Format Research Evaluation

What I learnt from creating a format research is how to convey the aesthetic of ‘Rock’ successfully.

The house-style in ‘Rock’ magazines expresses a pattern of direct and ‘in-your-face’; fonts, colours and headlines. For example, in NME the vigorous colouring and large titles is a paramount feature in all Rock genre magazines, this is important because the impression of a ‘Rock’ music image is loud and expressive, as a result, the aesthetic would not be harmonious it will connote a big and bold statements. Specifically in the ‘NME’ contextual study it indicates ‘Rock’ in an audacious statement. The magazines colour scheme of ‘blue, red and white’ is a very ironic way of how ‘Rock’ is usually exhibited. Correspondingly, ‘NME’ magazine portrays how there are many aspects of ‘Rock’ that may appear controversial to the stereotypical one, however does not defy the objective of Rock, they still have a strong presentation of the genre. Unlike the contentious analytical view of Rock, the magazines where I had gained more precise knowledge according to the conventions of a rock magazine, is the more classic versions. For example, ‘Classic Rock’ and ‘Rock Sound’. Both these magazine make obvious links within their editions, firstly they typically put their main image on the centre of their front covers.

This bull’s eye-composition produces a focal point, which means the element in the shot that the viewer’s eye is naturally drawn to, and also adds a sense of scale to your pictures. In addition to this, the clarity of the photo suggestively indicates that the magazine is centralized on that enhanced figurative focus. Furthermore, ‘Classic Rock’ also included the band’s name “GUNS N’ ROSES’. This furthers aids the audience in what the focus of the magazine is.  As well as this, rock is signified through its association with colour and it is evident that these foundations are black, white and grey. In contrast a pop of colour is still an effective element as it displays the energetic expression that Rock has. However I must ensure the colours are not random and relate well so the theme is recognizable.

Overall, the media conventions used are very specific to their target audience. I will ensure to use these as much as possible to allow my audience to recognize this magazine visually as a ‘Rock’ magazine. If I am to follow the knowledge from these techniques it will allow me to produce a well-executed final piece.