The Conventions of a Magazine Cover

Mainstream

• Magazine's name clearly displayed to promote their product.
• Main image used as the magazine's focal point.
• Includes price and barcode.
• Cover is usually busy so as to tease the audience.
• Generally promotes well known films.
• Seen as more profit-orientated, i.e. a business.

Independent

• Usually much simpler in its form, i.e. little (to no) writing - only outlines the top stories covered in the magazine. This could be because independent magazines sometimes have a cult following.
• Main image sometimes distorted/drawn, rather than having a photoshoot which can be costly.
• Includes price and barcode.
• Generally promotes lesser known films.
• Seen as more content orientated, i.e. creating something they enjoy whilst perhaps gaining a small amount of profit.