Inspirations and conventions

Robyn Battle

Front cover inspirationsThese are the covers that have inspired

my front cover. There are particular features that they all have in common which particularly appeal to me. For

example, the dominant image on each one overlaps with the masthead. This is effective as it shows importance and the contrast against each other and make it stand out. As well as this, they all use a

simply yet effective colour scheme which is appealing yet not too over the

top. I also love the layouts that are used because it is organised and clear, this

allows it to appeal more to older generations as well as younger ones.

An example of a generic convention included in the front over is the mast head. This is usually positioned at the top of the page and makes it instantly recognisable for the audience. There is

also usually a streamline used. This usually goes at the top or bottom of the page and highlights the celebrities that

are featured in the magazine. A dominant image is also commonly

included in the centre of the cover and is a often a medium shot taken from a

studio. This is used to show the content of the feature article. The tag line is

usually featured as the main text on the cover to advertise the articles within the

magazine.

Contents page inspirationsI have chosen these specific inspirations as

I believe they would appeal most to my target audience. The text is all presented clearly and effectively so that people can

immediately identify what is to come in the magazine and where they can find each

section. The colours used tend to be neutral colours like blacks, whites, reds and blues. This is effective because it can appeal to a wider audience as it could be directed to

both men and women. The layouts themselves are effective and eye catching. Also, the dominant images used are present

well as they contrast against the background and stand out. This is effect as it means people can else can get an idea of

what to expect within the magazine.

Some general conventions of the contents page include the masthead. This is so the audience can immediately identify who it

belongs too. Other conventions include the date as it allows the reader to keep track of the magazine so they are able to buy each

copy in order and will be able to know if they miss a copy. There is also a main

image usually included to link to the text and give the readers an idea of who is featured in the magazine. There is a

heading reading ‘Contents’ that is usually placed at the top of the page to inform the reader what the purpose of the page is.

Double page spread inspirationsThese are some example of double page spreads that I used to inspire my own. The reason these specific ones appealed

to me was due to the effective dominant images that are used. The are all eye catching and have a sense of mystery

and curiosity about them. The majority tend to lock eye contact with the camera which intrigues people. The colour scheme also remains simple yet effective as it immediately shows the reader who the article is going to be based on.

The generic conventions of DPS include features such as the heading. This gives the reader and insight of what the article is about. There is also commonly a main image used to link to the text. There is also gutter lines used to separate and

organise the text so it’s clear and easy to read.