Magazine covers that inspire me

This front cover is for Kerrang magazine and is featuring Amy Lee from the well known band Evanescence. I like the format of this magazine. It is quite busy around the edges and in contrast the main image is quite simple yet still eye catching. I think that as the mode of address of the image is direct, the reader is drawn straight to the image. I think this is a good technique and I would consider using this in my own magazine. I also like how the main sell line uses enigma. It can be widely interpreted by the reader and I think this will add a sense of mystery to the magazine and also attract readers to buy it. I also like how the colour scheme stands out from the background. It makes the magazine bold and eye catching and also gender neutral colours predominantly such as yellow and white.

What I like about this magazine is the pose of the main image. It is intriguing and unusual which I think will grab the reader's attention. I also like the background colour used as I think it is light and inviting yet also seems to appeal to a younger rock audience. However, I dislike the use of yellow text on a blue background. I think it is hard to read as the light blue and bright yellow blend together and the text is hard to distinguish. I would change the yellow to a darker colour as the contrast between the light blue and dark text will help it stand out. I do like the yellow when used against the image as it stands out and think this would be more appropriate.

I really like the pose of this main image. The mode of address is direct and engages the audience from the start, also, the pose with the hand pointing towards the camera adds a 3D feel which I think is very intriguing. This magazine is not as busy as the others and does not advertise everything that is in the magazine. However, as the main image is quite large and of a well known band throughout most genres, I think this feature will be their main sell point and they have emphasised this well. I like how the magazine has a ripped type look to it as I feel that it adds something extra to the overall style. I would consider using this technique or something similar when designing my own magazine.