Annotating Front Covers & Double Page Spreads

Annotating Front Covers & Double Page Spreads

As a class last lesson we studied a variety of different music magazines. We had to rip out our favourite front cover and double page spread and stick them onto a big bit of paper, annotating the codes and conventions, what we liked, why they used it etc. Therefore after this we had a chance to study each others. This was good therefore we was able to compare our ideas and what we liked and didn't like about each magazine front cover and contents page. 

I annotated a double page spread out of 'MIX MAG'. I really liked the layout of this double page spread the way in which firstly the background a collage of photos relating to the story. The story is about the raves therefore all the photos are different raves.The first thing you see is the bright colours and all the pictures. The way in which they have created a collage is significant connotating the fact that its hustle and bustle, crazy etc. All the pictures show the party and the people all having a great time. On one side of the page is the headline. The typography used fits with the subject of the story as its all in capitals and block like showing the important and craziness. The white contrasts the dark and brightly coloured photos. I really liked the way the photos are collaged showing almost messiness and carelessness which is relevant. 

I then annotated a front cover of a music magazine that was completely different to any I have seen. Although it was different It caught my eye. I noticed firstly the fact that the masthead wasn't as big, bold and bright as all the others we have researched. The first word that came to mind when seeing this front cover was 'simplicity'. The mast head states that it is 'Observer Music Monthly' which automatically shows its a monthly magazine. I already knew 'The Observer' as being a very formal broadsheet newspaper. Knowing this information you immidatley associate it with being formal and for the demographics A & B. I researched and learn't that you get it free with the paper. Knowing this helped me understand the different layout compared with other music magazines. As it was free the music magazine didn't need to jump out at you with hot spots, selling points, features etc which any other magazine has to do. The picture on the front is of the famous singer  'MIKA' who is covered in multi-colour paint which isn't a normal photo and really contrast on the simple white background. Down along the bottom in smaller font is names of people who are featured inside. Also down the side of the picture has 'MIKA' and a little subheading stating what the story is about inside. 

I analysed and labelled a double page spread which I liked in NME magazine. The reasons I liked this double page spread was the use of the image that spreads across the double page. The picture is really revelant to the topic of the article. It speaks of the music in the past like ther 60's etc. The picture straight away catches the eye of the reader as its in black and white and looks old. In the picture I labelled that the boy is dressed in various 'vintage' clothing and is casually sitting on a wall which looks out on a industrial town. The articles heading is in big bold san serif font which contrasts on the white background of the article. The article starts with a big 'A' capital letter to help see where it starts and how it starts. In the middle of the article they have placed a quote which helps to break the text up and at a glance the reader is able to see one thing they have said.  The caption in the top right hand corner states whats in the picture and meaning behind it. I liked the use of the black and white showing its old but also the bright blue to show the modern aspect of it. The bright blue stands out and works well with the black and white.