Magazine research

 

                                                          Here is my research for my magazine

Reflection: I did my magazine research (2 detailed research on the front cover, and 4 less detailed on the double page spread). This research has helped me to understand and to know magazines terminology better and becoming more familiar with it as well as in analyzing the magazines target audience. Moreover, I become better on examining why different colors or typography is used in certain magazine to target their audience. However, I encountered some personal problems when finishing my work such as my time-management skill in a hectic week I rarely have some free time so I procrastinate my work a lot and leaving it before deadlines. However, thankfully I am able to finish my research. 

Front Cover Magazine 

1) 

This is a magazine called "Asri" magazine which Indonesia's portrayal of traditional identity in its content reflects a complex and multifaceted approach to cultural heritage. Through its editorial choices and visual elements especially from the color, Asri magazine manages to capture the essence of traditional values and practices while presenting them in a way that appeals to a modern audience. This duality is evident in its blend of vibrant and colorful imagery with insightful articles on traditional customs and craftsmanship, creating a visually engaging yet informative narrative. By embracing both the old and the new, Asri magazine Indonesia plays a significant role in shaping and preserving the country's cultural identity in the realm of modern media.

Demographic:

- Age: Middle age 

- Gender: Men and women who is interested or have passion in traditional architecture or furniture.

- Location: Indonesia

- Ethnicity: Balinese

- Income: High incomers

- Star Appeal: - 

Psychographic:

- Hobbies: Model making, sketching, and drawing

- Interests: Looking at furniture design and interior design 

- Lifestyle: Love to decorate, paying attention to details, networking and collaboration

- Spending habits: Spending on quality materials, decor and accessories

Uses & gratification:

- Surveillance: People usually read this magazine to gather some information as the strapline said that this magazine is the source of information and aspiration. I think it is very crucial to create a catchy strapline so that audiences can be engaged and interested with the magazine. Moreover, from only looking at the cover the audience will know that the magazine is about traditional interior design, the target audience for this magazine can be students that are interested in designs and willing to learn about Indonesia's interior design.

Further Analysis:

- Masthead: The masthead 'asri' uses the font italics this is used to create elegance or sophistication as italics can give the masthead a more refined and elegant appearance. Magazines aiming for a high-end or upscale image might use italics to convey a sense of sophistication.

-Typography: 

All of the text in the front cover of the magazine is using caps lock or all capital letter except for the masthead, this is usually used to differentiate the brand of the magazine and other information. The uses of capital letter can also be attention-grabbing as It can make the magazine front cover stand out more, which is particularly important on crowded newsstands.

2)

This is a vogue magazine that covers a British actress named Claire Foy, I really like how the color of the writings and also the color of the dress matches and creating balance. The bottom of cover line also very catchy to attract audiences who has interest in fashion or glamour. Moreover, the uses of italics in some writings represents style and aesthetics and to further differentiates from the main point which is the writings with the caps lock. 

Demographic:

- Age: Middle age 

- Gender: Women 

- Location: America

- Ethnicity: -

- Income: Middle class people 

- Star Appeal: Claire Foy 

Psychographic:

- Hobbies: Fashion and a little bit of politics 

- Interests: Looking at jewelries and clothes

- Lifestyle: People who is not really happy to stay in America and need some changes. One of the coverline mentions that 'Being a woman in Trump's America' in caps lock which shows that the magazine also wants to emphasize that topic. 

Uses & gratification:

- Surveillance: People usually read this magazine to gather some information as one of the coverline said 'Vogue's guide to fabulous' which could really peak the interest of women that wants to enhance their quality of life. Moreover, the cover bottom line also have a good hook as they mentions 'The return of glamour'  This would create curiosity. since it suggests that the magazine contains content related to glamour and perhaps a resurgence or revival of glamour in some way. This can encourage people to pick up the magazine to find out more. To add, readers will also expect that the content inside the magazine will be focused on glamour. They might anticipate articles, stories, or visuals that highlight glamorous people, fashion, lifestyles, or trends. I really like how the magazine uses such a word 'glamour' as it also creates aesthetic appeal. This teaches me to find a perfect hook word when i am dealing with my magazine. 

Further Analysis:

- Masthead: The masthead 'vogue' uses the color pink and this is usually aims towards women. 

-Typography: 

All of the text in the front cover of the magazine is either using capital letter or italics. The uses of capital letter is makes the magazine more effective for ensuring that the magazine's title or other critical information is easily readable and recognizable, even from a newsstand or shelf. Moreover, capital letters can give a modern and bold appearance to the cover, making it appear stylish, dynamic, and attention-grabbing. On the other hand, the uses of italics creates a different effect which sets the mood, since It can convey excitement, mystery, or a sense of exclusivity, depending on the context and content.

3) 

Masthead/Title: A-one, it is the brand of the magazine, the color's tone matches with the background to create a sense of warmth and also it is very catchy with the uses the color of red. 

Genre: Fashion and lifestyle

Demographic 

Age: around 30 - 50ish

Gender: Mostly women

Location: Asia

Ethnicity:

Income: Middle to upper 

Star appeal: Asian fashion model 

A-ONE Magazine Indonesia provides a captivating and insightful perspective on beauty as the main character is a middle aged woman who is very healthy and fit. The magazine includes a varied approach to its coverage of beauty, addressing both traditional and contemporary aspects of the subject. It skillfully balances textual and visual elements, combining articles with high-quality images, which not only make the content engaging but also cater to a wide readership. Furthermore, A-ONE Magazine demonstrates an acute understanding of its target audience, tailoring its content to resonate with Indonesian readers while embracing global beauty trends. The magazine's inclusive approach to beauty is particularly admirable, as it emphasizes diversity in terms of ethnicity, age, and gender.

Double's page: 

The A-ONE magazine double page spread on beauty in Indonesia exemplifies several key principles of media methodology. The layout and composition of the spread effectively employ visual and textual elements to engage the target audience. The use of high-quality, glossy images of Indonesian beauty icons and products conveys an aspirational aesthetic that aligns with the beauty standards of the culture. The choice of typography and color schemes is consistent with the magazine's overall branding, ensuring a cohesive visual identity. Moreover, the spread incorporates persuasive language, such as alluring captions and persuasive headlines, to establish a particular discourse on beauty, subtly guiding readers towards certain products or lifestyles.

Contents page: 

A - one magazine has a content page which is very vibrant and colorful which dominantly the color pink or red these conventions are used to target women. The uses of the images also very engaging with the audience especially people who are very interested in health and fashion. The contents page is also filled with pictures of models which implies that the readers would want to look like them or wanting to have some tips on how to be pretty and fit.

This special edition of the magazine goes beyond the surface of traditional beauty and fashion. By collaborating with the (RED) charity, ELLE underscores the importance of addressing global health crises, particularly the fight against HIV/AIDS. This comparison of high-end fashion and a charitable cause creates a powerful message that engages readers on multiple levels. The choice of Indonesia as the setting for this issue adds a unique cultural context, showcasing both local and international influences on fashion and beauty. Through an analysis of ELLE's (RED) issue, I can explore how media outlets can effectively combine the allure of fashion with a commitment to social change, highlighting the potential of magazines to educate and inspire their readers while making a positive impact on society.

From the cover page of the magazine it is aimed mostly towards middle aged women as from the coverlines the content written there will not engaged younger female audiences, moreover, the picture being represented also looks very simple. In the contents page, make up is being shown but not doesn't stands out since the color is more to calm color and not bright and vibrant color to create a sense of calmness about the topic the magazine is discussing about. Lastly, the double page mostly contains writing and only a big image at the top of the page, this really implies that the aim for this magazine is to provide information and educate the audiences about AIDS/HIV. Moreover, the uses of drop cap is also very simple which connotes the information being provided is a crucial information and is not very playful and fun. 

From the visual elements, the warm colors are often associated with the fall season, creating an immediate visual connection to the theme. These colors include shades of orange, brown, and yellow, which evoke the autumn atmosphere. The font that is similar to sans serif also often chosen for their clean and modern appearance. They lack the decorative strokes (serifs) found in serif fonts, making them more readable and suitable for contemporary design. The color, the choice of white for the font color is a high-contrast option against the warm-colored background, making the text stand out prominently. It ensures legibility and readability. Furthermore, the content page also has a lot of image which will further engages visual audiences with the contents they are providing. Lastly, the double page is talking about the diversity of Asia which is usually aimed to Asian or foreigners that wants to travel to Asia.

From the cover page with the sunset and temple in the background, it features warm, vibrant colors like green, oranges, and yellows, which convey a sense of tranquility and serenity. These colors can evoke feelings of awe and appreciation. In the coverline also mentions Bali's iconic tourist attraction and also Indonesia's exotic beaches which is usually aimed towards visitors that wants to go to Bali or Indonesia. Moreover, the double page includes the temple and also GWK in Bali which implies that this magazine is more towards traditional and culture which will engage audiences that are interested in learning about culture. Lastly, the contents page include the things that the readers could do in Bali and the pictures of nature will be very appealing to adventurous audiences.