Saturday, 20 December 2014

Media evaluation

1. In what ways does your media product use, develop or challenge norms and conventions
of real media products? 

https://soundcloud.com/user431610291/norms-and-conventions


2. How does your media product represent particular social groups?

https://soundcloud.com/user431610291/how-does-your-media-product-represent-particular-social-groups


3. Who would be the audience for your media product and how are you attracting/addressing your audience?

https://soundcloud.com/user431610291/target-audience


4. What are you learning about technologies from the process of constructing this product?

https://soundcloud.com/user431610291/technologies

Friday, 28 November 2014

conclusion parragraph

My format research on magazine covers, contents pages and double page spreads has really given me an insight into what works well and what doesn't work well. I have also depicted norms and conventions which has been useful as they have given me ideas as to what ones i decide to follow. I have purposely explored a wide variety of genres of magazine as it helped me make connections and ensure that my magazine goes with my genre as well as it can.

The front covers i have explored have shown me what is suitable for my target audience. The pop magazine 'we <3 pop' included a wide rage of images, fonts ad colours, this is appealing to the younger audiences and overall projected a youthful theme. As a result of analyzing this magazine it has made me come to the conclusion that less it more and therefore i am going to stick to a more simplistic look. Despite the things i have chosen not to use it has highlighted that selling points are essential on a cover and are a great way to attract consumers. I then explored a rock theme cover as this is the genre i am going to cover. The main image has especially inspired me as its in black and white and i believe it looks very powerful. I really liked the colour scheme on this particular magazine and hope to include it when creating my cover. I also have decided to use similar fonts as they are loud and aggressive, i think this goes well with the theme rock. Although the classical magazine i looked at is completely different to the look i intent to go for, it did teach me that a lack of cover lines is actually complimentary to a front cover as it allows the reader to focus there attention on the main image. The use of swirly font of the headiness solidified my decision of using a larger and more outrageous typography for my title, as it makes it clear as to what genre i am covering.

For my contents page i decided to not only look at music magazines though i looked at a style magazine, i did this because i believed it would show me a bigger picture and i could then use ideas from alternative styles of magazines. The style magazine content page was very simplistic and chic, i really liked the layout of the content and even though its so diverse from my genre, i think i would benefit from incorporating some of the ideas eg; how the page numbers are set apart and easily depicted. I then went onto analyse a contents page of a magazine which explored many different genres, the style was very generic. I especially liked the title as its different and attention seeking, although it didn't follow the usual conventions it has inspired me to create something of that sort. The colour scheme projected has definitely helped me determine what i think will look good when i come to creating my content page, i intend to use louder and more dominant colours. The 'we <3 pop' content page was extremely full and busy, although it does attract attention, for my genre i don't think it will attract the right attention. The use of images indicates that its intended for a younger audience and the chosen colours make it look less professional. Despite this i am considering to include a selling point a bit like the one at the bottom of the page which advertise the range of posters inside, this is because it will ensure readers purchase the product.

The three double page spreads i analysed were quite diverse, they allowed me to explore the different norms and convention and consequently helped me create my own opinion on what i believe will look good. The first double page spread i looked at was one from an indie rock magazine, this was definitely my favorite out of the three. I liked this one because its very over exaggerated and i think the range of sepia images work well and create an edgy vibe. The selling point 'world exclusive' really caught my eye and i think i would benefit from including this when i come to creating my own spread. The article from the pop magazine didn't really intrigue me, this was probably because it isn't aimed for my age group, though this is helpful as it pointed out some features which wouldn't look good in my magazine. The aspects i depicted and will avoid are the way the celebrity is posing in which i mean smiling and being silly, i also dislike the background of the main image as i think it makes it look unprofessional. However i do like the highlighted words and i hope to use this technique, as it really does ensure that the reader doesn't overlook the main chunks of the article. The next double page spread i examined was one from a magazine which included many different genres. The layout of the article looks very professional, this is due to the powerful main image and complimentary colour scheme. This specific article has reminded me to be very selective when choosing my main image as it needs to be striking and indulging. From this magazine i have come to the conclusion that when making my double page spread i need to be a little more alternative and outrageous as this will be more suitable for my target audience.

Thursday, 27 November 2014

Double page spread analysis; 3


The title of this particular double page spread is intensely eye catching, the differentiation of fonts is greatly effective. The first font is bold and large, this and the straight lettering is very prominent and therefore ensures the readers eyes are instantly attracted to it. The word 'fiercely' indicates that something is intense or has a lot of energy and is difficult to control. However it also links to Beyonce, as one of her previous albums was called 'I am Sasha fierce' automatically the reader will have an idea of whom the article is about. The second font is of the same style although significantly slimmer in font, this alludes to more attention being drawn to the first words, however due to its large size it is still very noticeable. Both words are written in capital letters, this indicates that they are of high importance and prestige, the way that they over up a large amount of space suggests this to. The lettering is in white, this colour contradicts the other significant colours on the page, as a result this has worked well in making sure it is not overlooked. 

The main image takes up one half of the double page spread, this is a definite norm within music magazines, this is because the images are self explanatory. By using this much space for the picture, it allows the singers fans to keep the photo and use it as a poster, this is a great selling point as it results to the reader benefiting from buying the product. Beyonce is using direct mode of address, this is to make a connection with the reader and as a result it makes it gives a  slightly more personal touch. The close up shot allows the reader to see every little detail and due to the fact Beyonce is admired by millions her fans will hugely appreciate this. The artists pose coincides with the title well, the way she comes across is incredibly fierce. A prop has been used to make the image look more quirky and unusual, due to its obscurity it will leave the audience confused as to what it is. The image has a grey background which really makes the model stand out as the tones in the image are completely contradictory. 

The only subheading of the article gives a brief overview of the article, and really gets straight to the point, this is important as people can instantly tell if this article is for them or not. Those who may not usually chose to read about such artists are likely to be drawn into the article by the subheading. The name writer who wrote this particular article is also mentioned in the subheading opposed to at the bottom, this is a way of promoting themselves or reassuring readers of whom may know of the specific writer, that the article is trustworthy and worth a read. A certain part of the overview is highlighted in black, this is the only item on the page which uses this colour, this is for the sheer fact that the author wants the reader to read this first as it holds great importance. The typography is of medium font, it is significantly smaller than the headline although some what bigger than the lettering of the article itself. It is in lowercase font, apart from the writers name, this has been purposely done to seek attention of the audience so they remember her. The typography of the text is in a small, easy to read font, like the headline it is also written in white as it projects greatly from the dark purple tones of the background. The text is purely third person, and is dedicated to how Beyonce got to the position shes at now, in a sense, its like a tribute. 

There is a clear colour scheme projects on this double page spread, in a sense, the three colour principle has been used. The most dominant colours are clearly purple and white. The colour purple has connotations of royalty, of which beyonce definitely is within the music industry, white has been used to compliment the darker shade as if black were to be used for the writing, it would of been undetectable and therefore ineffective. Overall i think the colour choice is very powerfull, it looks classy though 'fierce' to. 

Tuesday, 25 November 2014

General moodboard




I have created this mood board in order to show the representation of people who may buy a rock magazine. I have incorporated  aspects such as fashion as this will help me with my photo shoot. It ensured that i appropriately dress my model, this is crucial as people wont buy m media product if they aren't confident in the genre i am trying to portray. I have also realized that tattoos are a common trend within this social group, therefore it has given me the inspiration to use a model who fits this stereotype. By gathering this information i have concluded that those who listen to indie rock music, don't  really wear bright colour and Incorporated alot of black in their clothing. I will therefore make sure my model is dressed in black in order to fit in with the norms and conventions of a typical rocker. Individualism is is a strong theme throughout this genre of music, it is crucial that my model is alternative looking and doesn't fit in with the crowd.

Tuesday, 18 November 2014

Double page spread analysis 2


The masthead attracts a lot of attention in various different ways, this is extremely effective when writing an article as it is a way of luring a reader in whilst there flicking through the magazine. Firstly the writing is highlighted in a daring shade of red, in this case, it has connotations of Christmas, which is a clear theme of this article. The shape of the red background reflects a banner, this makes it more interesting and is more likely to avert the readers eyes to it. The font is  very assertive, this reflects the importance of the content, but also secludes it from the rest of the page which is effective in the sense that it wont be overlooked. The actual content of the headline includes a play on words, this is a norm within informal magazine, it makes it more memorable. The fact that the name of celebrity of whom the article is about is incorporated is extremely effective, it not only makes it very obvious but also gives the reader a good idea of what the article includes before reading the article. The name 'Murs' is highlighted in another colours, this is to assure the pun isn't dismissed and that emphasis is put on the singers last name. 

Beneath the heading there is a subheading, this gives you a summary of the article, this is key as its main purpose is to intrigue the reader and persuade them to read on. The content of the subheading make it clear who there target audience is. Another pun is incorporated 'jolly'oliday' but also phrases such as'popped along'  this makes it clear that it is light hearted and informal and therefore there target audience is clearly children/teenagers. A list of other celebrity's are then stated, this is a way of extending  the amount of readers, if they don't like Olly Murs they shouldn't neglect the article as there a range of other celebrity's which may appeal to them. 

The  article is in the form of an interview, this is usually successful in pop magazines because the writing is separated and therefore easier for the younger readers to absorb. Interviews are seen as more valid and regarded information, as it is not changed by the writers opinion/perception, it is factual information from the celebrity. Interviews also seem to reveal more information and therefore audiences prefer them as they are more personal and the reader can start building a connection with them. The questions are written in red, this makes the text look more exiting but also take away any confusion which could occur. The answers are written in black,  both colours contradict each other greatly so as result is very effective. Some writing is highlighted in yellow, this is so when the reader opens the magazine and scams the pages, they will automatically be drawn to this specific information. The content of the emphasize dialogue is the most thrilling and interesting sections, therefore this gives the reader an impressive taster of what the rest of the article will entail. 

There is an obvious colour scheme projected within this article and the three colour principle has evidently been used. The colours used are red,yellow and white. Red and yellow are both hectic colours and consequently create a fun atmospheric vibe.Yellow has connotations of happiness and energy and due to the lack of severity in the article, this is a perfect way of emphasizing the cheerfulness. Red has connotations of boldness and excitement, it not only attracts the reader but as a whole it looks intensely engaging. 

There are three images incorporated on the page, they are all of a similar nature however are effective. Firstly, the most obvious and conspicuous in the larger image, the facts that it fills half the page emphasizes its importance. The singer is posing in front of a Christmas themed background, this looks appealing as it coincides with the theme of the article. He is smiling which instantly makes the reader warm to him, his appearance as a whole is well groomed and tidy, this is common within the pop industry. The main purpose of the main image is to be used as a poster, this is a norm within magazines aimed at a younger audience, its a great selling point and alludes the reader gaining something out of buying the magazine. Another images has been placed on the bottom left hand corner, it has almost been embedded in the article, this is commonly used to rectify the lack of content in a subtle way. In this image Murs is wearing a Christmas hat and tinsel around his neck, this portrays his fun excitable character in which his fans love. The third image is added at the top, and also projects a Christmas theme. As a whole, the images used are effective in the sense that the audience are young and prefer to look at pictures than to read a lot of content, they make the page look more full and exiting.  



Double page spread analysis 1



I really like how the heading is a quote from the article, this gives the reader insight before they have even absorbed any information. The actual content of the title is clearly a quote spoken by one of the band members hence the speech marks, this instantly suggest that the article is very personal. To a fan this will be very inviting, as they would prefer to hear from the actual band instead opposed to a journalist simply just writing about them. The typography is all in uppercase letters, this adds a sense of excitement, however, it also alludes to more attention and by taking up a large proportion of the page it will be highly unlikely to be missed. The font is interesting and alternative, it has a eroding effect which is common within this genre as it adds edge. Beneath the main heading is a subheading, this involves a brief amount of information which directly tells the reader what the article is going to be about. The bands name is in bold, this is so that anyone who didn't identify the abbreviation written in the main heading is now fully aware of whom the article is about. It then states that the interview is based in 'there recording studio' this immediately shows the reader that it is an exclusive interview and will entail a lot of interesting information.

I find the images extremely enticing. The sepia affect makes them look quirky and retro but also there are no bright colours to deter the readers attention from things such as the headline and text. I like how there are a range of images opposed to one, it is a lot more appealing to the eye and captures many different perspectives of the band. A range of different shots are used this adds differentiation which is key when trying to create an engaging piece. Each band member is incorporated, this is important as it shows the full picture and doesn't seclude anyone. There are not only images of the band members in action, but also in the studio, this is quite personal and makes the reader think they are viewing exclusive never been seen pictures. It is quite obvious that direct mode of address hasn't been used, this makes the images look more natural. this is the case in a lot of 'indie rock' magazines, as the artists are alternative and do not want to be perceived as 'posers'. I like how the images have been allotted around the page, they are almost bordering the text, this assures the target audience to read the text after analyzing the images. The pictures are of different sizes, the background image is more dominant, this is because it is of the lead singer who is the most recognized band mate. The rest are of the other members of my chemical romance, i think the sizing is accurate as it still allows for an acceptable amount of text to be included.

The three colour principle is very obvious on this double page spread. The colour scheme follows the norms of music magazine, especially and indie rock one. However usually white is the most dominant colour, in this case black is, it looks very suitable for the genre. The amount of black on the page create a dark, Gothic atmosphere, this allows the glimpses of red  to stand out a lot more. The red has connotations of danger, heat and power, rock artists want to be perceived as risk takers, therefore it has a big effect. The text is written in white as it completely contradicts the darkness of the page, therefore the writing is easily detectable and clear to read. Although these colours are common in the music magazine industry, they are also the colours which are associated with the band through there dress sense and image as a whole.

Convergence has been used on the top left hand corner, it offers a website of which the latest news is displayed on. This is a great way to expand the target audience, due to the fact that some people may not enjoy reading magazines and therefore they can still keep up to date on the web. They section it of from the rest of the page by incorporating boarders, this makes them easily identified. The words 'world exclusive' makes the reader feel they are gaining something from the magazine however it also shows unique the article is. This is a great selling point as the reader will feel that this is there only chance to delve into this private information.

Thursday, 13 November 2014

Double page spread; Moodboard



This is a range of double page spreads which particularly stood out for me. By putting this together it has helped me compare the different styles, as a result i can now identify what i think is more effective and will help me create a professional media product. I have established that double page spreads are much more appealing to the reader when its split in half, one side filled with writing and the other an image/images. It is vital that my double page spread is appealing to the eye in order to attract my target audience. I have established that my target audience will be between 16-25 so therefore it is key that i don't include to much writing in order to attain their attention.

Sunday, 2 November 2014

Content page analysis 3

The title of he magazine is placed at the top right hand corner of the magazine, it is important to still include the brand name even inside the magazine as it is like a subtle reminder of the name. The typography is not of large size, this is so it doesn't draw any attention away of the main masthead. The colours stand out from the pink background, the black writing is very detectable. The replacement of the word love for the shape of a heart is not only appealing to the eyes, however it makes the name a lot more short, snappy and memorable. The main mastheads size is quite substantial in comparison to the size of the page. The typography is striking and outrageous, it is the first thing the readers eyes are averted to, this is due to a few factors. This includes; the obvious contrast between the black in comparison to the array of bright, luminous allotted on the page. The content of the writing is luring, the word 'love' is an exaggeration, but perfect for intriguing the reader. The three dotted lines at the end of the main masthead allude to a sense of anticipation, as if its inviting the audience to indulge in rest of the context on the page. 

The actual content information is quite insignificant on the page. It is places near the bottom left hand corner. This goes against the norms of a content page, as usually the information is given a large amount of space on the page and has a great amount of dominance. The content is singled of in its own little box, although it is not been done in a bold form. The main heading is in the same typography as the masthead, this is effective as the font is extremely attention seeking. Although the positioning of the page numbers is poor, the look as a whole makes up for this. The bright pinks and prestige blacks are sufficient in absorbing the reader. The way that the actual numbers are of a hefty size makes sure they wont be overlooked. Although the detail about each page is small in size, the numbers retrieve the attention of the reader anyway, so they are almost certain to read to extra information . There are strap lines dotted around the page which are in the form of captions. These captions are snippets of key parts of interviews, this is an exceptionally compelling as it will force the reader to want to know more. 

The images involved on this page are extremely predominant, and seem to be the most important features. This is because the target audience are clearly of a young age, therefore pictures  stimulate them more than words. If the magazine followed the usual convention of filling the page up with hundreds of words and little visually appealing factors, the audience would become bored, unsatisfied, this could sacrifice the consumption of the magazine. The images are all of pop sensation, the variety of celebrity's will automatically create a sub genre of there fans and as hera result of this, the sales will almost certainly go up. Opposed to just using one band/artist, various have been included, as a result of this the magazine looks more entertaining and fulfilling. The central image is of the main feature 'the Saturdays'. There involvement on the page is very effective for many reasons; They are all in bright colours which immediately alerts the readers, the assortment of colours reflect and informal atmosphere which is just right for this particular genre. The facial expressions of the pop stars are all different and certainly alternative, they are all using direct mode of  address, this helps simulate interaction with each individual reader. 

The magazine has used the 3 colour principle. The dominant colours of which are pink and blue are striking, they are not  two colours which usually go well together, however in this case the outcome is adequate. The way that they are both extremely loud and make a statement, really livens up the page and makes it look exiting. Another reason why those particular colours have been used could be to steer away from it being gender specific. The colours have connotation of both male and female, therefore neither sex will feel as if the magazine is not intended for them. The magazine have followed the usual convention of using a contradicting colour such as black, this is forceful in the sense it stands out and makes sure the page doesn't look unprofessional and messy.

The content page includes a great selling point. By advertising free posters will definitely appeal to the younger generation, not only are they free, it gives the audience a souvenir of their favorite bands/ artists. The magazine has cleverly included a vast amount of celebrity's so that they can appeal to all. This selling point is very obvious, it is boarded by a bright blue, so that the readers eyes are immediately drawn. The sign which quotes 'free posters' is in an unusual shape and bold font, this makes sure it is not missed. The company's website is also inserted at the bottom of the page, this allows other types of media to be included, but also allows the subscribers to find out more information, this also implies that it is well established.

Friday, 31 October 2014

Content page analysis 2


Although its a content page, most music magazines include there name/logo on the page, however this issue of 'vibe' hasn't followed this convention. Instead they have included something a little more diverse yet still very effective. By incorporating just the first letter is a subtle way of including there personalized signature. It is interesting how they have used a darker shade of the background colour  in order to emphasize this, this again goes against the norms, despite this, the outcome still looks powerful. The typography of the masthead is divergent, it is unusual that they have broken up the words, most magazines would be reluctant to do this as it may cause confusion. It is grouped on the top right hand side of the page, this is to ensure its the first thing the reader see's when they open the magazine but it also directly tells them what page it is. The writing is big and bulky which draws attention to the it as it would be very hard to overlook. The prestige of the black is very distinctive as the majority of the page involves subtle colours.

The central image takes up a large percentage of the page and is very imposing. The image is in grey scale, which is interesting considering the background is also grey,The magazine has been very diverse in this sense. Its as if the celebrity is of so much importance that they stand out regardless of any other factors. Kanye's facial expression is extremely fierce, this may be because of his status, he is using direct mode of address, the outcome of this is very successful as it almost does make it appear that he is looking at you. He is smartly dressed, this is because he is renowned for his iconic style, but it also adds to the whole look of which is definitely formal and well established. There is a mysterious hand placed around his chest holding a heart, this has sexual connotations. The only bright colour included is the heart held in this hand, this could suggest that the magazine may delve into kanye's personal/love life. On a whole i do think this page has been effective as it looks very professional, although extremely different its still very powerful

The layout of the writing makes it very easy for the reader to detect and read. The information is clear and concise and only highlights key aspects of the information with minimal detail. Again the magazine have steered away from the usual norms, they have given the reader a small taster which is more than likely going to persuaded them to turn to the pages. I believe the magazine has done this as they are making it very clear they are not a gossip magazine and only project facts, it also shows they are  a well established and therefore highly respected company. The typography is of small font, although it isn't unnoticeable because the darkness of the black contrasts the dull grey which is the main colour.



Tuesday, 28 October 2014

content page analysis 1


The central image takes a prominent position; it fills up about two thirds of the page. It is clear that BeyoncĂ© is one of their main features, the fact she will be the first person the reader sees when they open the magazine is a great way to lure them in. The models outfit is very outspoken, the dress almost looks metallic, which very unusual. The fact that her clothing is gold, connotes wealth and originality, this really puts emphasis on how prestige she is within the music industry is. The way that the flash of the camera reflects the dress draws and enormous amount of attention.  The colour of the dress not only compliments the colour of her hair, but her complexion to. This is effective in various ways, like the  fact that it completely contrasts the white background this alludes to it looking  a lot more classy and professional as there’s not to much diversity of colours. The way the model is posing is very complimentary for her figure, this is key as she is a desired women, therefore her assets should be obviously apparent. BeyoncĂ© is using direct mode of address, this is very important as it builds a connection for a more personal inviting outcome.  Her facial expression is very open, this would instantly make the audience warm to her. The models big smile is very forceful, it makes her look a lot more approachable, so therefore the reader will be more inclined to read morel. Her happiness also presents her in an extremely positive light, this is not only good for the magazine, though her reputation to. 

The masthead has a big clear background, this is effective as it sections it of from the rest of the page. There are two diverse fonts for the different titles. Firstly the name of the magazine is repeated, this is significant as it makes it very obvious but also reminds the audience. By using the logo numerous times it will ingrain it into the readers head so then later on they will remember it, this could increase consumer rates. The typography is quite unique and modern, this coincides with the type of magazine it is, which is stylish and classy. the lettering is demi-bold, this looks especially good as its not to outspoken although it is still obvious. The colour red is used due to the other are black and white and therefore it adds a sense of vibrancy. Red alarming and emphasized although still classic. The spacing between the mastheads is very insignificant, this is because the completely different styles and colours divide it by themselves. The second masthead says 'content' this is of extreme relevance as it notify's the reader of what the page will involve. Although it does seem obvious, some people overlook the content page as if its not clear, they see a lack of writing and think its of no relevance. The typography is in black, this completely contradicts the other masthead but also the background. The lettering is grouped together in a tighter manner though the main reason for this is because it goes with the style which is more elegant. Curly writing is used in magazines a great amount as it looks attractive as its slightly more elegant. Beneath the masthead there is also the issue date, this is reiterated to ensure that people know if its the up to date copy or not. The typography is significantly smaller, this is due to the fact that its importance is smaller because people can usually tell by the front cover if they've read it before.

On the left side of the page there are page number will a small amount of detail of the content of the article. It is split into two sections by very visually obvious subheading. The subheadings are in a slightly larger more boisterous fonts, this is for easier accessibility so the reader can quickly scan the page and find the articles they are going to read first. Firstly the subtitle 'On the cover' this will be the main articles, the articles which could of drawn the consumer in in the first place. This will usually be the most popular therefore it was put at the top so the readers eye meets it first. There is no writing beneath the name as its very obvious what the content will be about anyway.  The second subtitle is 'features' this gives an insight into the other articles. This is displayed out slightly different s the names of the articles are highlighted in red, this links back to the colour of title of the magazine, by reinforcing the colour looks very effective as it makes the writing easier to read.  due to the multiple meaning the story titles could entail,t here is a small paragraph beneath each title, this is important. The writing usually uses flash words to excite the audience and make them want to read on. The page number are slightly larger and a lot more bold, this is because it makes it a lot clearer to read and consumers can find there page instantaneously. The main article number is extremely bigger as it ties in with the central image, it entails a lot more detail, this shows that it is the most important article and therefore they want the readers eyes to be averted to it instantly

There is clear colour scheme; black, white and red. This is definitely a norm within the magazine industry, especially within well established company's. The outcome is very slick, it definitely suggests the formality of the magazine due to the colours being very complimentary and well matched. Although red is a bright colour, the shade used on this content page is slightly darker which alludes to it being more glamorous. The white background is very efficient in allowing the typography stand out. By using a contrasting colour such as black is essential as it conflicts and as a result is very dominant, this is why most of the writing is in a darker tone.

Sunday, 26 October 2014

Content page moodboard


I have made this mood board in order to make it easier for me to identify features in which i want to incorporate. This has helped me visually understand what looks good and what doesn't look so good. I have come to the conclusion that a variety of images make it alot more satisfying but also clear and concise writing makes it easier to extract information. I particularly like the contents pages which involve dark colours, i find they are more eye catching and they coincide with my theme nicely.