Tuesday, 31 January 2017
Photoshoot Planning
In the above Prezi, I have organized what my model will wear, how her hair and makeup will be done, where the photoshoot is and what props will be used. I wanted to create this, so I am prepared for the photoshoot, and try and prevent having to go and get some more images if it goes wrong.
Magazine Flat Plan
Front Cover
Colour Usage: On the front cover, I am aiming to use a maximum of 4 colours, pink, purple, mustard and teal. I am only using a small amount of colours due to the genre and style of the magazine I am wanting to create. From the research I did, I know that the most popular fashion and lifestyle magazines only have a small running house theme. For example, Elle, uses only one main colour, and a pop of another colour. I think this is a good product to compare my magazine to as it follows the same conventions I want my magazine to have, even though it is an international magazine. I have chosen my colour scheme to include a dusty pink and burgundy purple. I personally like these colours, therefore think they will fit in well for my female magazine. Pink and purples connote pretty flowers and girly perfumes, which is things my target audiences like. I wanted to add a pop of colour, so I chose a striking mustard/ yellow colour. I chose this as it connects well with the other colours I have picked. The colour yellow represents the sun and happiness, which is how I want my readers to feel when they read my magazine, happy. Finally, I have also included a beige and light teal on my colour scheme board, however I am unsure whether I will use them on my front cover.
Image Usage: I will have one main image on the front cover, which will be of a beautiful female in a natural position with a Invitational facial expression. I feel like this will really make her eyes and natural beauty stand out. The image will be either a medium close- up or a close- up shot, as this camera angle is commonly used on front covers. I want the model to be in fashionable high street clothing. I haven't decided what colour this will be yet, but I am planning to take different outfits on the day of my image photo shoot. I want her makeup to be simplistic but also connecting with the house theme colours, so maybe a pink lipstick to add a pop of colour to the plain look. Furthermore, I have not decided how I want to style my models hair yet, but I will be practising different styles a couple of days before the photoshoot. I want everything to connect to a North East female, but also have a general connection with females and beauty. Furthermore, I have not yet decided the colour of the background, but I am taking my images on a plain, white background, therefore I can decide whether the simplistic background is suitable, or whether I should add some graphics, such as fading from pink to white etc. I think this will add complexity and interest to my front cover, although I do not want it to look too cluttered, therefore I will decide when designing the page.
Text Usage: On the front cover, I aim to use a bunch of different words to captivate the audience. I have not yet decided what stories will be featured, but I will ensure they use language that will attract my target audience. Additionally, I aim to use the word 'win' in the puff, offering a lucky winner tickets for a concert in the North East, or a voucher for a high street store like Topshop, or River Island. I think by using the word 'win' will interest teenagers as most don't have a lot of spare disposable income, therefore anything they could win in the North East locally is a bonus. This may attract a wider target audience, especially if the prize I offer to giveaway is a good one that people outside my primary target audience would be interested in. Lastly, I aim to use special terminology that girls in the North East understand, this will make them feel connected to my magazine.
Layout and Font Usage: My regional fashion and lifestyle magazine will hold all of the normal conventions of a front cover, however I will make it clear as to what genre it is. I will do this by the use of cover lines and the main image. I will place the masthead at the top of the page as it will be the first word you come across when seeing the front cover. I will make sure this is in an attractive font, but still convey the feelings of elegance and fashion. I am yet to decide the colour of my masthead, but I will be designing it soon, and will probably ask my Facebook group on their thoughts. There will be a banner at the top suggesting to viewers to look on my website for new information, or the latest gossip. Hopefully this will increase my audience, as looking online may be easier for some people, other than actually purchasing my magazine. This will add professionalism to my magazine and make it more realistic too. I will then include my web address, date and issue number underneath the masthead, as I think this is a good place to locate important information. This is also seen on other fashion magazines, therefore will hopefully make mine look skilled like the others. Moreover, I will feature three to four cover lines down the left hand side of the page, this then applies to the Rule of Thirds, and will attract the audience when my magazine is on a stand. I will make sure they are interesting stories and the font will be a one I use throughout the production. I think it needs to be quite simplistic and modern, connoting with how my magazine will be 'trendy and fashionable'. If I decide to illustrate the background, then the cover lines will be white. I think this will add contrast to my page, and make the font stand out, which is what I want. Additionally, I will place a puff underneath the masthead promoting a competition inside. I'm yet to decide what the shape of the puff and the colour, but I hope it attracts more individuals when they glance at my magazine. The main cover line will be aligned to the right of the page, in the middle of the main image. This will be larger than the other sell lines, as it will connect with the model on the front. I want it to be obvious that bother are intertwined. The font and colour will be the same as the other cover lines, however will stand out because of the size. On the bottom left of the page will be the magazine institution. This will help my institution get more recognition in the media world. Lastly, the barcode will be situated at the bottom right hand side of the page. I was debating putting it underneath the masthead, however decided against this because the magazine information looked better there. I am going to generate my own barcode on an internet website, so it is specialised for my work. This convention is seen on almost 210,000 magazine throughout the World, therefore it would look highly unprofessional if I did not have one on my front cover.
Contents Page
Colour Usage: On the contents page, my aim is to incorporate the same colours that I used on the front cover, so I have a running house thee. I have not yet decided on what colours I will use for each convention on the page, however I do know what the masthead featured on the contents will be identical to the one on the front cover. I think the headline will be in either white, to contrast from a colourful background, or black. I also want to add a border around the page in the colour mustard, as I think this will add a running theme throughout my pages, as the colours connect. Furthermore, the date and the page number will be in either black or white, depending on the background. On the content of the magazine, I will have the writing in black, and the page number in a house theme colour, just so everything follows a specific theme.
Image Usage: The images I use on the contents page will connect with the cover lines on the front cover. For example, the main image will be of the cover model, however in a different body position that the cover. This will signify synergy throughout my magazine. I want the model to be more relaxed than the front cover, such as smiling or a mug shot. She will also have the same makeup and hair style as the main image on the cover. The secondary images will be of makeup or a place you have to visit in the North East, which may connect with the cover lines featured on the front cover and contents. I am still not 100% positive that secondary images will be used as a member of my target audience, said in an interview that she preferred one main image.
Text Usage: Again, I have not yet decided what content will be featured on this page, however I know that the language I use has to be aimed towards my target audience. From my research, I understand that most people want to read about regional fashion and celebrity gossip, therefore I will try and include as many articles about this on the contents page. For example, "Top 10 fashion items in the North East now", "Best places to eat when on a budget", and "Who's coming to perform in the North East soon?".
Layout and Font Usage: The layout for my contents page is inspired by international fashion magazines such as Vogue, Elle and Cosmopolitan. They are very minimalistic compared to other genres of magazines (e.g. rock- Q Magazine). I think by it being simple really emphasises the primary and secondary images. I placed the masthead and contents page at the top so it will be easily recognisable when flicking to this page.
Double Page Spread
Colour Usage: I aim to incorporate the whole house theme on this double page spread. I would like the article headline to be in a pink colour, as well as the quotes on the main image. I feel as though this will add a pop of colour, considering the text and background will either be black or white. I may also add a quite between the article text, and this will be in the pink colour too, just so it follows the same theme. i want the background of the double page spread to be in white, as I feel like the contrast will be too harsh if its any other colour. Furthermore, I aim to follow the same colour shame when taking images of my model, so it all fits together. The page number and date will be in a basic colour of black, so it is easily visible.
Image Usage: I am planning on using one main image on the left page, as I think this will add more effect to the article. Most fashion double page spreads only contain one image, therefore I want to follows this trend. I want the model to be dressed in casual clothes, as this is the style I am going for throughout my magazine. I want her clothing to be a simple colour, as I think it would make the page look childish and unprofessional if she had something on that neon coloured and in your face bright. The model will also have silver or gold jewellery on, so it adds accessories to her outfit.
Text Usage: The text on this page will be very informative towards my target audience. I am aiming on producing a interview/ story article, therefore it will interest people that enjoy reading stories or interviews. I also plan on using words that connect with the audience, therefore they will feel more involved with my magazine. I am yet to write the double page spread article, but when I do (which is soon), I plan on it being very detailed, using a lot of teenage girl slang.
Layout and Font Usage: The layout will be very simplistic, as I don't think fashion articles are cluttered. They always look modern, which is how I want mine to be. The main image will take up most of the left page, and I will also feature the headline on that side too. This is so the right page doesn't look too full with the text on it too. On the right, I will use three columns to include the text in, I think this makes the double page spread look very professional and is used in most fashion magazines. The font used will be very modern and bold, as the colour will be quite feminine. For the article headline, I want it to be in the purple colour, as I think it will look bold on the page.
Colour Usage: On the front cover, I am aiming to use a maximum of 4 colours, pink, purple, mustard and teal. I am only using a small amount of colours due to the genre and style of the magazine I am wanting to create. From the research I did, I know that the most popular fashion and lifestyle magazines only have a small running house theme. For example, Elle, uses only one main colour, and a pop of another colour. I think this is a good product to compare my magazine to as it follows the same conventions I want my magazine to have, even though it is an international magazine. I have chosen my colour scheme to include a dusty pink and burgundy purple. I personally like these colours, therefore think they will fit in well for my female magazine. Pink and purples connote pretty flowers and girly perfumes, which is things my target audiences like. I wanted to add a pop of colour, so I chose a striking mustard/ yellow colour. I chose this as it connects well with the other colours I have picked. The colour yellow represents the sun and happiness, which is how I want my readers to feel when they read my magazine, happy. Finally, I have also included a beige and light teal on my colour scheme board, however I am unsure whether I will use them on my front cover.
 |
| Flat Plan of Front Cover |
Text Usage: On the front cover, I aim to use a bunch of different words to captivate the audience. I have not yet decided what stories will be featured, but I will ensure they use language that will attract my target audience. Additionally, I aim to use the word 'win' in the puff, offering a lucky winner tickets for a concert in the North East, or a voucher for a high street store like Topshop, or River Island. I think by using the word 'win' will interest teenagers as most don't have a lot of spare disposable income, therefore anything they could win in the North East locally is a bonus. This may attract a wider target audience, especially if the prize I offer to giveaway is a good one that people outside my primary target audience would be interested in. Lastly, I aim to use special terminology that girls in the North East understand, this will make them feel connected to my magazine.
Layout and Font Usage: My regional fashion and lifestyle magazine will hold all of the normal conventions of a front cover, however I will make it clear as to what genre it is. I will do this by the use of cover lines and the main image. I will place the masthead at the top of the page as it will be the first word you come across when seeing the front cover. I will make sure this is in an attractive font, but still convey the feelings of elegance and fashion. I am yet to decide the colour of my masthead, but I will be designing it soon, and will probably ask my Facebook group on their thoughts. There will be a banner at the top suggesting to viewers to look on my website for new information, or the latest gossip. Hopefully this will increase my audience, as looking online may be easier for some people, other than actually purchasing my magazine. This will add professionalism to my magazine and make it more realistic too. I will then include my web address, date and issue number underneath the masthead, as I think this is a good place to locate important information. This is also seen on other fashion magazines, therefore will hopefully make mine look skilled like the others. Moreover, I will feature three to four cover lines down the left hand side of the page, this then applies to the Rule of Thirds, and will attract the audience when my magazine is on a stand. I will make sure they are interesting stories and the font will be a one I use throughout the production. I think it needs to be quite simplistic and modern, connoting with how my magazine will be 'trendy and fashionable'. If I decide to illustrate the background, then the cover lines will be white. I think this will add contrast to my page, and make the font stand out, which is what I want. Additionally, I will place a puff underneath the masthead promoting a competition inside. I'm yet to decide what the shape of the puff and the colour, but I hope it attracts more individuals when they glance at my magazine. The main cover line will be aligned to the right of the page, in the middle of the main image. This will be larger than the other sell lines, as it will connect with the model on the front. I want it to be obvious that bother are intertwined. The font and colour will be the same as the other cover lines, however will stand out because of the size. On the bottom left of the page will be the magazine institution. This will help my institution get more recognition in the media world. Lastly, the barcode will be situated at the bottom right hand side of the page. I was debating putting it underneath the masthead, however decided against this because the magazine information looked better there. I am going to generate my own barcode on an internet website, so it is specialised for my work. This convention is seen on almost 210,000 magazine throughout the World, therefore it would look highly unprofessional if I did not have one on my front cover.
Contents Page
Colour Usage: On the contents page, my aim is to incorporate the same colours that I used on the front cover, so I have a running house thee. I have not yet decided on what colours I will use for each convention on the page, however I do know what the masthead featured on the contents will be identical to the one on the front cover. I think the headline will be in either white, to contrast from a colourful background, or black. I also want to add a border around the page in the colour mustard, as I think this will add a running theme throughout my pages, as the colours connect. Furthermore, the date and the page number will be in either black or white, depending on the background. On the content of the magazine, I will have the writing in black, and the page number in a house theme colour, just so everything follows a specific theme.
 |
| Flat Plan of Contents Page |
Image Usage: The images I use on the contents page will connect with the cover lines on the front cover. For example, the main image will be of the cover model, however in a different body position that the cover. This will signify synergy throughout my magazine. I want the model to be more relaxed than the front cover, such as smiling or a mug shot. She will also have the same makeup and hair style as the main image on the cover. The secondary images will be of makeup or a place you have to visit in the North East, which may connect with the cover lines featured on the front cover and contents. I am still not 100% positive that secondary images will be used as a member of my target audience, said in an interview that she preferred one main image.
Text Usage: Again, I have not yet decided what content will be featured on this page, however I know that the language I use has to be aimed towards my target audience. From my research, I understand that most people want to read about regional fashion and celebrity gossip, therefore I will try and include as many articles about this on the contents page. For example, "Top 10 fashion items in the North East now", "Best places to eat when on a budget", and "Who's coming to perform in the North East soon?".
Layout and Font Usage: The layout for my contents page is inspired by international fashion magazines such as Vogue, Elle and Cosmopolitan. They are very minimalistic compared to other genres of magazines (e.g. rock- Q Magazine). I think by it being simple really emphasises the primary and secondary images. I placed the masthead and contents page at the top so it will be easily recognisable when flicking to this page.
Double Page Spread
Colour Usage: I aim to incorporate the whole house theme on this double page spread. I would like the article headline to be in a pink colour, as well as the quotes on the main image. I feel as though this will add a pop of colour, considering the text and background will either be black or white. I may also add a quite between the article text, and this will be in the pink colour too, just so it follows the same theme. i want the background of the double page spread to be in white, as I feel like the contrast will be too harsh if its any other colour. Furthermore, I aim to follow the same colour shame when taking images of my model, so it all fits together. The page number and date will be in a basic colour of black, so it is easily visible.
 |
| Flat Plan of Double Page Spread |
Text Usage: The text on this page will be very informative towards my target audience. I am aiming on producing a interview/ story article, therefore it will interest people that enjoy reading stories or interviews. I also plan on using words that connect with the audience, therefore they will feel more involved with my magazine. I am yet to write the double page spread article, but when I do (which is soon), I plan on it being very detailed, using a lot of teenage girl slang.
Layout and Font Usage: The layout will be very simplistic, as I don't think fashion articles are cluttered. They always look modern, which is how I want mine to be. The main image will take up most of the left page, and I will also feature the headline on that side too. This is so the right page doesn't look too full with the text on it too. On the right, I will use three columns to include the text in, I think this makes the double page spread look very professional and is used in most fashion magazines. The font used will be very modern and bold, as the colour will be quite feminine. For the article headline, I want it to be in the purple colour, as I think it will look bold on the page.
Time Management #20
In todays lesson, I am wanting to create a Prezi for my photoshoot planning, and I will look at my magazine flat plans. In my spare time, I am going to write a draft for my magazine article.
Update: In the lesson, I was able to create the flat plans for my magazine, and create a rationale for them. This will help me when coming to design my magazine as I will have a sort of template for me to follow. I am now going to concentrate on creating rationales for a website and billboard. I also managed to write a draft article, I am going to ask one of my peers to read over it and see if they could offer any improvements. Furthermore, I have not managed to complete my photoshoot planning as the website Prezi has not been working on my home computer, therefore I must make an effort to try and do it at college.
Update: In the lesson, I was able to create the flat plans for my magazine, and create a rationale for them. This will help me when coming to design my magazine as I will have a sort of template for me to follow. I am now going to concentrate on creating rationales for a website and billboard. I also managed to write a draft article, I am going to ask one of my peers to read over it and see if they could offer any improvements. Furthermore, I have not managed to complete my photoshoot planning as the website Prezi has not been working on my home computer, therefore I must make an effort to try and do it at college.
Recce
1) Are there any potential hazards that could pose a health and safety risk where your photoshoot will take place (trailing cables/ traffic/ other objects)?
After assessing the area, I couldn't see any hazards that may be a safety risk during my photoshoot. The studio is highly professional with things like trailing cables well hidden, and unable to pose a threat of tripping over. The traffic may be an issue depending on the time of day, as it is sometimes busy when traveling into college.
2) What will you do to ensure these risks are minimised?
Taking into consideration that rush hour traffic will be busy during the times 8am- 9am, and 4pm- 6pm, I will book the photography studio for sometime during the day, this then ensures that the traffic will not be as hectic, therefore won't pose a health and safety risk.
3) Will the time of day/ weather affect the outcome of the photos?
The time of day and weather will not effect my photoshoot, as I am capturing them inside a photography studio. However, I do need to be careful if it is raining, as entering the college from my car might ruin my models make up and hair. To overcome this, I will take and umbrella just incase, and park as close as possible to the college entrance.
4) Have you considered the background to your photos, particularly if taken outside? How will you ensure you will get the background you want?
I have decided to take my images in front of a plain white background, as I can edit them later on in Adobe Photoshop CC 2015, with whatever colour I want.
5) Have you considered lighting? What about the 'problems' of natural lighting, either outside or streaming through a window? Will you need to use a flash? Have you considered reflective objects that might spoil the effect?
I know at the photography studio that there is professional lighting set up for my photographs, therefore I do not need to worry about the 'problems' with natural lighting, either outside or streaming through the windows (there are no windows). Some reflective items such as silver jewellery may reflect the flash, however I do not think this will be a big problem, because if that is the case I can always remove the jewellery during the photoshoot, or edit the errors out later.
6) Do you need permission to take photos in the place/ venue you have in mind?
Yes, I had to let my lecturer know, and also the photography technician.
7) Do you need to book a time in the room?
Yes, I am currently arranging a time.
8) Are other people/ crowds likely to be an issue for you? What have you done to ensure that it will not spoil the effect?
I do not think other people will be a big problem whilst taking my photos, since I will book the studio for my own personal use.
9) Are you reliant on lifts/ props/ friends equipment/ models? How have you planned that these things will come together at the appointed time? Have you got a plan B?
I am not reliant on a lift as I drive and have my own car, as apposed to last year when I was reliant. My model is a close friend of mine, and she said she is available whenever, therefore I just need to find a time to book the studio. She was reliable last year, and I believe she is still reliable for this years images. I do not have any props to take with me, but I will be taking other outfits for my model to change into, but this will be a problem I can overcome as I can easily take them to college in my car. If this photoshoot fails, then my plan B is to try another night in the photography studio, or try taking the images at home.
10) Finally, have you thought of every eventuality...?
Yes I have, I feel as though I am very organised for my photoshoot.
After assessing the area, I couldn't see any hazards that may be a safety risk during my photoshoot. The studio is highly professional with things like trailing cables well hidden, and unable to pose a threat of tripping over. The traffic may be an issue depending on the time of day, as it is sometimes busy when traveling into college.
2) What will you do to ensure these risks are minimised?
Taking into consideration that rush hour traffic will be busy during the times 8am- 9am, and 4pm- 6pm, I will book the photography studio for sometime during the day, this then ensures that the traffic will not be as hectic, therefore won't pose a health and safety risk.
3) Will the time of day/ weather affect the outcome of the photos?
The time of day and weather will not effect my photoshoot, as I am capturing them inside a photography studio. However, I do need to be careful if it is raining, as entering the college from my car might ruin my models make up and hair. To overcome this, I will take and umbrella just incase, and park as close as possible to the college entrance.
4) Have you considered the background to your photos, particularly if taken outside? How will you ensure you will get the background you want?
I have decided to take my images in front of a plain white background, as I can edit them later on in Adobe Photoshop CC 2015, with whatever colour I want.
5) Have you considered lighting? What about the 'problems' of natural lighting, either outside or streaming through a window? Will you need to use a flash? Have you considered reflective objects that might spoil the effect?
I know at the photography studio that there is professional lighting set up for my photographs, therefore I do not need to worry about the 'problems' with natural lighting, either outside or streaming through the windows (there are no windows). Some reflective items such as silver jewellery may reflect the flash, however I do not think this will be a big problem, because if that is the case I can always remove the jewellery during the photoshoot, or edit the errors out later.
6) Do you need permission to take photos in the place/ venue you have in mind?
Yes, I had to let my lecturer know, and also the photography technician.
7) Do you need to book a time in the room?
Yes, I am currently arranging a time.
8) Are other people/ crowds likely to be an issue for you? What have you done to ensure that it will not spoil the effect?
I do not think other people will be a big problem whilst taking my photos, since I will book the studio for my own personal use.
9) Are you reliant on lifts/ props/ friends equipment/ models? How have you planned that these things will come together at the appointed time? Have you got a plan B?
I am not reliant on a lift as I drive and have my own car, as apposed to last year when I was reliant. My model is a close friend of mine, and she said she is available whenever, therefore I just need to find a time to book the studio. She was reliable last year, and I believe she is still reliable for this years images. I do not have any props to take with me, but I will be taking other outfits for my model to change into, but this will be a problem I can overcome as I can easily take them to college in my car. If this photoshoot fails, then my plan B is to try another night in the photography studio, or try taking the images at home.
10) Finally, have you thought of every eventuality...?
Yes I have, I feel as though I am very organised for my photoshoot.
Location Scoutiing
There are several places I am considering for my photoshoot location.
First of all, the easiest place for me to access is Sunderland College's photography studio. I could easily take my images here as it is on campus, and I could get my model ready at home, which is near by, and drive her into college to take the photos. The only problem that may occur is that I would have to find myself a good camera and set up the studio myself. Since I don't study photography, I would not know how to set up the correct lighting and background unless I got a fellow student to help me out.
Another possible place is Sunderland University's photography studio. Whilst on a trip in my first year, I met a photography/ media technician, who offered his studio for my photos, and this is where I took my images for last years coursework, which turned out brilliant. The only downfall was that the campus is rather hard to get too and closes early. Therefore by the time my model finishes college, and I got her ready I don't know if the studio would still be opened.
Another location may be the Quayside, in Newcastle. I think this would be a good location as it is in a prime spot for the North East, and would connect well with the region of my magazine. However, traveling there would be hard, and getting there after college, may be too late and the sun may have gone down. The quayside is also busy, therefore finding a spot for photographs may be a challenge.
I have decided I am going to take my images in my own college's photography studio. It is easy for my model to get too, and I will have time to get my model ready. I will overcome my problems by emailing the studios technician, and asking a friend for help to set the studio up.
 |
| Sunderland College Logo |
 |
| University of Sunderland Logo |
Another possible place is Sunderland University's photography studio. Whilst on a trip in my first year, I met a photography/ media technician, who offered his studio for my photos, and this is where I took my images for last years coursework, which turned out brilliant. The only downfall was that the campus is rather hard to get too and closes early. Therefore by the time my model finishes college, and I got her ready I don't know if the studio would still be opened.
 |
| Newcastle Quayside |
I have decided I am going to take my images in my own college's photography studio. It is easy for my model to get too, and I will have time to get my model ready. I will overcome my problems by emailing the studios technician, and asking a friend for help to set the studio up.
Monday, 30 January 2017
Time Management #19
In this lesson, I am wanting to location scout as I am ready to take photographs of my model. I will also try and create a recce.
Update: I have located where I will take my images, and I have created a recce for the photoshoot.
Update: I have located where I will take my images, and I have created a recce for the photoshoot.
Monday, 23 January 2017
Target Audience Interview Feedback
In my previous post, I interviewed two girls that would be classed as my potential target audience, and asked them what would attract them to a regional magazine and what other features would they be interested in. Throughout the video, I have used a two person shot, as I believe this suits an interview style video, therefore you can also see the interaction between the interviewer and interviewee.
The first question I asked was, "How much would you be willing to pay for a professional regional magazine?"
Both of my interviewees said that they would pay in the region of £3- £4 for a professional regional magazine. I think this is a adequate price for a high quality, monthly, magazine, and remains affordable for my target audience. There is also evidence that this price is suitable from the research with my Facebook group, as I found this price was the most popular. Therefore, this is what I will price my magazine at.
The second question was, "What encourages you to buy a magazine?"
My first interviewee Holly, said that she likes a main sell line and striking images. In relation to my front cover, I will keep in mind to use cover lines that attract my target audience, and an aesthetically pleasing image, that will also attract a secondary audience as well as my primary.
My second interviewee Olivia, commented that she really likes a magazine to have a strong online presence in order for her to follow them on social media and keep up to date. I would like to maintain a strong relationship with my readers, therefore will create social media accounts on popular networks such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, so my readers feel connected to my magazine. I will be communicating daily with them in order to cater towards what they want, whilst keeping the magazine active for the audience between the monthly issues.
Next, I asked "Do you prefer a text or image led double page spread?"
Holly said she prefers an image which is more interesting to view. I need to keep this in mind when designing my double page spread.
My second interviewee, Olivia, said she preferred both. Therefore my target audience may be able to appreciate both text and image. I am going to ensure that both image and text are strong and are given equal spotlight within the spread.
Furthermore, I wanted to know "Would you prefer a question and answer (interview) style double page spread, or a story?"
Holly believes question and answers are handy, but prefers a story as they are more interesting to read. I will take this in mind when writing the article for my double page spread.
Olivia said she prefers a question and answer style article, and since my target audience have different opinions, I will decide when coming to write it what my article style will be like, but at least I know from my first interviewee, that she does not mind a interview style article.
I then asked, "Do you prefer several images or one main image?"
My first interviewee said she prefers many images on a contents page, therefore I will take this into consideration when I come to designing my magazine.
My second interviewee, Olivia, said she prefers one main image, as apposed to many. This juxtaposes with what my first interviewee said, however, I am positive when I design the contents it will be attractive to both.
Moreover, I question "What colours are you attracted too?"
Both interviewees said they liked pinks, which is good as I have already picked my colours scheme, and their preferred colours are in my scheme. However, Olivia said she liked dark colours, which I have not included on my scheme, although I could look at adding them in when I come to designing.
Next, I asked "Would you prefer a hard copy of a magazine or would you prefer to read online?"
Again, both of my interviewees agreed that they prefer reading a hard copy, although reading online is easier if they are in a rush or on their travels. Consequently, I will have to create my online presence as strong as my monthly issues so I don't loose readers.
Lastly, I asked "What sort of contents and articles would you like to see in the magazine?"
Holly said she would love to read about regional fashion and gossip, therefore I will constantly have to relate my content to the North East region.
Olivia said she likes contents including celebrity gossip and fashion, so I will try and include a section which has details on international celebrities, however still taking into consideration my magazine is regional.
Conducting this interview, has really helped widen my potential target audience research, and what they would like to see specifically from my magazine and products.
Audience Profiles
I have created two audience profiles on the website Prezi. I thought this would be the best website to create them on as I have been able to make it look like a Facebook page, with all of their information on.
The first Prezi shows a profile of someone called Holly. She lives in Hetton Le Hole, which is a small village in the North East, she is also 18 years old. I would consider her my primary target audience, therefore I want to concentrate on what her interests are, so I can filter them into my products, and strengthen my research for my potential target audience and their desires.
She is currently a model at Savannas Models, and has worked at Liberty Browns in the past. This is a popular restaurant in Sunderland, which does delicious food and nice cocktails. I could include places like this in my magazine, and website, and try and find good deals for them to use here. For example, 2-4-1 and student nights, I think this will be helpful to those readers that are interested in going out to local restaurants. This information also tells me that my primary audience are likely to have part time jobs, and are still in education. Holly attends Sunderland college, which shows that she probably doesn't have a lot of spare time, therefore my website will come in handy when she's on the move. The profile also gives you her interests such as, traveling, fashion, and shopping. I will use this information to help me decide the contents for my magazine, website and billboard.
The second Prezi, is of my peer Naomi, and she lives in Easington Lane, Houghton- Le- Spring. She is 17, therefore is also my potential target audience. She is currently at college, and has a part time job, which again suggests she does not have a lot of time to read a magazine, therefore my website will be beneficial to her. She has similar interests to Holly, so I will try and build my products around that.
Target Audience Interview
Below is the interview I conducted with two of my primary target audience. I have uploaded the video onto my Youtube channel, so it is easily available to view.
Time Management #18
In this lesson, I want to interview two of my class peers to get some more target audience research. I also want to look at some audience profiles.
Update: I have managed to interview two peers who I would class as my target audience, and I have also analysed their answers. I found that their answers were both similar, and this will help me when coming to design my magazine and what contents I would include. I have also created two audience profiles, to help strengthen my potential target audience.
Update: I have managed to interview two peers who I would class as my target audience, and I have also analysed their answers. I found that their answers were both similar, and this will help me when coming to design my magazine and what contents I would include. I have also created two audience profiles, to help strengthen my potential target audience.
Monday, 16 January 2017
Model Organisation
 |
| Texts with Model |
Interview Script/ Questions
I am going to conduct an interview with a fellow peer, who fits all of the criteria to be someone I would class as my primary target audience. I want to ask 8 questions, that will help me narrow down my magazine design and contents, to really entice the audience I am intending to attract.
Q1) How much would you be will to pay for a regional monthly magazine?
This question will help me to analyse whether my initial idea of around £3 will be a correct price for my magazine and its audience.
Q2) What encourages you to buy a magazine?
This questions helps me to think of what I will include in my magazine and on the front cover, that will draw in more of my primary target audience.
Q3) Do you prefer a text or image led double page spread?
Before starting to design my magazine, I want to know what my target audience prefer when looking at a double page spread, therefore this question really helps towards my final outcome.
Q4) Do you like a question/ answer or story double page spread?
This question will help me write my article for the double page spread, and whether I will do it as a descriptive text, or more like an interview with questions and answers.
Q5) Do you like one main image or many images?
This could be in relation to the front cover, contents and double page spread, therefore my primary target audiences opinion on this, really matters.
Q6) What colours are you attracted too?
Although I already have a colour scheme in my mind, this question will help me confirm that I am along the right lines on a design level.
Q7) Do you like a hard copy or prefer reading online?
I think this is a really important question for my primary target audience to answer, as I am determining whether my magazine or website will be more popular.
Q8) What sort of contents/ articles would you like to see?
Again, this is a really important question, as I am aiming my magazine towards the peers I am interviewing, therefore I need to take on board things they would be interested in reading.
Q1) How much would you be will to pay for a regional monthly magazine?
This question will help me to analyse whether my initial idea of around £3 will be a correct price for my magazine and its audience.
Q2) What encourages you to buy a magazine?
This questions helps me to think of what I will include in my magazine and on the front cover, that will draw in more of my primary target audience.
Q3) Do you prefer a text or image led double page spread?
Before starting to design my magazine, I want to know what my target audience prefer when looking at a double page spread, therefore this question really helps towards my final outcome.
Q4) Do you like a question/ answer or story double page spread?
This question will help me write my article for the double page spread, and whether I will do it as a descriptive text, or more like an interview with questions and answers.
Q5) Do you like one main image or many images?
This could be in relation to the front cover, contents and double page spread, therefore my primary target audiences opinion on this, really matters.
Q6) What colours are you attracted too?
Although I already have a colour scheme in my mind, this question will help me confirm that I am along the right lines on a design level.
Q7) Do you like a hard copy or prefer reading online?
I think this is a really important question for my primary target audience to answer, as I am determining whether my magazine or website will be more popular.
Q8) What sort of contents/ articles would you like to see?
Again, this is a really important question, as I am aiming my magazine towards the peers I am interviewing, therefore I need to take on board things they would be interested in reading.
Reader Profile
 |
| Primary Reader Profile |
For my primary target audience, the age group that would read my magazine, would be aged between 16- 21. I have chosen this age range because I feel as though I can create products that will attract them the most, and that they will enjoy. My secondary audience would be aged anything above 21, that is still interested in a regional fashion and lifestyle magazine.
My primary target audience would be female. I feel like I can relate to the topics I choose and create my products the best for a female, as I myself am female. This will enable me to have an insight on what colours women are attracted too, and what contents would attract the typical female. My secondary target audience would be males. Just because I am my primary target audience is females, therefore the contents will be aimed towards girls, does not mean a male will not enjoy reading it, it all depends on his interests. I think my online presence will be more popular with males, rather than actually going out and buying my magazine, as it easily available to them.
My primary audience race will be stereotypically English, this is because my products will be in the language english. My secondary audience may be other races that live in this country or other countries, that can speak and read english. My website may be popular to my secondary audience.
My primary target audience will still be in education, this may be school, sixth form, college or university. I wanted my target audience to be of this age where they are still in college etc, so I can relate to them more and understand their interests. My secondary audience could be those that have left school and have an apprenticeship or job, who are still in my chosen age range.
Furthermore, my primary audience will have part time work, therefore will have a small disposable income, that can be used to purchase my magazine. My secondary audience may have a full time job, therefore will more disposable income.
Finding out my primary and secondary target audience's annual income is impossible, as there are many different types of people from all different background in my region, who would still be classed as my primary audience.
My primary audiences current lifestyle and media interests will involve going out with friends, shopping, and using apps such as Snapchat. It is important they stay up to date, as my magazine will be very social media friendly.
My primary audience will be C2- E on the Audience Code, as they will be students or part time workers. My secondary audience could be anyone above that, who is still interested in a regional fashion and lifestyle magazine.
Time Management #17
In this lesson, I am going to make a reader profile, I want this to help me understand my target audience. I also want to location scout, and find someone to model for my images.
Update: I feel as though in this lesson I have got a lot done, I have managed to make reader profiles for my primary and secondary audience, which provides information on their ages, audience code and buying habits. This enables me to tailor my products exactly for a specific target audience. I have also arranged a date and time for my photographs to be taken, and that is with my peer Casey Watson. I have also managed to location scout, and found the best place to take my images is in the photography studio at Bede College.
Update: I feel as though in this lesson I have got a lot done, I have managed to make reader profiles for my primary and secondary audience, which provides information on their ages, audience code and buying habits. This enables me to tailor my products exactly for a specific target audience. I have also arranged a date and time for my photographs to be taken, and that is with my peer Casey Watson. I have also managed to location scout, and found the best place to take my images is in the photography studio at Bede College.
Friday, 13 January 2017
Audience Profiling
A target audience is a group of people that are most relevant and connected to a media product that is trying to be sold, hence the name target audience. Audience profiling allows me to find my specific target audience, which I can then cater my magazine, website and billboard for.
Before designing my target audience profile, their are some factors I must consider:
Age and Sex- Although obvious, this is a very important part of defining the audience profile, as I need to decide the gender and age group before designing my products. I want to create an older teenage girls magazine, as I feel like I will have the best knowledge about things they like, as I, myself, am a teenage girl.
Before designing my target audience profile, their are some factors I must consider:
- Age
- Gender
- Religion
- Race
- Sexuality
- Education
- Occupation
- Annual Income
- Disposable income
- Current and Desired Lifestyle
- Media Interests
- Buying Habits
I can find out this information in many different methods.
Qualitative Research- This involves me asking questions to the public, whether it be via a group chat (such as my A2 Facebook group), questionnaires or face to face interviews. I could ask questions like "What is your gender?", "Do you enjoy reading magazines?" etc. This method allows me to be very detailed in what I am wanting to find out, and is much safer for defining the target audience as it gives me fresh information from my regional peers rather than figures and answers from the internet that could easily be outdated.
Socio- Economic Research- This method includes finding out the right economic class for my targeted audience, and who my product would appeal too. There are traditionally three classes; upper, middle and working class. Upper is seen to be the wealthiest people and working the poorest. I do not think this is a good method to use for defining my target audience, as I want my magazine to be available to all socio- economic classes. I will price my magazine at £2.99 for a months issue, which I think may be affordable for most students, if they prioritise their money correctly. I also do not want to design a magazine that targets a certain class, as I want to welcome all classes to read it.
 |
| Demographic Table |
Demographic Research- The purpose of a demographic chart is to define the adult population largely by the work that the do. This is a very common and traditional method when audience profiling, as it helps narrow down the search for the best target audience. The chart breaks down the entire population of adults into six groups. The chart labels each group depending on their status and income. I prefer this method a lot more than the socio- economic class groups, as it can range over one or more groups, whereas the classes are restricted to one. This gives me more variety in finding my target audience.
 |
| Psychographic Table |
Psychographics- This is similar to demographics, but it deals more with peoples behaviour and personality rather than the work they do. For example, a loud party animal would be separated into a different group than a shy introvert person. However this method is not meant to be discriminatory. For my own products, I am looking at the audiences who are Mainstreamers, Succeeders, Aspirers and Explorers. This is also a good method for audience profiling as it allows me to choose my readers from more than one group.
Age and Sex- Although obvious, this is a very important part of defining the audience profile, as I need to decide the gender and age group before designing my products. I want to create an older teenage girls magazine, as I feel like I will have the best knowledge about things they like, as I, myself, am a teenage girl.
Time Management #16
In this lesson, I want to have a look at audience profiling.
Update: I have created a Prezi, which illustrates the findings of my A2 Facebook group. I have also researched into demographics, and psychographics, which will help me at home when I come to designing the reader profile.
Update: I have created a Prezi, which illustrates the findings of my A2 Facebook group. I have also researched into demographics, and psychographics, which will help me at home when I come to designing the reader profile.
Thursday, 12 January 2017
Target Audience Survey Results
In this Prezi, I have analysed the findings from my A2 Facebook group. I discovered that most were females, aged between 16-19, therefore I found out a lot about the price they would be willing to pay and what interests them the most on a front cover.
Target Audience Mood Board
 |
| Potential Target Audience Mood Board |
I found that most liked to go shopping either in the centre of Newcastle or the Metro Centre. Other places that we have available in our area to shop at is Sunderland, The Galleries, and Hartlepool. Obviously there are places further afield such as York Designer Outlet and Leeds, however these places do not class in my North East region, therefore won't be included in my products. I have also included shops such as Topshop, Flannels, and River Island, that are all available shops in our region. Places such as Missguided, PRETTYLITTLETHING.com, and Victoria's Secret are not available in the North East, however can be ordered online, and pose interest to my potential target audience, therefore I may use them showing different fashion items etc. I want to make sure I am using products that my target audience like and can get their hands on.
Additionally, I used makeup brands and restaurants that were suggested by my peers, as I hope to include them in my products when I come to designing them.
Potential Target Audience Questions
 |
| Conversation with Peers |
Time Management #15
In this session I want to create a mood board of things my target audience enjoy in the area.
Update: I have created a small messenger group on Facebook with some classmates, I wanted to know what they enjoyed doing in the North East and where they liked to go. I found that most preferred to go out for food, and I then created a mood board with my findings. I also added brands and products that I think my potential target audience would be interested in. In my own time, I want to find out more about my target audience, and what they will be willing to pay for a magazine etc, therefore I will ask some questions in my Facebook group.
Update: I have created a small messenger group on Facebook with some classmates, I wanted to know what they enjoyed doing in the North East and where they liked to go. I found that most preferred to go out for food, and I then created a mood board with my findings. I also added brands and products that I think my potential target audience would be interested in. In my own time, I want to find out more about my target audience, and what they will be willing to pay for a magazine etc, therefore I will ask some questions in my Facebook group.
Character Drawings
I have made a collage of character drawings that I have found on Pinterest. These are pictures of my potential target audience and what they would look like. I have chosen females as I definitely know they are who I want to make my products for. This is because I am female myself, therefore feel as though I know how to create a fashion/ lifestyle magazine that will attract our gender. I have also gone for teenagers as, again, this is who I will be aiming my magazine towards. Furthermore, I have gone for girls that are quite casual and look fashionable, as I presume they will be interested in a regional magazine with information on current trends/ new trendy places to visit/ up and coming concerts etc.
 |
| Character Drawings |
Monday, 9 January 2017
Time Management #14
In this session I plan on looking at character drawings, and who I would class as my primary and secondary audience.
Update: I have made a collage on Microsoft PowerPoint with character drawings that I think would look alike my target audience. I think they will be girly, but dress casual, and be interested in fashion and makeup.
Update: I have made a collage on Microsoft PowerPoint with character drawings that I think would look alike my target audience. I think they will be girly, but dress casual, and be interested in fashion and makeup.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)