Thursday 26 April 2012

Preliminary Task Essay
When starting this task the first aspect I had to decide on was my target audience, which I then decided to be year 7 girls. I chose this audience because I thought the magazine would appeal most to them, especially as they have recently started a new school, therefore will want to know all about their new school and the goings on such as, after school clubs/activites etc. I had to create an image which would link to my target audience, therefore I knew it had to be of a girl, and around in the school somewhere. I chose it to be an older female student as year 7 girls most probably look up to older students, and can possibly ask questions about the older years and the differences. I chose the colour scheme of blue and pink on the front cover, as the blue links to the background of the image. Also the different shades of blue stand out from the bright pink title, and allow the colours to contrast, therefore making the front page vibrant and stand out. I wanted the title to be a different colour as this would be the main aspect that jumps out to the reader, aswell as the colour pink being stereotypically popular with year 7 girls. I maintained the same colour scheme in the contents page as it would therefore link to the front cover and sustain continuity. I think the heading on the contents page works well considering the contrast of the navy blue background. I also used a fun and bold font to ensure the magazine wouldn't come across as boring and serious because that would put off the audience. The information about each page gives the audience an idea of what this magazine contains, therefore they become interested and want to read more. By employing an image of 'Thorpe Park', it attracts the reader and makes them want to find out what they have to do for a trip to Thorpe Park. Also 'Thorpe Park' is for everyone, especially this type of audience considering they are still quite young and lovw a fun day out!
Overall I think both of my pages work well as the colour choices play off each other and stand out, but if i could rethink certain aspects I would try my best to capture a slightly more enticing image, possibly making it more exciting, therefore enabling the audience to look forward to the older years of school life. Also, I would brainstorm more ideas for what the magazine will consist of in the beginning, therefore would not have to waste time trying to think of exciting elements and fun sell lines whilst in the making process of the magazine.