My Media Products

Evaluation Question 7

AS Media Evaluation Question 7 by Joe-William Gallagher

Evaluation Question 6

Evaluation Question 5

Q: What Did You Do To Attract/Address Your Audience?

Evaluation Question 4

Evaluation Question 3

Evaluation Question 2

Evaluation Question 1

Final Products

Inspiration & Influence

Main Artist Influence:

These are a collection of images and a music video that heavily influenced the creation of my main artist. Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson are both big names in the pop industry. They have a unique and stylised approach to their work which in turn gives them both a professional aura. This is something I tried to recreate in regards to my own main artist, the "King". It is clear that both Bruno and Mark dress in a professional manner, something that I used with my own main artist. The sleek visual aspects from Mark Ronson (i.e The Blazer) combined with the chilled-back vibe from Bruno Mars (Sunglasses) all heavily influenced the Mise-en-Scene of my main artist. The collaboration of both Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson in the 2014 single "Uptown Funk" helped solidify their similar visual aspects in regards to the way they dress. This was a huge influence to incorporate aspects of both Bruno and Mark in my own main artist.

"Royalty Edition" Inspiration

These images consist of Prince, Queen, Sir Tom Jones and Lady Gaga respectively. These are the artists who heavily influenced the "Royalty" aspect of my magazine. All these artists' names have a connection to the titles of Royalty. This, I felt, was a good opportunity to create a specialist issue of my magazine. "The Royalty Edition" was an obvious title. This issue name was also applicable due to the name of my artist being "King". All of these artists (excluding Lady Gaga) are artists from the 70's and 80's which, I feel, is good as it allows for a comparison to be made with my artist who is new and upcoming.

Final Double Page Spread Creation Process

The first stage of development was importing my edited image into Fireworks so I could begin constructing my final DPS

In the second stage of development I added a Headline relating to my artist. I chose the headline "The Rise of A King" due to my article being about the rise of a pop star. My artists name is also "King" which is clearly shown in the headline.

In my third stage of development I added my article and separated it into separate columns. This is a typical convention of DPS. The article itself also includes aspects of page furniture such as Drop Caps which, again, is another common convention found in Double Page Spreads.

In my fourth stage of development I added a pull quote in the middle of my article. The pull quote used is taken directly from the article itself - something that is common in double page spreads. I chose to use a Serif font for the abstract noun "Success" due to its connotations of wealth and fulfilment.

In my fifth stage of development I added a crown watermark which I situated behind the main article. I used a crown as it clearly relates to my artist being the "King". It also adds an original flair to my work.

In my sixth stage of development I decided to use a different main image. This was due to the previous image looking to static and dull which in turn limited the experimental process of my work.

In my seventh stage of development I decided to change my approach to the article due to the previous layout clashing with the colours present on my main image. I added a small sub title reading "Who is this 21st century pop sensation" underneath the main headline. This was in response to some peer feedback I received saying there was a lack of detail in regards to the title.

In the eighth stage of development I started to reconstruct my main article with the previous feedback in mind. The intro of my article was placed on the left hand side of the page with a distinct white drop cap used at the start. This is a common convention of Double Page Spreads, which is why I found it beneficial to include one of my own. 

In my ninth stage of development I added two more sections of my article as well as a pull quote separating the two sections. This is a fairly common convention in Double Page Spreads, which is why I found it beneficial to include it in my own product.

My tenth stage of development saw me add a "Fan Q&A" box out on the right hand side of the page. I feel that adding this feature was a good way of filling up the empty space on my double page spread. This is also a unique feature, thus making my magazine more original.

My eleventh stage of development was changing the position of my pull quote. I chose to move it from underneath the two paragraphs to the top left hand side of the page in order to fill in the empty space. I also did this as I was considering changing my paragraphs into columns in order to follow the typical conventions.

My twelfth stage of development saw me get rid of my "Fan Q&A" as it needed further development. This was due to it being too large.

My thirteenth stage of development saw me put my remaining part of my article into columns. This is a typical convention followed in all magazines so it was crucial for me to follow it.

In my fourteenth stage of development I added my "Fan Q&A" boxout back onto my double page spread. With the previous problems in mind, I ensured that the size of the box out was much smaller which, in turn, gave me more space to experiment with the positioning of my article.

In my fifteenth stage of development I used the ruler tool to ensure my article was the correct size and that the different components were level with each other. By doing this, the professional aspects of my work were heightened due to the visual aspects of my work being sharpened.

In my sixteenth stage of development I increased the sub heading below the main headline. This was in response to some verbal feedback saying that there was too much empty space in between the main headline and the article. By doing this, I decreased the amount of empty space on my double page spread.

In my seventeenth stage of development I made my main artist mask the headline. I used the polygon lasso tool to ensure that the top of his head would mask the main headline. This was to increase the importance of my main artist.

In my eighteenth stage of development I added a picture of a crown and put it behind my article. This functioned as a watermark which, in turn, really helps consolidate my main artist and how he is the main focus for this magazine. I also edited the image of the crown to ensure that none of it was lost in the fold of my double page spread. I used the ruler tool to find the middle of the page so I knew how the fold would effect my magazine.

In my nineteenth stage of development, I made some slight adjustments to my pull quote as well as adding minor details such as the page numbers and a brief statement of who took the image. These are all incredibly common conventions found on double page spreads, so was beneficial for me to follow them.

In my twentieth and final stage of development, I increased the size of the stand first in order to fill in the empty space between the headline and the article. I also added a drop shadow behind my pull quote in order to make it more aesthetically appealing. These changes were made in response to some feedback I received.

Double Page Spread Mocks/Variations

Double Page Spread Article

The music industry has had many surprises over the years, but none compare to the rise of "The King".  Whether we know his real name or not, his rise through the charts has been extraordinary. His new hit album "Reign" has already accumulated 10 million downloads on release weekend. "I'm speechless, I never thought I'd enter the charts let alone hold the number 1 spot" We asked The King about his inspiration and his music idols that prompted his entry into the pop industry. "Bruno Mars, definitely. I really admire his style and charisma both on and off stage. The way he can engage with his audience is amazing, it really is. I'd like to think I'm picking up some of his traits!"

 We also questioned The King on his controversial lyric choices and the meanings behind them. "I wouldn't say they have a secret meaning, they just reflect my opinion. If you don’t write about what you know then you're wasting your time. If people don’t like my music, then they don't have to listen. I understand that my opinions may not be politically correct but this is how I get my views across" The music industry isn't the only field The King is looking to get into, as a recent confirmation confirms his plan to take on Hollywood. "Yeah, it's mad. I've always loved going to the movies so to be a part of one is mind blowing. I love trying new things and entering new industries. I'm taking every opportunity I can to succeed, I really can't wait"

When considering the crowded market of the pop industry you have to wonder what makes an artist successful. If anything, The King has shown that originality is the key to success in the industry. "Yeah, I do think that being original is important. If all pop artists created the same type of music, then the industry would just become stale" The Kings music is unlike anything the industry has witnessed before with its unique blend of jazz and alternative pop. We asked The King about how his life has changed this past year. From rags to riches, The King has experienced both sides of living. "I can't be more grateful. When I think about what I was and where I was to where I am now it feels like a dream. I remember when I couldn't even afford to keep the heat on. It feels weird to not worry about bills. I'm trying to be careful with what I spend my money on. I've actually tried to help other artists burst onto the pop scene. If I can help smaller artists by investing in them then it can't do any harm. I'd like everyone to have the same chances I've had in this field". When it comes to helping others in the industry, The King is the one to take inspiration from.

 He's already donated £100,000 in studio time for upcoming artists as well as an audience with five different record labels. The King understands the importance of helping the next generation of artists and the vital role mentors play in today's world. If anything, he has shown the rest of us that giving is a much more rewarding experience. We could all learn a thing or two from the Kings generosity. We can't wait to see the Kings students become stars in the industry to show the rest of the us how hard work and dedication can pay off in the end. We asked The King about his new clothing line coming out this summer. The new line called "Monarchy" will be an obvious hit with the fans. "I hope that people like it. I've worked with this company for a while now and worked hard to perfect this line of clothing. There's gonna be hats, sunglasses, jeans and obviously blazers. I really hope it goes down well". This new line of clothing proves that the King is not only an artists, but is slowly becoming a brand. Not many artists have been able to create a brand in such a small amount of time. If anything, it proves that history is in the making with this 21st century pop sensation. 

The King is definitely one to watch at the moment. With both new music and movie roles in the pipeline who knows where he'll end up. Whats for certain though, is that the king is here to stay. With his fanbase growing at an alarming rate, The king has managed to recruit an army. The biggest the industry has ever seen. But what will he do with this almighty force? Attempt a siege on a record company? Take over Wembley Arena? We'll just have to wait and see. Before he left Frequency HQ, The King gave us a brief insight into what he's currently working on. "I don't want to give anything away, but I'm trying something completely different. New sound, new lyrics - the lot. Don't expect any news soon though, it's still in early development". With that glimpse into the future of The King, it's something to get excited about. His hit new album "Reign" is now available for download from iTunes as well as all high street stores.

Page Furniture

This is a collection of the typical page furniture that is commonly found in double page spreads. Through researching the various furniture found on double page spreads, I am able to explore the conventions found in DPS, and am thus able to have a greater insight into what to include in my own DPS.

Double Page Spread Visual Syntax

These are six visual designs for my Double Page Spread. On each design I've tried to experiment with the various conventions typically found on a double page spread. Conventions, along with page furniture, are the aspects I've tried to make different on each design. Through experimenting with page furniture and typical conventions, I feel that I've enhanced my knowledge on what makes an effective Double Page Spread.

Final Contents Page Creation Process

My first stage of development consisted of importing my edited image into Fireworks so I could begin to construct my contents page.

In my second stage of development, I added a large, Sans Serif "CONTENTS" title and positioned it at the top of the page - a convention commonly found in music magazines.

In my third stage of development I added the "MAIN FEATURES" Sub-heading and positioned it just to the left of the models face.

My fourth stage of development saw me insert the various page numbers and position them directly underneath the "Main Features" Sub-Heading.

In my fifth stage of development I added the titles and description to the corresponding page number. I used the same font for all titles, and the same font for the descriptions.

In my sixth stage of development I added another page number "84" and enlarged it to show that this is the page number consisting of the artist present in the main image. I also added an "Exclusive" bar that shows the importance of the article. Both of these features were placed in front of the artists thus consolidating the relevance they have with one another. I also added the date and issue number underneath the Contents title - another common convention.

In my seventh stage of development I added my pug that was featured in my front cover. I placed the pug over the "O" in "Contents" which, I feel, helps link my front cover and contents page together. I also added the description for my main article as well as a small title reading "King".

In my eighth stage of development I chose to break down the "CONTENTS" title into three different sections and place them to the right hand side of my page. I did this to add a unique flair to my work as I felt that the original "Contents" title was too plain and boring. I chose to keep my pug that was over the "O" in the title due to its originality and ability to link my front cover and contents page together.

In my ninth stage of development I chose to move my "Main Features" sub heading and page numbers and descriptions further up the page. This in turn meant that I had more room below to experiment with. I also added a small frequency line running through the "Main Features" sub heading. This, I feel, shows my brand ideology throughout my media products.

In my tenth stage of development I added a "Reviews" sub heading. Alongside this, I've included a black square with a red frequency line. This, again, helps reinforce my brand ideology and identity throughout my contents page. Below this I've included text reading "Classics Reviewed" as well as three iconic album covers.

In my eleventh stage of development I changed the style of the "Exclusive" heading. I decided to keep the heading level as well as changing the font and its size. By doing this, I feel I've given the main article more of a presence. I also changed the font of the "King" heading to again, draw more attention to it by using a bolder sans serif font.

In my twelfth stage of development I chose to get rid of the three album covers below my "reviews" section. I chose to remove these as I thought they were too distracting due to the extensive variety of colours they had. I instead chose to replace these pictures with a page number and description of the album they replaced. This, I feel, helps to create a sense of fluency throughout my contents page.

In my thirteenth stage of development, I added the website and postal address of my brand at the top left of the page. This is a common convention found on most contents pages which, in turn, makes it beneficial for me to include it in my own work.

In my fourteenth and final stage of development, I added a poster feature just above "The Exclusive" heading. This was to ensure that my work included four of my own images. I also added a frequency line inside the black box of "The Exclusive" feature.This was to reinforce and consolidate my brand and its ideology. I also removed the black box next to the "Reviews" heading due to some feedback stating that it looked too unnecessary.