Regional MagazinesCodes and Conventions – Surrey Life

January 2014 Edition

This edition of Surrey Life, from January 2014 published by Archant makes use of many codes and conventions I have identified in the other magazines published by Archant. The logo, prominent in the top center of the front cover, is white in a traditional font. The use of the word “Surrey” makes it clear to the reader the topic of the magazine/the region it is aimed at. A distinct background from the region catches the readers eye.

Various sell lines around the page alternate between serif and traditional fonts creating a house style to the magazine. The use of white and yellow writing makes the text stand out from the background whilst being easy to read, and ties the magazine together forming an image and ethos of this edition. The main cover line “Get set for 2014” written in a yellow colour. The main cover line would suggest to the reader the main topic for the magazine, and due to the issue date this would be one for people who are looking towards 2014.

At the bottom of the page, a white background allows the further sell lines to stand out on the page, with additional images. This gives more information about the magazine and the topics within. The bottom of the page contains features that are not directly related to the main cover line or the image used as the background. They have used different colour text for the sell lines at the bottom of the page. These are making use of traditional font, in red. This creates a separate colour scheme related to the woman's hat in the small image. This still however, ties in with the rest of the page.

Summary of Codes and Conventions:• Large centered title• Clear brand image• Ties in with publisher

brand image• Contrasting text colours

reflect background to create colour scheme

• Bottom panel shows separate topics with a different style to rest of front cover

This edition of Surrey Life makes use of a double page contents. This displays the information in topic areas, making it possible for the reader to pick and choose what they read. They have used images at the top of the page which allows them to see what might be included in the magazine, along with the page number. They have used a mixture of traditional and serif fonts to continue the house style whilst creating a traditional yet contemporary feel to the magazine.

At the side of the page, they have included some coupons encouraging further the reader to purchase the magazine, and by making them related to the region gives the reader more of a regional feel. They have used a mixture of colours on the page to make it interesting, and by including so many topics this makes the magazine seem worthwhile purchasing for the reader.

They have used a single page advertisement, this time for a School. By advertising a school in this magazine, they are reiterating the regional feel for the reader. The use of image makes it stand out to the reader, and by including an instrument connotes to the reader that they are being taught to a high standard and by sending your child there, they will receive this standard of education. The yellow colours for the bottom half of the page, ties in the advert to complete it with the contrasting black sell line.