The masthead

• Largest text size

• Unique font

• Positioned at the top

• Clear and easy to see

• Very noticeable

• Dominant on the page

The main image

• Largest image on the cover

• Usually of popular/well known figure(s)

• Usually giving direct address

• Conveys a certain attitude

• The main story/focus is about them

Main coverline

• Second largest font on the page

• Anchors the main image

• It is related to the main image (usually name of the artist)

• Noticeable/easy to see

Coverlines

• Frame the main image

• Small bits of content

• Teases the audience

• Contrasting text colour

Barcode

• Small

• Positioned at the bottom right of the cover

• Not very noticeable

• Does not take attention away from any of the other features

Price/date/issue number

• Small

• Takes no attention away from other features

• Often found within the barcode

• Not important to audience

Splash

• Often colourful

• Very noticeable

• Creates an incentive to buy the magazine

• Offers the audience something extra

• Usually says “FREE” or “WIN”

Positioning statement• At the top of the page (above masthead)

• Offers something special/exclusive to the audience

• Creates an incentive to buy the magazine

• Colourful

• Noticeable

Skyline

• Usually offers the audience something extra

• Teasing features

• Creates an incentive to buy the magazine

• Works as a splash

Fonts

• 2-3 fonts tend to be used in most magazines

• Simple and easy-to-read fonts

• Coverline font is different to main coverline font

• Usually are separated with colour

1

2

3

1

2

3

Colour scheme

• Usually has 2-3 colours

• Text colours contrast background colours

• Chosen colours work well together e.g. black and white

Red, Yellow, Black

Black, White, Brown

Black, White, Red