When designing my magazine front cover I opted to follow conventions in terms of positioning and hierarchy of text concerning the masthead of my front cover. By placing it in the upper left third, it is clear for the target audience that the title is recognisable and is clear to associate with future or past editions. The font covers my main images face slightly which detracts from the total emphasis on the image but still allows for the audience to see the character’s face. This is a conventional way of formatting the text to view the image fully whilst gaining full information on the masthead.

By including the release date and price of magazine I have again conformed to conventions which ensure ease of navigation for the audience and allow key information in the context of purchase. I have used similar font to my masthead which pleases aesthetically as continuity is clear throughout. Also the size of font does not overpower the masthead’s dominance and it is clear the text is for administrative purposes only.

For the image of my magazine I feel I have used conventions in the sense that the image is dominant and is clear for the audience to establish an opinion on the purpose and the common content of the magazine. But by placing it in black and white, I have broken conventions as the image does not appear to be outstanding and colourful like so many standard images. To create this affect I have incorporated a bright and contrasting cover line. This therefore shows I have followed conventions in that respect.

In some ways I have followed conventions by incorporating cover lines but, I have used them in a different way than standard forms; I have opted to position my single cover line centrally to anchor my main image. This creates a dominant feel and focuses the audience’s attention on the main article and image combined. Also by placing it in a contrasting red colour with slight bordering I have enabled the text to stand out and draw attention to the image more. This affect creates continuity throughout my promotional package which conforms to conventions.Finally I have used a promotional footer on my magazine front

cover to make up for the lack of cover lines, this is a very conventional feature of magazine covers, as it offers the audience information about the content of the magazine without viewing the contents page. This allows for easy navigation and anticipation when in the purchasing context. Again by using continuity through my promotional package I have used contrasting black and white to grab the audience’s attention. Also the sizing doesn’t detract from the image itself and still allows for full viewing and understanding.

Overall I would say I have mainly followed conventions within my magazine front cover but by creating a continuous brand identity I feel I have broken some conventions in the way my format of text is arranged.

Jai Maw