although James Blunt is the main image in this contents page, his name is placed second so that people become aware of what else is in the magazine, other than the huge image of James Blunt. Because by having him there it is quite obvious that he is included in this issue of the magazine.

There is also a separate section on the contents for the re- occurring things in the magazine... for example every month the magazine puts in a quiz or question ad answer, or posters; In this case 'cash for questions'.

Contents page Evaluation vibe magazine

Contents page Evaluation Vibe magazine

The word contents is presented differently, and slightly strange to made it unique and stand out more. The unique way that they have the model lying on the floor changes the whole look of a usual contents page. I like the way they have tried to but the 'V' in the back ground not noticeably but they have put it in for 'vibe' magazine. I like how neutral the contents page is, and the way it fades from black to white, from top to bottom.

Front cover evaluation vibe magazine

Front cover evaluation

This is a front cover for VIBE magazine, i like the colours used as i think the brighter the colours the more appealing the magazine to the audience its intended for, by using bright colours it kind of letter the image fade into the background is the image isn't too in yours face that it just distracts you from what is in the magazine.

The magazine front cover shows what is features in the magazine and one main story which in this case is Kanye West ' i'm a rap', it also has a linked website in the bottom left hand corner.

Evaluation 3 Double page spread

Evaluations of double page spreads

This double page spread is from Vibe magazine, of an R&B/Hip Hop genre. This double page spread is very different to Kerrang magazine. Kerrang magazine had very little text with lots of large images, whereas Vibe magazine has lots of text but with several images too. The overall colour scheme is quite plain, using only black, white and blue. Using these neutral colours appeals to both a male and female audience of all ages, which can help increase the magazines fanbase. Solange Knowles is wearing a short orange dress with high heels. This image accepts the body image importance stereotype within the R&B/Hip Hop music genre. Solange wearing an orange dress enables her to stand out and be the main focus, as does her name being printed in bright blue. With lots of text and pictures, it shows that Vibe magazine intend on educating readers and entertaining them too.

Front cover evaluation Spin Magazine

Front cover Evaluation

This is a front cover for Spin magazine, is features the band 'Paramore' but by having only Hayley Williams on the front, appeals more to the audiences, as shes an idol to a lot of young girls who like that genre of music, as well as boys finding her attractive. I will use this in my magazine because by placing a 'good looking girl' on the front it will attract both boys and girls because girls will aspire to be like her where as boys will buy the magazine for the posters and pictures inside.

Front cover Evaluation Q magazine

Front cover Evaluation

This front cover, is appealing to both genders, as i think that since it's having Cheryl Cole on it, its appealing to girls because it's Cheryl and shes an idol to all young girls, and boys because she looks slightly sexual, she has a very precognitive look to her.

The front cover includes a motto on the front of the magazine along with advertisements down both sides of the magazine, and a huge title indicating Cheryl Cole is featured in this issue of the magazine. The magazine also has a wet look to it which makes Cheryl look more and more appealing to a male audience.