To the grand finale regarding the research portion of this project, I thought it'd be interesting to do a brief summary of everything I've learned/ general codes and conventions for contemporary and lifestyle magazines like I had done initially; similar to the introduction/conclusion type of setup essays have.
Although most magazines use a clear grid, some subtly tweak it. For instance, text blocks may align off-center or a main image might bleed off the side. The "rule of thirds" is often applied, but with the understanding that asymmetry can be just as, if not more engaging than a standard symmetrical layout.
There's often a very intentional set of fonts (2-4 main ones) used in magazines depending on what aspect is being worked on (headlines, pull quotes, etc.) With the contrast highlighting important information and creating visual appeal. Some fonts are synonymous to the particular aesthetic and influencing the feel . Line spacing (leading)is adjusted (body text especially) for improved readability. Kerning (between characters) is adjusted, especially for headlines and logos influencing the intended feel; which can make a drastic difference. Editors/designers will often times rephrase line breaks or adjust them to eliminate them. https://practicaltypography.com/ https://fontsinuse.com/
There's often a carefully curated color palette regarding the magazine genre, that goes beyond aesthetic value. It's about conveying mood and guiding the eye. The consistent use of particular colors create cohesive visual identity across the issue. Image cropping is additionally intentional, used for emphasizing certain elements and directing the reader gaze. The gaze of subjects in pictures looking at camera engage the reader, and those looking away may be guiding the reader to something else. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Eliane_Karsaklian/publication/317178916_A_Picture_Can_be_Worth_a_Thousand_Stories_Interpreting_Advertising_Differently_in_10_Countries/links/592a7f0f458515e3d469fa64/A-Picture-Can-be-Worth-a-Thousand-Stories-Interpreting-Advertising-Differently-in-10-Countries.pdf https://color.adobe.com/trends https://www.pantone.com/color-systems/pantone-color-systems-explained?srsltid=AfmBOooqeb_Glf9WNvsLmjt_ShLgqTFybREqENh022ZYgbVFVfH7-t8c
https://eyeondesign.aiga.org/ The relationship between the layout impacts the storytelling. What do I mean by this? For example, a full page image might be partnered with a small, intriguing headline on the opposite page; or a series of smaller images to suggest a progression or comparison.
Onto content: Lifestyle magazines might feature something luxurious, but the editorial angle will often focus on how the reader can achieve a version of that within their own means. Even "purely observational" articles have the underpinning of the content to provide actionable advice or insights for the readers personal life/call to action. Even though they're not entirely academic, they often feature experts for credibility. While many magazines aim for a broad audience, there are certain features like vocabulary, references or cultural awareness that create a sense of belonging or tend to tailor even more to certain audiences.
Content and color palette is meticulously shifted depending on seasonal trends. While each issue is self-contained, there is at times an overreaching narrative or idea that progresses and extends throughout several issues (ex: the progression of a trend or prominence of an idea over time). The choice of print paper also communicates the magazine price point and identity. Textured and thick matte paper may signify luxury and a glossy stock might be something faster-paced.
https://www.sappi.com/en-us/insights/articles/neuroscience-touch https://magculture.com/
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