Format research: Advertisement 1

The central image in this advertisement is the main focal point as it takes up most of the page as well as it being a very unusual photograph. Evidently, the artist ‘Ed Sheeran’ is holding a large cat. This cat relates to the fact ‘Ed Sheeran’ has a paw print as his logo on his album and website homepage etc. Both the animal and the artist are looking into the camera and therefore the audience are drawn in. The fact that the image is so unique makes this advert really interesting. A main aspect of this image is that it us all black, white and grey apart for Ed Sheerans hair which is orange. This colour relates to his branded colour scheme of this advert as well as his album covers and website homepage. The next element considered by the viewers is the masthead at the top right of the page stating the name of the artist. Unlike Ed Sheerans website homepage, this advertisement does not follow consistent fonts. The masthead is in an urban font whereas the rest of the writing is in a typewriter style. Because of this, the masthead really stands out as well as the fact it’s one of the bits that is also in colour. When looking at the writing stating when and where the album would be out, they have used the real logos fir ‘HMV’ and ‘iTunes’. This may be because the logos would be recognised and therefore stand out to the audience. This advertisement also shows the price of the album. This is a good way of promoting the CD as it gives the audience how much it would be however when looking at other advertisements, this has not be done. When I am designing my own advertisement I will not put the price on as I do not believe it is an important aspect and could possibly distract my audiences. Below the price, are two quotes from a review describing good things about the album which is a great way of promoting the album and has a positive effect on the audience. Also contributing to this is the 5 stars at the bottom of the page demonstrating the rating of the album being released.

To the bottom left of the page is the ‘parental advisory’ logo showing that the target audience is more likely directed towards teenagers and over’s and would suit young children without parental consent. The parental advisory is usually shown on albums that may contain sensitive subjects such as drugs and sex, or if the songs include rude words. When looking overall at this advertisement, many aspects promote and sell the album such as the reviews and therefore when designing my advertisement I will consider these factors to make mine as successful as this one, however I will most likely use more consistent fonts and colours which will direct the audiences eye towards the more important elements.