For my media project I have chosen to complete number 8 of the tasks. This is to produce a front cover of a local newspaper, along with a hyperlinked page from the newspapers website, and a poster for the newspaper. I feel this choice will work to my advantage as I am more familiar with newspapers than websites. As both a media and English student, I have previously analysed visual aspects of front covers, along with having to produce newspaper articles. This previous knowledge will help me in designing my front cover in order to attract readers to the product. I feel I am strong in creative writing, which I will adapt to the purpose of my newspaper.
Initially, I was interested in creating a stereotypical local newspaper (free, and received in the post) however I began to find this dull and uninspiring. During this time I began applying to universities where I used a series of leaflets and brochures to decide. I noticed a lack of local papers or magazines focused on universities and the lifestyle. This encouraged me to begin brainstorming about a university focused newspaper aimed at 17 - 19 year olds. Although the newspaper will be local, it will include news and features about universities across the country. Locally the newspaper will cover student life, advising on finance and health, whilst giving money saving tips on leisure, dining and household. From university I have seen, I found they are specific to the university attended, and the specific area. As I am of the age group targeted, I will have a basic knowledge of what is needed to attract readers to my product, and what issues need to be addressed. To attract my audience I aim to produce a contemporary, bold and clean cut cover.
I will be researching existing university magazines in order to see how they have been laid out in terms of masthead, strapline and the splash (terms explained in detail after). Taking notes on colour schemes used will indicate what attracts people to read them. As is is a local newspaper based on advising student I am contemplating marketing this product as free. The purpose of the paper will mean it could be distributed in places such as libraries, leisure centres, colleges and youth centres. Alternatively it could be distributed through the post.
After researching existing papers, I will brainstorm ideas for the name of my paper, then designing several visual identities (logo). During the processes of designing the front page I will survey fellow students to establish the best design. The reliability of these results will be high as the people being surveyed could potentially be the people my paper will be of the same age.
Throughout this process I will be documenting my efforts through this blog. Improving on last year, I will need to use the blog more effectively and most on a regular basis. I will also need to devote further time to the practical side of this project, as the software used is unfamiliar to me.
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