Question 2

How does your media product represent particular social groups?
I feel that the title of my magazine it self shows some of the representations held by my production. "Offbeat" tells us that this magazine does not follow typical generic styings. Whilst it does appeal to similar audiences it does this in a different way.
I feel that the photographs included on my contents page show that this production is aimed at both genders, given that both male and female models are used. The fact that close ups are often used shows that this magazine is trying to appeal to both genders openly. Several of the photos are also taken at a straight angle, I feel that by doing this, coupled with a white background shows that I am not stereotyping my audience. Many magazines show photographs of bands performing, I feel that giving my models a white background gives a more sophisticated edge to my magazine and shows that my target audience are not always loud and aggressive. Also, the band photos taken for my double page spread of "The Avengers", rather then being of a heavy metal band, or performace, were taken at a seaside in Weston Supermare. By doing this I feel that the photography has been given an artistic edge. Also the models themselves have been dressed to look more stylish, rather then band T-shirts, long hair and Guitars. By doing this, I feel again that I wil be breaking the stereotype of who purchases Indie magazines. The target audience of my magazine was 18-25 year olds interested in indie and rock music. Often this target audience is far more intelligent then magazines such as Kerrang! give them credit for.