Analysis of existing magazines CONTENTS 2

This contents page is not like any other. The layout of the pictures, that anchor the subheadings, is very effective. It shows a different twist from what we would expect from a conventional contents page. The pages are not listed but are in a northern soul 60’s format. This way of presenting a contents page is different and exciting, which is effective because the reader will read the entire page. Additionally this page opens the magazine and because it’s so different, people are made to read more to see what else the magazine has to offer.

The numbers on the contents page stand out as they are on white space, this is effective as it navigates the reader around the page. Furthermore the fonts are all different. The masthead is central and in a traditional serif font. This is effective as it is traditional and looks vintage which will address their audience of mods and northern soul enthusiasts. The other fonts and typography change from bold sans serif fonts, to normal serif fonts, and to normal sans serif fonts. This is different to anything I have ever seen before in a contemporary magazine which is effective as it stands out from the other magazines. Furthermore this use of typography is effective as it shows that the magazine is different and individual.

The mode of this magazine is formal, and the use of quotes to introduce each feature is effective. This is because the reader can relate to the article and be encouraged to read it. Some of the quotes are from the artists themselves, making the mode of address very personal and first hand, which is effective as reader feels comfortable reading the magazine. The photos are anchored by the headlines which make them easier to read, and better understood. It’s easy them if you are a reader to understand a photo.

The images are a mixture between black and white and full colour. This is effective as like the typography, it is different and shows that the magazine is unique. The black and white images are effective because they show the northern soul movement from the black and white photographs to photographs in full colour. This is effective as it shows that the magazine covers all aspects of the northern soul movement. Additionally, the 60’s theme is carried on though the layout of the pictures. The single photographs almost look like polaroid photographs which is old fashioned, yet now is retro and ‘cool’. Which is effective because the audience will feel like this magazine rebels against conventions therefore is are encouraged to buy it, and experience something different.