Research: Codes and conventions

Codes and conventions of magazine covers
In today's and yesterdays lesson we discussed the codes and conventions on magazines, and generally on music magazines they include similar features, because set rules have to be taken into consideration during the manufacturing of the product. These rules are the codes and conventions. 

- The positioning of the Masthead is always in either the top left hand corner or across the top of the page, running from left to right. If the magazine is well known then the masthead can sometimes be covered up by the central image.
- Generally, the central image used on the front cover is of a band or a singer.

- The background is normally plain, and the colours used generally consist of around 3-4 different colours so its easy on the eye.

- There are normally 5-6 cover lines on the front cover. One being the main cover line, and this is generally cohesive to the central image.  

- The central image is normally a close up or a medium close up. But if the featured article was a band then sometimes long shots were used.

- The smaller pictures around the edges of the central image, correspond to the cover lines or featured articles inside.

- The cover lines are generally in the same style font.

- The age range is different depending on the genre of the magazine.
- There usually is a "puff" to promote the magazine and to attract the reader.

- The text on the front cover of the magazine anchors the images.

- A buzz word is used to promote the magazine and to interest the buyer and to also grab their attention. For example: "Exclusive..."
- The bar code is placed at the bottom of the magazine front cover, along with the price and date.

- The positioning statement is normally above or below the masthead.

- Direct mode of address.
- A slogan is used on every issue as a memorable motto or phrase.
- Music magazines are usually priced more than a gossip magazine.

- The font used is clear and easy to understand.