Photographs

I have created a slideshow to present my the photographs I have taken for my magazine front cover. Although I wasn't able to use different backgrounds for my images (because the background of the magazine will be a solid colour), I did experiment with different make-up, hair and clothing styles as well as different angles, shots and lighting.

November/December feedback

Poses from magazine covers

I have found some poses from music magazine front covers, mainly indie magazines, that will help me when I take the pictures for my final magazine.

Main image conventions

All of the subjects in the main images above have used direct mode of address. They have done this to engage with the audience and make them feel welcome.

The background colour differs because of the different issues but they are all plain and simple using both light and dark colours. They have used these colours to make the subject and masthead stand out and ensure that the magazine isn't overcrowded.

All of the magazine covers use a medium close up shot so that the emotion of the subject is captured but also so that the audience can still see some of the clothing the model is wearing.

All but one of the models' expressions are very serious and stern to create a sense of mystery that could intrigue the audience. The model that is smiling does seem more inviting though.

4 of the covers use high key lighting to make the cover well lit with few shadows. this is used to make the model seem friendlier. However, the other 4 covers use low key lighting to create a dangerous and sultry atmosphere because of the dim lighting and shadows.

The audience can only see part of the models' costumes due to the type of shot used but all of the tops seem very neutral, some quite formal.

The angle of all of the covers is eye level to make the reader feel as though they are at the same level as the main subject. 

Photo planning

I have filled in a table to help me decide the style of my photos. I have talked about various different looks, lighting and poses which I will try when I take my draft photos.

Main image research

Here I have made a collage of styles of makeup, hair and clothes that I think would be appropriate for my model and magazine genre.

Lighting:
The lighting of images can heavily influence how an image looks and whether it is appropriate for the audience and genre or even if it is appealing or not. Because of this I will try different types of lighting when taking photos for my main image and decide which is best based on my opinion, my model's opinion and my audience's opinion.

High key lighting - this will appropriate for my magazine because my colour scheme is light, pastel colours so the lighting will be consistent and will match the rest of my magazine due to the white background. However, this lighting can make the model of my magazine looked washed out which affects the quality of the image.

Low key lighting - this lighting contrasts the light, pastel colours of my magazine but can also make the magazine too dark or look quite grungy which would suit a rock or alternative music genre rather than an indie magazine.

Chiaroscuro lighting - this will add a dramatic effect to my front cover but can add a horror-like tone because of the drastic shadows and darkness. 

Treatment plan

I have completed this document explaining the contents of my magazine to give a brief overview of what my final magazine will be like. I have talked about representations, content, design, etc.