Generic Conventions of Magazines

  

   

Generic Conventions of Magazines

MASTHEAD: This is the title of the magazine. It is commonly red, as this signifies importance, passion, danger, and many other emotions, and so can be adapted to fit most genres. Usually, this is located at the top of the magazine to ensure the audience is able to see what is practically the 'brand name' of the magazine, as a lot of the time the rest of the magazine is covered up as newsagents and shops pile them together.

MAIN IMAGE: This is usually a mid shot of one specific person, but can vary depending on the magazine. It portrays the feature of the magazine and can attract various different fan bases depending on who or what is on the cover. A large amount of the time, the main image anchors the masthead, and is in direct address to the reader. 

COVERLINE: This is usually a few words of which convey to the reader what the magazine consists of, and uses exaggeration to get the reader excited. These are the main text on the cover, advertising different articles to entice the reader.

ANCHORAGE: Pinning down an image with text (usually a cover line). For example, 'Spring Looks' on the Vogue cover above uses this across the breast of the star to sexualise her. Though this is not always what it is used for. No text whatsoever covers the face on the image.

COLOUR SCHEME: This way, there is not a colour clash that will deter any potential buyers. It also targets a specific audience more, for example, a magazine directed towards teenage females will usually include the colours pink, white, and yellow, whereas a magazine targeted towards males of this age would not.

TEASERS: This is text which excites and teases the audience, which encourages them to purchase the magazine, as they know that if they do, they will find the answers they seek. This is common in soap magazines, for example 'Who killed Derek?', often asking a question.

ISSUE NO: This is used to ensure the reader knows which issue the magazine is, or what season. This is especially handy if they are a collector. This is located near the masthead to ensure it is easy to see.

DATE: Tells the reader the date the magazine was released. Located near the masthead, usually to the right, the audience is able to easily find it.

BARCODE: To scan for the price, as it is the same price in each store. This is always located on the front of the magazine, as the back is usually taken up by advertising.