How does your media product represent particular social groups?



I have chosen an image of Slash to compare with my front cover model as they are both psychographically and demographically similar and would attract a similar audience. Both shots are between mid, and full shots, however mine has more space above the models head to allow room for the masthead on the image. Another similarity between the images is subjective gaze both models have, however the model in my image is looking away from the camera do give the impression he is thinking about something. This will connote different things to every reader and may leave some wondering whats behind this particular gazing look. Another similarity is the costumes the models are wearing which both include skinny jeans, and a t-shirt - layered with a denim jacket. Both models are also wearing aviator sunglasses to disguise their eyes from the reader, and their hair is very similar apart from the colour. Both models have neutral facial expressions which connotes a "cool" attitude. The setting of both images is largely similar, with both representing an outside, and urban lifestyle. Both their stances also connote an aspect of rebelleion, which is cemented in the image of slash with the cigarette in his mouth. A final similarity is how both models are holding Gibson les paul guitars as props,and in a largely similar way. The only difference here is that the opposing image of slash shows a slightly more aggressive attitude with how he is posing with the guitar. Both pictures show a pro-consumerist image, as these guitars are likely to be advertised in this genre of music magazine. The magazine will want to promote these guitars further by using them as props in the images. This is because magazines rely on advertising for a considerable percentage of their income.

Demographically the models show similarities too in that they are both male and of a similar race. However the magazine is psychographically specific, not demographically specific as it target people who have similar interests, but who may come form many different walks of life. For instance, fans of this magazine could be from a very low class background, or from a middle class background. The genre of music my magazine covers appeals to many different people.