Initial front cover research

To begin this unit of work I researched the conventions of magazine front covers, the content's pages and double page spreads. I looked at a selection of magazines from several genres for my initial research to pick out any general conventions that may run across genres.

This is my initial research into the general conventions of magazine front covers.

After analysing these three front covers a number key conventions relating to content and the placement of content on the front covers were identifiable. 

The key image on all of these magazines has been given a sense of depth and make to stand out by the use of layers. The key image will be behind some of the text of the front cover and yet in front of other pieces such as the mast head.in these cases. The mast head is always at the top of the page where the reader starts to read from conventionally, it also allows quick and easy identification of the magazine. The mast head is in a large font to make it stand out as the most important text. The subheading which can also be referred to as a splash, which tells the reader the main focus of the issue is positioned towards the middle of the magazine cover and towards the bottom. This allows space for the key image to be seen. Cover lines on the front covers are positioned towards the side of the magazine and can also be found at the bottom below the Splash line. Banners are also employed to display content, and they are positioned toward the top of the magazine by the mast head. They are placed there as it is the first place that the readers eyes are drawn to. There is also a circular box used to display special features or awards won by the magazine.

I will continue my research by looking at content pages as well as double page spreads.