Codes and conventions of magazine covers

                                                                                                                                                                     Masthead-The font used will be characteristic to each magazine which will make it instantly recognizable to readers, most mastheads will be in a simple font which makes it clear and easy to read but it will often still be bold and colorful which will make it stand out.

Tag Lines-Small lines that are used to draw the audience in an example of one would be a magazine having the word ‘untouchable’ which gives the idea that this magazine is superior to their magazines.

Cover Lines-Larger than tag lines and usually give the reader an insight into what the magazine is going to contain on the inside, for example they may have a famous person’s name as they know this will attract their target audience.

Central image-By having a central image it draws the reader in before they even have a chance to read the cover lines, especially if the person on the cover is globally famous. Many magazines will also use direct address by having the cover photo looking directly into the camera, this makes the reader feel as though they are being looked at which will draw them into the magazine.

Header-The header will often have a date on it for when it was issued, this shows that they have a loyal audience which could encourage new readers into assuming that they’re reading a popular magazine and should join the loyal audience.