Post 4

Editorial design deals with the framework and presentation of a story that affects the way it is viewed, read and interpreted, and consists of the structure and treatment of the publication; it is also known as visual journalism.

Taking a look at the example of magazine covers on the left, one can see that each has its own individual look, feel, and tone that conveys the magazine's, or brand's, message.  Vogue simply needs a simple photo of a beautiful woman is all that is needed--there is no need for a fancy or busy design as there is already weight in the brand.  Time magazine is known for its intelligent and cultured discussion on American and global affairs--its brand is also quite well-known, usually being marketed with simple yet impactful pictures.  Heat magazine is, in contrast to the two above, less concerned of significant matters, but more on attracting a particular, younger audience--the cover features a busy design that inundates the viewer with juicy gossip and information.  Vanity Fair is an elegant and intelligent magazine that informs people of the current affairs of art, style, and pop culture through sophisticated content and design.

As these magazines demonstrate, editorial design aims to communicate an idea or story through the use of visuals and language in a way that brings life to it while functionally organizing the material to draw and maintain the readers' attention.  

Another element to consider in editorial design is magazine paper size--tabloids are generally 35.5centimeters by 30.5 centimeters; beliners are generally 47 by 31.5 centimeters; broadsheets are generally 56 by 43.2 centimeters.  There are a number of other sizes for newspapers and magazines that are used, but these dimensions make up the majority of paper sizes worldwide.

As editorial design is used to speak to, reflect, and influence culture and people, it allows us, by examining magazines and newspapers of different eras, to view the culture of the era in which it is produced--what was considered fashionable and stylish, what was celebrated, what was idealized, and other factors.

I find it so intriguing to consider how simple design affects what type of person will be attracted to it, the way readers feel when they pick up a magazine, and how they interpret it.  It's fascinating how it becomes necessary to really be in tune with popular culture (or at least a form of popular culture) in order to be able to market appropriately back to the desired culture.