MAGAZINE ANALYSIS
By Taylor Morris
FRONT COVER ANALYSIS Cover Lines fill the space on the left to show the top articles included in the magazine. The white font stands out against the dark background, making it more visible to the reader.
The Splash in a larger serif typeface linking to the image of Drake on the cover, indicates to the reader that the issue this month is based on that artist and may include either gossip, reviews or an interview on either the artist themselves or a particular album by them included inside possibly on a double-page spread, for example in the bottom left it hints that a discussion or review about his album in 2013 will be included.
The Masthead is bold and yellow to stand out against a black and white background. The image is placed behind the masthead to ensure it is visible to the audience, although the masthead is not covering too much of the image.
Direct Gaze is used by the artist to make the magazine appear to be almost compulsory to buy and to make the reader feel involved within the concept of the magazine.
CONTENTS PAGE ANALYSIS Layout The layout of the page makes it easy for the reader to understand what is featured in the magazine, as there are bold and distinct headings for each category of the articles, for example “Fashion”. In addition, the word “Contents” is placed at the top of the page to make it clear which part of the magazine this covers, however the abstract typography of the word makes the magazine more recognisable for its unconventional style.
Colour Scheme The contents page has mainly a grey theme, suggesting that the artist, Kanye West, doesn’t necessarily need to use colour and imagery to sell his music as it is solely about the messages he is trying to convey through his songs. The “V” in the background, which stands for “Vibe”, is a slightly darker grey and therefore stands out to the reader, reminding them of the magazine’s urban and abstract style. The fairly bland colour scheme brings the readers attention immediately to the bright red heart which is being held to Kanye’s chest. The image of a red heart gives off the connotations of love and romance, perhaps subtly suggesting that the article may discuss the artist’s love life.
Photography The photography used is very effective as the main focus of the reader is on the artist, Kanye, as he is the dominant figure. The way in which he is standing gives him a sense of power and emphasised by his hand being in his pocket as well as his pose implying that he is aware of his power in the music industry. In addition to this, Kanye is using direct gaze to create a relationship with the reader, making them feel closer to the artist, encouraging them to buy the product. This is also emphasised by the camera being level with Kanye, he is not having to look up or down on the reader, possibly giving the affect that the reader and Kanye are somewhat alike, have a connection, or maybe share common interests, enticing and exciting the reader which again encourages the reader to buy the magazine. The hand reaching over Kanye and holding what appears to be a representation of his heart, suggests that there is an article inside sharing a story about his personal life, which will interest many audiences outside of the Kanye West fan base, as he is such a popular and well known artist. The stylish and modern clothing which the artist is wearing, reminds the reader that “Vibe” magazine features articles not only on music, but also fashion, entertainment, art and pop culture.
DOUBLE PAGE SPREAD
FRONT COVER The colours on the cover match the colours on the contents page, keeping the style of the magazine crisp and smart and it presents the genre of the magazine in a formal manner. The white, black, red and blue fonts go together well and are included for maximum appeal. The main cover line fits around the artists’ head linking to the actual wording of the title ‘What’s in Noel’s head now?’ This adds to the consumers interest as it gives the text some character, perhaps even leading to the purchase of the product.
‘Noel’s’ is in red and bold larger font to link to the image of Noel Gallagher. Clearly he is the main story in this months issue.
The page is quite busy, however it is still easy to read. The busyness of the page does increase the level of depth though, which could easily catch someone’s eye in the store.
CONTENTS PAGE Headline in block capitals to make the text stand out.
Features included in the magazine are in order and are all to the left hand side so it is easy for the reader to read through. Other important contents of the magazine also featured in red, showing that they are just as important
Large image of the featured band showing they are the main feature in this month’s issue. Date is included on corresponding side of the title text box which makes the layout appealing, smart and shows good structure making it easily visible. Different feature of the magazine in a smart, subtle grey text box, possibly a new feature added to the magazine which adds to the readers interest.
DOUBLE PAGE SPREAD
Photography Techniques Lady Gaga uses direct gaze to indicate that the artist wants you to read the page. She is posing in a very seductive manner and wearing what seems to be only chains, connecting to the colour red on the next page, which in Western culture symbolises love, sexual attraction, passion and also danger. The red also links with the consistent colour scheme for ‘Q’ magazine Colour Scheme
Drop caps to encourage the audience to start reading
The picture is in black and white, emphasising the colour of the red ‘L’ on the corresponding page. The opacity of the coloured ‘L’ means that it does not obstruct the readers view of the text in any way. Using the letter in this way is effective as it adds another layer and therefore depth to the page, adding to the intrigue of the article.