Research for preliminary project

As part of our preliminary project, we have been asked to analyse the front cover of a college magazine, this is the one we have chosen. 

One thing that makes it suitable for a college student audience is the fact the masthead says college in big clear letters. Another thing that makes it a good magazine for a student audience is the sans serif font, which creates quite a relaxed informal appearance. The sparing use of primary colours allows the cover to be eye-catching but without looking gaudy and overly busy. The background is blurry, which draws more attention to the main focus/article of the magazine. The cover model is the same age as the target audience, which attracts said audience.

It shares many features with College magazine, such as the sans serif font, the sparse use of primary colours and a cover model the same age as the target audience. However, College's articles alternate sides whereas Aspire's are mostly left justified, which makes it look less professional.

This cover looks more academic, as the student on the cover is actually doing something, unlike the other models who are either standing or lying down doing nothing. It also uses more white, which makes it look sophisticated and academic.


From these examples, we can extrapolate such ideas as using primary colours sparingly for an eye-catching effect, using a model the same age as our target audience, use of the colour white adds to an academic and sophisticated feel.