Conventions of a Magazine Cover

• Masthead - Placed at the top, large, eye-catching, creates brand identity, makes audience instantly recognise it
• Coverlines - Stories - placed left and right, main feature article in a larger font in the middle
• Header/Footer Bar - Block of colour at the top and bottom to advertise
• Main Image - A picture of one or more people, direct mode of address, usually just one image, head and shoulders shot or long shot
• Puff - Shape to advertise exclusive content or free product
• Bar code - Includes the prices, issue number, website usually
• Slogan/Tagline - explains content, makes it stand out, makes reader wonder and want to know more
• Variety of Fonts - Makes the coverlines more interesting and differ from each other
• Colour pallete - Only uses 2 or 3 colours to create a house style

The main function of a magazine cover is to sell the magazine and so are deliberately made eye-catching, interesting, bold and brightly coloured to attract attention. The cover will usually also try to create a loyal audience/relationship by maintaining a house style making the cover instantly recognisable for it's audience.