Wednesday 7 November 2012

Double page spread analysis - Mixmag


  • The layout of this double page spread focuses on a collage of images. The whole of the first page and a large proportion of the second is taken up by photos, suggesting the article is more of a visual guide than a complicated read. The section that does contain text has one column, keeping the appearance clean and simple. In terms of the ratio of text to images, there is definitely a higher proportion of images, in fact, it seems less than a quarter is writing. When you first look at the double page spread as a whole, I think your eye is drawn to the largest image as it stretches over both pages, and the feature title as it is in a contrasting font to the background and in an unique typeface/design. There are no subheadings visible on this article but it is extremely short and so breaking up the text is not really necessary. The font used over this double page spread is used throughout the whole magazine, ensuring there is a consistent style. It is not a traditional font, but still basic, clear to read and definitely reflects the trendy style of Mixmag magazine. The colour scheme of this article is based around white with aspects of a peachy/pink. This makes the magazine appear fresh, clean and modern. Although the colours compliment the cover they don't follow the colour scheme exactly, but this adds variety and keeps the appearance interesting. 
  • The mode of address of this article is very journalistic and informal, making sure the target audience is engaged. It is very to the point and uncomplicated in what it's trying to say. Language used is mature but there also lots of slang and colloquialisms present, making the article appear more fun and less serious. The content of the article is a mini review on Creamfields music festival and a general gossip as to why it got cancelled on the last day. Therefore it comes across like the focus of the article is to reflect and celebrate the festival as well as inform readers of what happened on the Sunday, including information they may not already know. This has a positive effect on the reader as they consequently feel up to date and knowledgeable with inside information. The content itself does not come across as biased because the writer has presented a balanced view. 
  • There are many images featured on this double page spread article. One main photo goes across both pages, covering the centre of the double page spread. This large image is then surrounded by 7 smaller images around the edge. This creates a collage effect that is appealing to the eye and an a good visual aid to the article. All of the images are positioned straight with an equal white border and none are rotated or overlap each other, following Mixmag’s clean and professional style. The photos are snapshots from the festival, capturing people looking happy and joyful, and giving the article a casual and fun appearance. Due to the fact that the photos featured with this article take up 3/4 of the double spread, I think the reader’s main focus would be on the images and the text accompanies them, unlike most of the articles I have looked at when it’s been the other way around.

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