Original photography
I used three different locations for my photoshoot and also a selection of poses, props and clothing. This helped me to add a unique and interesting spin on my photos, and lastly, gave me a variety of shots to choose from. It also allowed me to differentiate a shot for my cover, contents and double page spread, again keeping the audience interested with different images to look at. Many images use direct mode of adress allowing the audience to enjoy the shoot as much as lotte, and yet the images in which direct mode of address isnt used, are still as fun and "cheeky" as the others. I feel these different images will work equally as well as eachother on different pages of my magazine, yet also create very different effects.
Images to computer
Once I had taken all my images and uploaded them to the computer, I sorted them into types; close up shot, mid shot, long shot, outside shot, shot with pet. This organised approach allows me to concentrate on a specific areas, meaning my time is used more productively and efficiently.
Final pictures I have chosen to work with:
Evidence of manipulation of photographs:
The aim of this Photoshop session is to airbrush the models skin and reduce discolouration of the skin. This is the original image prior to any editing.
The page now looks very blurry, its time to manipulate the photograph by changing the Threshold to the maximum 255, and then changing the Radius so the face looks blurry, then I reduce the Threshold until the details are just about visible, I intend for the skin to still look very blurry, I click OK to confirm. |
Now I make a further copy of the original layer by pressing Cmd J, and move the new layer to the top of the layer list. I rename the new layer as “Details” by double clicking the text to edit. I will use this layer to restore details in the skin like texture and pores that will have been lost in the blurry 'Smoothness' layer. |
As a result of the editing so far, the skin looks flawless, but plastic/fake. As my model already has very clear skin, this isnt particularly obvious, however I would like to reduce the plastic look to create a more realistic finish, due to the ethics surrounding celebrities and the impact of overly airbrushed images on the young target audience. |
Now we’re going to adapt the colour of my models skin. First, it is necessary to group the layers I have already worked on to preserve the work I have done so far. I select the Details and Smoothness layer and press Cmd and G at the same time to group them. I double click the title of the group and rename it Airbrushing and add an 'inverted layer mask' to the group by holding the Alt key and pressing 'Add Layer Mask' button (the rectangle with the circle in) in the Layers panel. I ensure the foreground colour is set to white by clicking D on the keyboard.
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I then select the Brush tool on the left side of the page (selected as demonstrated in the picture above). The opacity is around 50% and I paint around the skin areas, I make the decision to lower the opacity as I realise 50% is too high and creating too much of a smooth, plastic finish, I adjust the opacity and continue at around 30-36%. As I paint, the airbrushing from the previous layer comes through to the unedited photo, creating a combined finish.
Skin tone: |
I want to edit the colour of the skin of my model, her skin is flawless but I would like to add more colour. I select the 'Eye Dropper' tool and hover over areas of her skin, I find a darker tone of the skin and decide this is the colour I would like to implement. I go to Layer, New Fill Layer, Solid Color and press ok, I change the blending mode to 'colour', found above the layers list on the right hand side of the screenshot above. I click on the layer mask and invert it by pressing Cmd+I. I select the brush tool on the left hand side above and paint the new darker colour over the skin. I adjust the opacity of the colour to work on the lighter and darker areas of the photo, for instance, I used a increased opacity in the areas where I natural shadow occurred like under her hair. To finalise, I renamed this layer to skin colour for reference.
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On the left hand side, I go to Edit, then Fill, and the right hand side demonstrates that I set the contents to 50% grey.
I click with two fingers on the hand icon on the left hand side and choose the burn tool, I then change 'Range' on the top of the screen to 'Midtones' I begin with the exposure at 50% but soon realise I must lower it to around 26% as 50% is far too intense. I now paint the areas to darken, the eye area, the eyebrows and jaw line and line on the neck to give definition and exaggerated pop convention finish. I then lighten areas by clicking on the hand icon again with two fingers and select the Dodge tool. Again I make sure the Range setting is set to Midtowns and again paint over the areas to lighten, the lip colour is heightened this way, the teeth are subtly whitened, whites of the eyes and areas where the light would naturally hit, such as the bridge of the nose.
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After editing, dodging and burning, the model has emphasised bones and features, her eyes are brighter, lip colour brighter and creates a 'pop' of colour, is less dull and therefore appropriate to the pop genre. Additionally the airbrush finish makes the image magazine worthy and believable.
Because I used 'Smart Filters' and 'Layer Masks', it is possible for me if necessary to go back into any of the edited layers and adjust the settings to get my desired finish. I learnt that as my model is very young, not to much airbrushing is necessary, I also realised due to her young age, it was possible to use stronger airbrushing as her skin is already good, it doesn't create a massive contrast. However, for an older person I may have to be especially conscious of the levels of opacity I use when airbrushing to avoid a a false look and still look realistic.
I will continue this process with all of my photos to edit and utilise the skills I have learnt.
The final result:
Because I used 'Smart Filters' and 'Layer Masks', it is possible for me if necessary to go back into any of the edited layers and adjust the settings to get my desired finish. I learnt that as my model is very young, not to much airbrushing is necessary, I also realised due to her young age, it was possible to use stronger airbrushing as her skin is already good, it doesn't create a massive contrast. However, for an older person I may have to be especially conscious of the levels of opacity I use when airbrushing to avoid a a false look and still look realistic.
I will continue this process with all of my photos to edit and utilise the skills I have learnt.
The final result:
Before
After
Further evidence of image manipulation in Photoshop:
Yellow channel editing:
The above sequence of photos, demonstrates a subtle skin retouching method I have not demonstrated before. This method uses the 'Yellow channel' to identify and reduce skin flaws. As demonstrated in image 2, I go to 'Image' across the top bar, to the first option 'Mode' and select the sixth option down; 'CMYK'. In the Channels panel on the right hand side where the layers are, press 'Channels' and select the 'Yellow channel'. I then selected the entire grey image (Cmd A) and then copied it (Cmd C) , I then 'stepped backward' until I was back at the very beginning (RGB mode rather than CMYK). I then created a new layer and pressed Cmd V to paste the grey version in. I now have both the original and the Yellow Channel image to hand.
Spot Healing Brush for eye bags and blemishes:
I copy of the image so far by pressing Cmd J. I move this layer to the top, rename it to 'Eye bags and blemishes', and select 'spot healing tool'.
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I drag the tool over the lines and small blemishes of the models face and neck.
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Although I like this effect, I realise the finish is too strong, so adjust the opacity to 62%, this gives the same finish but is less obviously edited.
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I save the work I have done so far, but keep them available for editing, by holding down the Cmd key, selecting all the layers, clicking with two fingers and choosing the option of 'Convert to Smart Object'. I rename the layer of work I have been working on so far as 'Original'. This means if I wish to come back and adjust the work I have done so far, I can easily do so, rather than repeatedly 'step backwards' or undoing and redoing my work. |
Airbrushing:
I copy the original layer and rename it to Smoothness. I select the smoothness layer and go to filter across the top bar, then Blur and Surface Blur.
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I set the threshold layer as high as possible, heighten the radius till the face is not visible, then lower the threshold again until the details become visible. I press ok to confirm.
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I make sure the Details layer is selected and go to Filter located on the bar at the top of the page, I then go down to Other and to High Pass. I need to adjust the radius settings until the details are just visible.
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I go to the 'Normal' dropbox above the layers panel and change the blending mode of the Details layer from Normal to Linear Light.
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I hold down the Cmd key and click on the Details and Smoothness layer at the same time to select them both, I then press the Cmd key and G key at the same time to group them, I then double click on where it says 'Group 1' and rename it to 'Airbrushing'. Doing this will save everything I have done so far, but allow me to come straight back to this point if I choose to adjust the work I have done. |
I add an inverted layer mask to the newly created Airbrushing group by holding down the Alt key and clicking the Add Layer Mask button (the rectangle with the circle in on the Layers panel).
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I check my foreground color is set to white, and then choose the Brush tool on the left hand side. I begin painting with an opacity of 50% but quickly undo what I have done and redo with a lowered opacity of 43%. I paint over all the skin areas and the airbrush finish comes through.
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Skin colour:
Now I would like to edit the skin colour of the model, I choose the Eye Dropper tool on the left side and choose a shade of skin I would like to use. I make sure the 'Sample' at the top says 'All layers' so I get an accurate, realistic colour.
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I click on the original picture in the layers panel and add a new Solid Colour adjustment layer by going to Layer, New Fill Layer, Solid Colour...
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Dodging and burning:
I go to the hand icon on the left hand side of the page, click with two fingers to see the options, and select the burn tool, I check that the Range setting in the options bar at the top is set to Midtones and exposure to 50%. I quickly realise this is much to high, and vary between 26% for the skin and 37% for the eyes and lips, as I want to accentuate these features. I paint the areas I want darkened. |
Now I want to lighten areas, I go back to the hand on the left hand side and use two fingers to click again which shows the options, this time I choose the Dodge tool. Again, I quickly ensure the Range setting at the top of the page is set to Midtones and paint the areas to lighten, such as the bridge of the nose, the centre of the lips and the whites of the eyes. |
I repeat the entire dodging process again with a new layer. This time I want to focus on lightening the background so it portrays a more pure white finish. I make the brush larger and reduce the hardness, and take time to brush around my subject and the background slowly whitens. I am now finished.
Before
After
Further evidence of image manipulation in Photoshop:
Yellow channel
I used the yellow channel to help me identify and eliminate skin flaws. The above photos demonstrate each step I took, the steps are the same as demonstrated on the previous photo edited. The first photo shows how I went to 'Image' across the top bar, to 'Mode' and to 'CMYK'. I press Channels on the right hand side and select the 'Yellow channel'. I select the entire grey image (Cmd A) and then copied it (Cmd C) , I then undid all these steps by pressing 'step backward' until I had the original image back in RGB mode. I created a new layer and pressed Cmd V to paste the grey layer in. I now have both the original and the Yellow Channel image listed on the right hand side.
Blemish tool
To use the blemish tool and eradicate blemishes and lines, I first make a duplicate of the image so far by pressing Cmd J. I move the copied image layer to the top of the list and rename it to 'Blemishes', I then zoomed into the lines and blemishes, selected the 'spot healing tool' and dragged my cursor over the areas I wanted to make disappear. Through this method, I managed to make the smile line on my models face look slimmer.
Airbrushing
I to copy the Original layer, rename it 'Details', drag it to the top of the list. I use the Details layer to restore the texture and details lost in the Smoothness layer. I select the details layer, go to Filter, Other and High Pass...
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I adjust the radius settings until the details are just visible. At the 'Normal' dropbox above the layers panel, I change the blending mode of 'Details' from Normal to Linear Light.
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I hold the Cmd key and click Details and Smoothness layer to select them both, I press Cmd and G to group them, I double click and rename it to 'Airbrushing'.
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I hold down the Alt key and click 'Add Layer Mask'. I double check my foreground color is white and select the Brush tool, I paint with an opacity of 33% over all the skin and the airbrush finish comes through.
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Skin colour
Dodging and burning
I then go to Edit, on the top bar, and choose Fill. On the window that pops up, I agree with the contents being 50% grey so press ok.
I repeat the process of creating a new layer and dodging, to lighten the background. This method allows me to slowly brighten the white of the background without losing the texture of the models hair etc.
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I decided to play with the contrast, saturation and vibrance levels on the left hand side to further increase the impact of the editing I have done.
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Before:
After:
Further evidence of image manipulation in Photoshop:
My third photo to edit is a mid shot, therefore I have more than just the face skin to focus on airbrushing. As the photo is not so close up, I will spend less time perfecting the face skin as there is less detail and more time on the arms and legs too. As a result, I will disregard the yellow channel editing technique I have used in my last two edits. |
Blemish tool
I copy the image (Cmd J), move the copied image to the top of the list, rename it 'blemishes', I then zoom in on the under eye lines, freckles and bruise on her thigh and wipe them away with the 'spot healing' tool. Getting rid of the bruise made a big difference to the picture.
Airbrushing
I go to filter, blur, surface blur, on the window that opens, I increase the threshold to capacity, adjust the radius so the face is blurry, and the lower the threshold again till the features of the face become visible.
I group the Detail and Smoothness layers by selecting them both whilst holding the Cmd button, then releasing and pressing Cmd and G at the same time, I double click the group name to rename it 'Airbrushing'.
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I add an inverted layer mask by holding down the Alt key and pressing the rectangle/circle icon in the bottom right corner, I then use a brush, adjusting the opacity as I go, to paint the airbrush finish from underneath onto key locations.
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Skin colour
Dodging and burning
Shooting material I used for the set
Canon Camera
I decided to use a Canon DSLR camera in order to ensure my pictures were of a high, professional standard, and of high quality. |
Plain white chair
This plain white chair was simple and yet effective in doing its job. It allowed me to create unique pictures with my model in different poses, and yet was plain enough to not take any attention away from my artist. |
Dog
I decided to use a dog in 3 of the images on my magazine. Dogs are stereo typically loving animals and have close bonds with their owner, this will suggest to my target audience that the article they will read shall be personal and intimate. |
A two page written article, accurately using language and register:
As Lotte enters our studio its evident she still brings energy and love everywhere she goes, despite the 6 months being under the radar. As the cupcakes and coffee sit between us, we spend hours asking all we can about our favourite singers time away.
So Lotte, where have you been in this space of time which feels like forever?
Haha, it’s lovely to hear you’ve missed me, and I’m so excited to be back, but in all reality I really needed some time to focus on myself, and my music, as an individual away from the spotlight. I realised I was losing my individuality through caring too much about what others thought of me, when actually, as long as you’re not hurting anyone, you can be exactly who you are and it doesn’t matter about anybody else! It was a perfect time for a break, my world tour was finished and, as everyone is aware, I was fresh out of a relationship, so although it sounds selfish, it was all me, me, me for a while and I feel so much better for it!
How has your break away influenced your next album?
Well, obviously you can expect one or two angry, (or should I say passionate!), breakup songs, but the majority of my album is about moving on, learning to live though even the biggest heartbreaks and appreciating the good things in life. This album is really just my journey over the last few months, and I haven’t kept anything secret. From now on it’s just me and my raw emotions, I have nothing to hide, and my aim is to help people like me overcome the difficult times life throws at us and focus on those who love us and care about us.
“From now on its just me and my raw emotions, I have nothing to hide”
Tell us about the inspiration for the name of your new album, ‘Sleeping Alone’.
Well at first I wasn’t sure ‘Sleeping Alone’ was the best title for my album, as it sounds fairly negative when the majority of my new songs are upbeat and cheerful, however my main aim with this album is to get the message across that it’s okay to sleep alone, and to change the view of being alone meaning you’re lonely, because that just isn’t true.
Will there be any surprise appearances for any duets in the new album?
You guys clearly know me well! I’m going to keep any special guests a secret until my singles are released. All I’m saying is a close, maybe ginger friend of mine, who I grew up with, may appear once or twice!
So Lotte, where have you been in this space of time which feels like forever?
Haha, it’s lovely to hear you’ve missed me, and I’m so excited to be back, but in all reality I really needed some time to focus on myself, and my music, as an individual away from the spotlight. I realised I was losing my individuality through caring too much about what others thought of me, when actually, as long as you’re not hurting anyone, you can be exactly who you are and it doesn’t matter about anybody else! It was a perfect time for a break, my world tour was finished and, as everyone is aware, I was fresh out of a relationship, so although it sounds selfish, it was all me, me, me for a while and I feel so much better for it!
How has your break away influenced your next album?
Well, obviously you can expect one or two angry, (or should I say passionate!), breakup songs, but the majority of my album is about moving on, learning to live though even the biggest heartbreaks and appreciating the good things in life. This album is really just my journey over the last few months, and I haven’t kept anything secret. From now on it’s just me and my raw emotions, I have nothing to hide, and my aim is to help people like me overcome the difficult times life throws at us and focus on those who love us and care about us.
“From now on its just me and my raw emotions, I have nothing to hide”
Tell us about the inspiration for the name of your new album, ‘Sleeping Alone’.
Well at first I wasn’t sure ‘Sleeping Alone’ was the best title for my album, as it sounds fairly negative when the majority of my new songs are upbeat and cheerful, however my main aim with this album is to get the message across that it’s okay to sleep alone, and to change the view of being alone meaning you’re lonely, because that just isn’t true.
Will there be any surprise appearances for any duets in the new album?
You guys clearly know me well! I’m going to keep any special guests a secret until my singles are released. All I’m saying is a close, maybe ginger friend of mine, who I grew up with, may appear once or twice!
Showing understanding of conventions of layout and page design and appropriately integrating illustration and text:
I understand it is important to competently understand conventions of layout and page design and appropriately integrate illustrations and text in order to create a professional, sleek and attractive magazine. If i can create a magazine which abides by conventions and coordinates illustration and text i will be likely to have a successful magazine. To the left if a Top of the Pops magazine, this magazine is attractive to very young people as the page is busy and full of colour, however it is unlikely to be successful for any other target audience as it looks messy, disorganized and therefore unprofessional and cheap.
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Showing awareness of the need for variety in fonts and texts size:
I will put my mast head and main cover line in a large size font such as size 42, this will grab the attention of the target audience and engage them, meaning they are more likely to purchase the magazine.
For the main body of my text, in specific reference to the double page spread article, I will use a size font between 12 and 14 in order to maximize the space and communicate the most information possible, but will still be eligible and therefore will not put the reader off.
For the main body of my text, in specific reference to the double page spread article, I will use a size font between 12 and 14 in order to maximize the space and communicate the most information possible, but will still be eligible and therefore will not put the reader off.
Practicing and playing with Photoshop tools, mock cover:
What I have learnt:
My first task when making my magazine front cover was choosing an image. I decided this was the best image as it uses direct mode of address, is a midshot, and is fun and enticing.
- My first problem i faced was the image being landscape and not portrait, this meant that the brick wall behind lotte would not stretch to the top of my page. To fix this i had to cut and copy a section of the wall above lotte's head and place it correctly at the top of the page, so as not to make it obvious.
- I decided that my masthead would be orange to match lotte's outfit and to help tie the whole front cover together, the font i decided to use was niagara engraved. To match the masthead with the colour of her dress a used the eye dropper tool.
- when it came to adding the cover lines i clicked text and added snippets of information for what will be in my magazine. I tried to keep my magazine relatively simplistic so as not to bombard the cover. This can be seen on many already established pop music magazines.
- Again, i used the eye dropper tool to match the blue cover lines with the colour of lottes parka, however, upon doing so i noticed the writing wasnt clear when overlapping the cover image, i therefore darkened the writing slightly in in order to have it clearer on the page.
- When looking at my finished piece i realised the writing would look better in the opposite colours. I swapped them around which allowed for the headline to stand out more. It also put more focus on the puff, which is a competition. Competitions were a clear favourite within my audience when answering my questionnaire and having one stand out will therefore encourage the purchase of my magazine if it is a clear focus on the cover of my magazine.
- When adding the price and issue of my magazine i decided to have it in white and faily small. The white allows the price to stand out and allows the reader to find it easily, however the small font ensures it is not the main focus of the magazine cover.
- I realised i did not airbrush or edit the image of my model, which would create a more professional finish. Therefore, in my real cover i will ensure to learn to do so and document my steps.
Final mock cover page:
Front cover:
For my masthead, I wanted to give a professional, yet quirky look, hence why I chose the Niagara Engraved font. This font was also used for my primary cover line and the name of the figure on my cover. This allowed for the whole cover to tie together and flow aesthetically, and also stand out from the secondary cover lines, drawing in the attention of the reader. My colour scheme included bold colours such as oranges and blues, which conforms to typical conventions of a pop magazine. Colours, however, were kept to a limited number so as to enhance the minimalistic and ultimately professional feel. My masthead is slightly covered by secondary cover lines, suggesting to the reader that the magazine is established enough to sell without the name on full display; this technique carries a high chance of persuading my reader to buy the magazine. I believe my masthead stands out, yet does not detract the attention from the model on the cover. I also believe it fits with the conventions of the pop genre. The date and price of my magazine was small and light so as not to attract the attention of the reader, but ensuring it was present for the benefit of the reader. If I was to edit my magazine cover I would ensure there was a strap line to inform the reader more and potentially secure more purchases of the magazine. I would also put an issue number on my magazine to keep my readers returning and to also suggest my magazine is a collector’s item.
In order to see both what my model was wearing and the expression on her face I decided to use a mid shot. It was important to get her costume within shot as fashion is important within the pop community, and the bright orange colour conformed to the conventions of pop. Furthermore, her facial expression is friendly and welcoming, enticing my target audience to read the magazine. The pose of my model suggests the magazine doesn’t take itself too seriously, and sets the tone for the interview.
For my masthead, I wanted to give a professional, yet quirky look, hence why I chose the Niagara Engraved font. This font was also used for my primary cover line and the name of the figure on my cover. This allowed for the whole cover to tie together and flow aesthetically, and also stand out from the secondary cover lines, drawing in the attention of the reader. My colour scheme included bold colours such as oranges and blues, which conforms to typical conventions of a pop magazine. Colours, however, were kept to a limited number so as to enhance the minimalistic and ultimately professional feel. My masthead is slightly covered by secondary cover lines, suggesting to the reader that the magazine is established enough to sell without the name on full display; this technique carries a high chance of persuading my reader to buy the magazine. I believe my masthead stands out, yet does not detract the attention from the model on the cover. I also believe it fits with the conventions of the pop genre. The date and price of my magazine was small and light so as not to attract the attention of the reader, but ensuring it was present for the benefit of the reader. If I was to edit my magazine cover I would ensure there was a strap line to inform the reader more and potentially secure more purchases of the magazine. I would also put an issue number on my magazine to keep my readers returning and to also suggest my magazine is a collector’s item.
In order to see both what my model was wearing and the expression on her face I decided to use a mid shot. It was important to get her costume within shot as fashion is important within the pop community, and the bright orange colour conformed to the conventions of pop. Furthermore, her facial expression is friendly and welcoming, enticing my target audience to read the magazine. The pose of my model suggests the magazine doesn’t take itself too seriously, and sets the tone for the interview.
Practicing and playing with Photoshop tools, mock contents page:
What I have learnt:
The image i chose for my contents page is a close-up. There is no direct mode of address and lotte is busy tightening her hair. This fun and playful image informs the reader of the tone of the magazine. In addition, lotte's slight look to the right gives the impression there is a lot more to come in the magazine, and a lot to look out for.
- To start off my contents page, i added the most obvious label "contents". This is to inform the reader of what page they are on and what they can expect to find. This page is important in securing final sales with the few readers who aren't necessarily sold through the front cover and have come to the contents oage to see whether they are interested in anything in the magazine. I chose to make this label blue to ensure it stands out. I wanted to make sure my magazine was flowing throughtout and therefore deciuded to make the contents label the same colour as on the font cover. To do this i did not need to use the eye dropper tool again, instead i wrote down the colour code from on the front cover and typed it in for this header.
- Next i added a puff/coverline. I wanted this to be noticeable, but not the main focus of this page and i therefore made the majority of words white, which is a neutral and yet bold colour at the same time. The coverline, "a burst of whats inside" is not only enticing in that it plays on the readers fear of missing out and gives them a want to know more about the magaizne, but it also allows the reader to know that this page only holds a snippet of information and as a result, sells the magazine adn the audience need to know the full stories. This coverline is also a play on words as it includes the title of my magazine, hence the word "burst" being the same orange colour as lotte's outfit.
- I added the logos of facebook, instagram and twitter to my contents page along with my magazines username for each. This will help promote my magazine online and give exclusive information to those who follow online.
Contents:
The placed the title for my contents page within the bottom left corner. This is because it was more necessary for me to give my reader the information within the magazine, keeping them intrigued and excited, rather than reinforce the page they are looking at.
My contents page was created with the same colour scheme as my front cover. This is keeping in with the house style and the consistency allows the magazine to flow throughout, giving a professional and comfortable feel for the reader.
The titles for the content within my magazine were all accompanied by a brief description, informing the reader of what the article would be about. This is to further encourage the reader to open the magazine by giving them only enough information to be intrigued and wish to read on. The page numbers are in a bold blue, being the focal point for the reader, and the accompanying descriptions are white. This is so the attention, and the following hype isn’t taken away from the image of Lotte, the main reason for the reader to buy the magazine.
Social media is a large influence within my target audience, and therefore the logos for each platform my magazine is present on was placed down the top right side odf the contents page, being easily noticeable by readers.
Lotte is again the main cover line, and her image covers the whole page. This is to keep up the hype around her interview, and keep the majority of readers happy as Lotte was the main selling point, suggesting she is what the reader wants to see the most.
If I could change one thing on my contents page i would have the main image and cover line stand out a lot more.
The placed the title for my contents page within the bottom left corner. This is because it was more necessary for me to give my reader the information within the magazine, keeping them intrigued and excited, rather than reinforce the page they are looking at.
My contents page was created with the same colour scheme as my front cover. This is keeping in with the house style and the consistency allows the magazine to flow throughout, giving a professional and comfortable feel for the reader.
The titles for the content within my magazine were all accompanied by a brief description, informing the reader of what the article would be about. This is to further encourage the reader to open the magazine by giving them only enough information to be intrigued and wish to read on. The page numbers are in a bold blue, being the focal point for the reader, and the accompanying descriptions are white. This is so the attention, and the following hype isn’t taken away from the image of Lotte, the main reason for the reader to buy the magazine.
Social media is a large influence within my target audience, and therefore the logos for each platform my magazine is present on was placed down the top right side odf the contents page, being easily noticeable by readers.
Lotte is again the main cover line, and her image covers the whole page. This is to keep up the hype around her interview, and keep the majority of readers happy as Lotte was the main selling point, suggesting she is what the reader wants to see the most.
If I could change one thing on my contents page i would have the main image and cover line stand out a lot more.
Practicing and playing with Photoshop tools, mock double page spread:
What I have learnt:
In total, i chose four images for my double page spread. The main image is again a playful image of lotte, but in a different location to the cover image and with the use of a chair as a prop. The hand gesture she uses is common within the pop industry highlighting the genre of the magazine. The three images placed at angles are all very similar but each show different characteristics of lotte. This gives the reader the impression they are seeing a lot more of lotte than they usually do and that this is therefore an exclusive interview.
- To begin my double page spread i used photoshop. This is due to photoshop being a better piece of software for editing and adapting photos.
Double page spread
Personally, I believe my double page spread has the right amount of business on the page. This is due to the minimalistic look still being present, yet there are secondary images and cover lines to excite the audience, give them extra information and get them talking about the magazine. The main image is welcoming, giving the page a good vibe.
The pull quote matches both the fonts and colour scheme which runs through the magazine, allowing it to tie together nicely. Furthermore, the pull quote is open and honest suggesting the interview will be full of intimate and personal details, encouraging the reader to want to know more and read on.
The puff bring further hype around my magazine and again gets the audience talking both in person and on social media and they are all interested in winning the competition. This not only brings my magazine more popularity but also solidifies the sale of the magazine if it hasn’t been purchased already.
The kicker at the top of the page gives the reader a brief understanding on what information they are about to read, so as not to cause any confusion. I used the both regular and bold font for my article, making it easier to read and aesthetically pleasing, the colour scheme stays the same throughout however to keep the house style, and again adding to the aesthetic and minimalistic image. The gutters for my block of text were wider, again ensuring the article was easy to read.
Personally, I believe my double page spread has the right amount of business on the page. This is due to the minimalistic look still being present, yet there are secondary images and cover lines to excite the audience, give them extra information and get them talking about the magazine. The main image is welcoming, giving the page a good vibe.
The pull quote matches both the fonts and colour scheme which runs through the magazine, allowing it to tie together nicely. Furthermore, the pull quote is open and honest suggesting the interview will be full of intimate and personal details, encouraging the reader to want to know more and read on.
The puff bring further hype around my magazine and again gets the audience talking both in person and on social media and they are all interested in winning the competition. This not only brings my magazine more popularity but also solidifies the sale of the magazine if it hasn’t been purchased already.
The kicker at the top of the page gives the reader a brief understanding on what information they are about to read, so as not to cause any confusion. I used the both regular and bold font for my article, making it easier to read and aesthetically pleasing, the colour scheme stays the same throughout however to keep the house style, and again adding to the aesthetic and minimalistic image. The gutters for my block of text were wider, again ensuring the article was easy to read.
Final cover, contents page and double page spread
Front cover
Contents page
Double page spread
Final product and my thoughts
Magazine cover
I set out to achieve a unique look as i had a strong desire for my product to be different from already well established magazines, which supported the request from my target audience. This, in my view, confirms there was a large gap in the market for such a style. In addition, I wanted to create a brand which is reflective of myself, giving a feel of being engaging, personal and speaking directly to the reader.
Upon looking at my final cover design I was extremely happy as i was successful in achieving a brand/format which is evidently different from the present magazines on the market, and spoke directly to the reader with the use of colours, mixed with puffs.
In order to maintain my chosen house style I varied my fonts, colours and images, yet ensured they all complimented one another, thus allowing a look which was aesthetically pleasing and engaging for my target audience.
Throughout my research I discovered that well established pop magazines were either plain, simplistic and bland, or cluttered, chaotic and overwhelming. Therefore I understood it would be a challenge to achieve a house style which would be unique, professional, fall in between these two examples, and yet maintain the suggestions and requests of my target audience.
Overall, I am happy with my final magazine cover as my goal has been achieved, however, after reviewing my cover more recently I feel there are some changes I could make to further improve on my success.
In example:-
-By using a higher contrasting colour on the cover text this would allow for a more eye catching appearance. Furthermore, I could enhance the genre throughout with the use of bright colours. The colours I would select are yellows and whites as these connote joy, summer and being uplifted, enthusiastic and full of life, these are themes running throughout my magazine. Moreover, the summer like colours are a vivid and major contrast to the funky, retro 1970s pop style where the reds and blues are lifting off the page.
-Secondly, I would add some boarders to the magazine as this supports the reader by keeping their focus on different sections and topics within the magazine, allowing their eyes to easily scan to decide between the longer pieces of text, and the short, sharp, snappy texts which they can easily swift on from. This would keep the reader both relaxed and engaged for both short or longer periods of time. Extending this further than borders, I would implement the use of more puffs for the same reason highlighted above. Puffs are aesthetically pleasing and engaging to the eye, enticing the reader to be drawn in to the secret or latest piece of gossip.
Upon looking at my final cover design I was extremely happy as i was successful in achieving a brand/format which is evidently different from the present magazines on the market, and spoke directly to the reader with the use of colours, mixed with puffs.
In order to maintain my chosen house style I varied my fonts, colours and images, yet ensured they all complimented one another, thus allowing a look which was aesthetically pleasing and engaging for my target audience.
Throughout my research I discovered that well established pop magazines were either plain, simplistic and bland, or cluttered, chaotic and overwhelming. Therefore I understood it would be a challenge to achieve a house style which would be unique, professional, fall in between these two examples, and yet maintain the suggestions and requests of my target audience.
Overall, I am happy with my final magazine cover as my goal has been achieved, however, after reviewing my cover more recently I feel there are some changes I could make to further improve on my success.
In example:-
-By using a higher contrasting colour on the cover text this would allow for a more eye catching appearance. Furthermore, I could enhance the genre throughout with the use of bright colours. The colours I would select are yellows and whites as these connote joy, summer and being uplifted, enthusiastic and full of life, these are themes running throughout my magazine. Moreover, the summer like colours are a vivid and major contrast to the funky, retro 1970s pop style where the reds and blues are lifting off the page.
-Secondly, I would add some boarders to the magazine as this supports the reader by keeping their focus on different sections and topics within the magazine, allowing their eyes to easily scan to decide between the longer pieces of text, and the short, sharp, snappy texts which they can easily swift on from. This would keep the reader both relaxed and engaged for both short or longer periods of time. Extending this further than borders, I would implement the use of more puffs for the same reason highlighted above. Puffs are aesthetically pleasing and engaging to the eye, enticing the reader to be drawn in to the secret or latest piece of gossip.
Magazine contents page
I am pleased with the quality of my work throughout my tasks, however I feel the contents page I have created is not as high standard as all my other pieces. This is due to my font and colour choices which prevent a bold, eye-catching page. For example, the font i have used to show page numbers are not clear enough and therefore make it difficult and challenging for the reader to access the information they are looking for quickly enough.
On the other hand, the layout with the headings and information show plenty of detail and suggests my magazine will be packed with stories. The short snippets of information are enough to entice my reader and yet not spoil the read and this, through my research, I know is something my target audience strongly appreciate.
On the other hand, the layout with the headings and information show plenty of detail and suggests my magazine will be packed with stories. The short snippets of information are enough to entice my reader and yet not spoil the read and this, through my research, I know is something my target audience strongly appreciate.
Centre page spread
In reviewing my final magazine, although pleased, when looking at my centre page spread I became aware of some minor edits which I would change going forward. Such as, during further research I noted a professional, well established magazine would use page numbers and may place these at the bottom centre of the pages.
on reflection, by not accidentally overlooking this small but necessary detail I would have enhanced the overall professionalism of the final look of my magazine. Given the opportunity to make alterations to my magazine, this simple yet effective detail is certainly something I would aim to complete and I am saddened it had skipped my attention.
Furthermore, whilst reviewing the centre page spread I feel there is a need for additional secondary images included with text, giving the appearance of providing more information to the reader which would suggest they are getting more value for there money and suggests a quality, informative product.
Finally, I would add and make use of contrasting colours on the heading column in order to highlight the conversation between interviewer and interviewee. This subtle change would enhance the amount of information on the page, whilst supporting the reader in accessing information easily.
on reflection, by not accidentally overlooking this small but necessary detail I would have enhanced the overall professionalism of the final look of my magazine. Given the opportunity to make alterations to my magazine, this simple yet effective detail is certainly something I would aim to complete and I am saddened it had skipped my attention.
Furthermore, whilst reviewing the centre page spread I feel there is a need for additional secondary images included with text, giving the appearance of providing more information to the reader which would suggest they are getting more value for there money and suggests a quality, informative product.
Finally, I would add and make use of contrasting colours on the heading column in order to highlight the conversation between interviewer and interviewee. This subtle change would enhance the amount of information on the page, whilst supporting the reader in accessing information easily.