Front cover
1) What do the typefaces used on the front cover suggest to an audience?
The typefaces used on the front cover suggest that this magazine is different to others as it doesn't use conventional/typical font that a magazine cover would use. The typefaces used also suggests that the magazine is aimed at a niche audience.
2) The words under the title introduce the content and topics addressed. What do these suggest about the potential audience of Oh Comely?
The topics addressed under the title suggests that the magazine is aimed at a more female based audience. Interestingly they have used the category 'mischief' which suggests that their audience are those who may break rules from time to time and/or go against societal conventions .
3) How do the cover lines use narrative to create enigma? What do the cover lines suggest about the magazine's content and audience?
The cover lines use enigma by not telling the audience what will be mentioned specifically in the magazine and instead gives a brief overview of the magazine and what is to expect - this goes against the key convention if loads of cover lines to do with magazine content which is usually used on covers. The cover lines suggest that the magazines content is based around empowerment and success.
4) Write an analysis of the central image.
The central image used on the cover of Oh Comely is not one which would typically be used on a magazine cover because it is quite niche and subverts the traditional conventions of women being used for a magazine cover. In the image the model is wearing little to no make up with her hair tied back which draws attention to her serious expression, almost an expression of power/ standing up tall. The model is also covered which subverts the traditional woman on a magazine who would be made to look in a sexualised manner (male gaze). Her whole attire is different to the typical clothing that a model would wear for a magazine which suggests the uniqueness and niche aspect of the magazine.
5) What representation of gender can be found on this front cover?
It can be argued that the magazine represents the idea that gender is a performance and can therefore be changed, we can see this through the fact that the model is not typically dressed or looks like what the typical magazine model does. The style and costuming of the model suggests that the magazine is attempting to deconstruct the idea of male and female by portraying a model who appears androgynous.
Feature: Speaking Out
1) What does the headline and standfirst suggest about Oh Comely's feminist perspective?
The cover lines on the image suggest a sense of empowerment and growth but does not refer specifically to women, however the fact that this magazine is mainly aimed at females from a more feminist perspective of recognition and empowerment may mean the audience interprets the cover lines from a more feminist perspective. The standfirst summarises the main principles and values of the magazine; the idea of empowering women and encouraging them to achieve great things/change the world around them
2) What do the interviewees in this feature suggest about the values and ideologies that underpin this magazine?
The interviewees feature women who would not necessarily be interviewed or celebrated in mainstream magazines. It features BAME groups and represents them in a positive way - fits with the positive values that the magazine attempts to reinforce (feminism and female empowerment).
3) How conventional is the page design in this feature? Why?
The page design in this feature is not conventional as all of the text is centred and restricted by the white border which means there is a lot of space which is not filled up. The page design is very minimalist which goes with the vibe of the magazine.
4) Pick out specific aspects of this feature that subvert the stereotypical representation of women in the media. Are they different to what we may find in conventional women's lifestyle magazines such as Glamour or Cosmopolitan? Why is the absence of men a key feature of Oh Comely?
The women used are all empowered and recognised for their success in different aspects of life and work. The women are all shown in a more natural way instead of posing and having a certain appearance which would usually be how women are presented on magazine covers. The absence of men is a key feature of Oh Comely because it brings the main focus on empowering women for things they are not usually recognised for in the media.
5) How does the photography offer a fresh or unusual perspective on women?
The photography and images used in the magazine offer a fresh and unusual perspective on women because it shows them in a more natural form showing different body types, skin colours etc. It subverts the theory of the male gaze which is the objectification of women in the media for the purpose to be looked at.
Feature: More than gender
1) How does this feature offer a fresh perspective on gender and identity?
The cover image portrays the model in an androgynous manner - the image used is attempting to deconstruct the idea of male and female. The magazine reflects modern ideas of gender fluidity and constructing your own gender and version of female/male. It also touches on the idea of the sense of belonging and creating an identity for yourself.
2) What is the significance of the writer and photographer? How does this fit with the Oh Comely brand?
The writer and photographers have as it appears worked together to create an interesting contextual narrative for the audience, this can especially be seen in the story focusing on the transgender siblings.
3) What style of photography is used in this feature?
Photo booth style pictures of Andrea and Ash - adds a nostalgic feel to the article and also makes the audience feel as though they are being spoken to on a more personal level, given an insight into a personal aspect of their lives
4) What representations of the trans lifestyle can be found in this feature?
The hardships and long process of the transgender lifestyle can be found in this feature as it gives a real life first hand experience. It also highlights the positive points of the trans journey and how personal the experience really is. It also shows how the trans journey can be just as hard for the individual as it is for the people around them.
5) Why is the biographical information at the end of the article significant? (Clue: the writer is also an editor of a niche, creative magazine called Entitle).
It adds to the minimalist feel of the magazine and the idea that it is aimed at a reasonably niche audience
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