Research - double page spread

Both of these images are double page features from the magazine 'Kerrang!'.

The two features are quite similar in terms of codes and conventions used and layout.

Images

Both main images take up at least half of the content. I believe this is a successful feature as it draws in the target audience who are most likely interested in these bands and would buy the magazine just to see/read about them. The use of large images also doubles up as a 'poster' feature to the magazine as my target audience are typically interested in music and may want to tear out the poster to keep.

Another feature of the images that are similar is both images feature the band with quite a serious, stern look. This is a typical convention of the genre as in a 'Rock/Alternative' magazine, the bands are more likely to want to have a certain strong image/persona rather than be all smiles and laughter. This again relates to the target audience as they want to see the band for how their persona comes across, as that is who they are interested rather than completely contrasting on-stage and off-stage personalities.

For my own magazine I will use a similar scale of image on my double page spread, for both its aesthetics and dual functionality.

Colour scheme

The colour scheme for the two different features is quite contrasting even though they are from the same publication.
The feature on the right uses grey, black and white tones. These tones may be used to relate to the bands target audience. It may be that these colours suit the band in terms of the colours they are usually associated with for items such as album covers and merchandise. It may also reflect the target audience of the band as they may be more serious and care more about the actual content of the article rather than the imagery.
In comparison, the feature on the left uses much brighter colours such as yellow, red and blue in conjunction with black and white tones. This may again to reflect the bands brand identity and relate to albums, logos and merchandise. Furthermore, this band may be aimed at a slightly more 'Pop/Rock' target audience whereas the first image may be a more serious 'Rock' band.

I will decide more on my double page spread colour scheme when I have chosen my model, but I believe I will go for white and black tones with accents of bolder colours - similar to my cover - as I believe it is effective in both looking more aesthetically pleasing and creating a more exciting feel to the article.

Content/layout
The layout of both images are a typical magazine article layout. They both follow the codes and conventions of articles as they are in columns. I believe this is effective as it displays the information in a clear and concise way.
The content of the magazine doesn't really include a lot of text. Both articles follow a basic question and answer structure which I believe to be successful as this ensures only useful, interesting information is included. This will appeal to the target audience as they are more interested in the exciting, fun facts about the band rather than uninteresting information.

In my own magazine I will follow the codes and conventions and use a similar layout, using a question and answer structure and featuring columns to set out my information. I will also ensure I only include interesting information about my featured character in order to appeal to my target audience and maintain their interest.