Researching Existing Magazines

This front cover sticks to the colour rule of three: Blue, White and Pink. Blue and white are very neutral colours which connote calmness, however the pink stands out against the neutral colours which prove to be a contrast and thus implies the that the contents of the magazine contains different information; fundamentally attracting a larger audience.

 

This particular issue of Lancashire Life focuses on the Lake District and so the front cover image anchors this as a photograph of the Lakes' landscape is used. This would automatically attract a reader as they may recognise the place. However, the magazines cover image is attractive and eye-catching, the scenic image would attract readers out of curiosity.

 

I will definitely consider using a recognisable and attractive landscape image for the front cover of my magazine as it would attract the demographic of locals as well as people who are interested in discovering more about the image on the front.

 

The graphology of the magazine is simple, the writing is plain and easy to read which implies that the magazine is 'to the point'. The use of alliteration "wild and wonderful" and "cult collies" effectively draws attention to the cover stories.

 

"Exposed" is a magazine sold only in Sheffield and South Yorkshire.

The magazine targets a range of demographics, each issue containing specialised features which attract a large audience.

 

The cover of this issue of "Exposed" is striking. The bright colour scheme of yellow, red and white has connotations of fire and heat, which highlights the fact that the magazine is "hot" or up-to-date.

 

The main cover story is large and eye-catching. The rhyme used "Ram, Bam, Thank You Man" is simple but effective and also suggests a lack of seriousness and a laid-back attitude which reflects the content of the magazine.

 

The cover image is a medium close up of a person with an indirect gaze, this suggests a sense of mischief, often associated with a younger audience (the image anchors the main cover story).

The cover story focuses on Chris Ramsey, a comedian from the North East of England, not many would know this other than local people, this is a common feature of a regional magazine as Chris would be recognisable to locals but perhaps not people from different regions.

 

This particular issue of "Exposed" appears to be targeted towards a younger audience due to the youthful comedian being a main feature; the bright colours used also suggest that the magazine is
targeted at a younger demographic

 

Another regional magazine that I have found is "Now Then". This magazine is slightly different as it is free, however it still abides by the usual conventions of a regional magazine.

Now Then is a free magazine distributed all over Sheffield and the Peak District.

The magazine is  produced by Opus Independents, a not-for-profit social enterprise which has been operating in this, our fair city for over five years. Now Then is a full colour,

content led magazine, featuring articles and interviews on local & national politics, trade,

visual arts, music, poetry and satire. Now Then is read by 30,000-40,000 people each month.