Representation: How does your media product represent particular social groups?
I have targeted my magazine towards males and female aged 18-30 years of age. This age group would be more mature and may appreciate a classier look in a magazine compared to teenagers that may look for more of a pop style. However, this issue in particular may be targeted towards a female demographic due to the main feature being a younger girl. The psychographics for the magazine’s target audience would be potential young professionals looking for music/ lifestyle based topics. For example, I have incorporated ‘music horoscopes’ and a ‘venue guide’. The double page spread article has content based upon music and life rather than subjects such as make up or dating tips which would be conventional for pop magazines which would be at the opposite end of the spectrum. I have also used conventions that would suit the particular social group previously mentioned. The colours I have used are conventional for the age group targeted. I have used purples, oranges, blacks and a light pink shade to cover gender groups as they are gender neutral; they aren’t too bold or bright but stay classy and subtle. Another thing I have included is a subscription box which would be more appropriate for an older age group compared to a teenage age group as they, may not be in the position to buy and send off a subscription slip. Twitter/ Facebook and website links are also on the front page which would be only be useful for people that access then regularly like the age group targeted would be. The images used on the front page, contents page and the double page spread are all taken outside to create a natural feel. The Image on the front page in particular has a ‘moody’ sense to it because of the look on the face on the model to connote a serious mood. On a pop magazine the model may be smiling or have a prop to assist them. The contents page image includes the model holding onto a wired fence which may be an edgier choice then the photo being taken in a studio. The double page spread image in taken of the model siting down on steps in front of a brick wall to create a rough look which adds to the article/ interview written about the model. The backgrounds of all the images add to the feel of the magazine and give it a grown up feel. The example magazine above is from ‘Q’ music magazine. Both mast heads are bold and can be easily pointed out, but aren’t over the top. There are cover lines on the left and right sides of the pages of both magazines. There are also shapes such as small lines to separate and break up text. There are also circle shapes to create some differentiation and make the front cover look interesting. All of these conventions create a classy and more mature look to the magazine which suits the target audience. However, the images themselves are different. The Q magazine front page image is a close up with hands in view and the model has a harsh look on the face. NOVA magazine has a mid-shot image with a similar face to portray the same feelings; both creating a direct mode of address. Both models are around the same age as what the target audience would be in order for the readers to relate and be more interested in the magazine.