Research & Planning: Conventions of Magazine Covers

Key:

1. Promotional banner
A promotional banner usually highlights a key reason for the target demographic to purchase a magazine. It is there to persuade people to buy it. In the example above, the promotional banner states that the current issue is "OUR BIGGEST ISSUE EVER". The capitalisation is also a common feature found on magazine covers, as it has more impact with readers. As well as this statement, the promotional banner also includes insights into the contents of the magazine; again in an effort to persuade people to purchase.

2. Masthead
The masthead of a magazine acts as a logo which identifies with the reader. It is usually consistent throughout issues, though occasionally some magazines like to change them to tie in with the theme of a particular issue. Mastheads carry the name of the magazine, in the example above this is 'Total Film'. Typically, these mastheads will span the width of the magazine and usually take up around 1/5 of the real estate of the cover. This is to add impact to the magazine and to make the name resonate more with the target demographic.

(!) Publication line
Whilst most magazines have a publication line, TotalFilm appears to not have one. This may be because of a creative decision to stray away from these conventions. I do not believe it is specific to film magazines though as rival film magazine Empire has the publication line "Film reviews, Movie News and Interviews".

3. Caption(s)
Captions provide the reader with a glimpse into the content of the magazine. As can be seen on the example above; captions have been used for the photograph thumbnails on the promotional banner. They describe features of the magazine such as film reviews, interviews and special editorials. Captions are often used beneath cover lines to give more information.

4. Feature Cover line
The feature cover line is usually the unique selling point for that particular issue. This may be an exclusive interview, a preview of a film or even special issues for films such as Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows or the new Hunger Games Catching Fire movie. The feature cover line is usually situated above the fold, and in a larger typeface than other cover lines. This is to make it stand out and ensure that readers see it when they skim across the newsstand.

5. Main Image
The main image usually accompanies the feature cover line. The almost always of the main character or characters in a film. Long shots are often used to create space for cover lines (as can be seen in the example above). Cover images cost a lot of money to produce. The expense is usually worth it as a cover image can make or break an issue of a magazine. This is why most cover images are reserved for star actors, such as Daniel Radcliffe or Jennifer Lawrence. Stars sell magazines.

6. Secondary Image(s)
Secondary images break up the cover of a magazine. They add more interest and keep the reader engaged and intrigued. They offer a glimpse into new films and the content of the magazine. Usually they are accompanied by captions and cover lines, which offer further information about that particular issue of a magazine.

7. Secondary Cover line(s)
Secondary cover lines give information about other features of the magazines. These may include interviews, film news or reviews etc. They often also portray columnist views and opinions as a method of inviting the reader to browse the magazine. Lists are used to gain attention and provide quick information to the reader.

8. Barcode
Quite self-explanatory, the barcode is an important aspect of the cover of a magazine as it is needed in the checkout process.

9. Issue Number/Publication Date
The issue number and publication date are displayed on almost all magazine covers. They let the reader know what issue they are reading, and if needed, they can refer back to it and find it a later date with ease.