Magazine Conventions

Masthead - The name of the magazine displayed in the typeface in which it is designed. This is the visual branding of the title and is usually done in a unique typeface to be recognisable.
Main Image - In the case of this cover there is a shot of the band 'The Last Shadow Puppets'. It is used in a classic way, their faces are big enough to make an impact on the news-stand as Alex Turner and Miles Kane are making full eye-contact.
Cover Lines - 'NME' uses a lot of cover lines, which are distributed down the left hand side of the main image without distracting from it too much.
Main Cover Line - This is very large - taking up nearly half of the cover area - and comes in three layers; the name of the band members, their band name, and a quote from the interview inside. The main cover line is shown in white and red text up against the black of the jackets, helping it stand out and ensuring that it shows up clearly.
Selling Line - Short, sharp description of the magazine. In this case it is 'New Musical Express' which also stands for the magazine name NME.
Left Third - The left third of the cover is vital for selling the issue in shops where the magazine is not shown full-frontage. The title must be easily recognisable in a display of dozens of competitors. The start of the masthead is important here.
Bar code, Price and Date - Standard on a magazine, put there by retailers. Included for shop owners to scan and to let the audience know how much the magazine is and what issue it is.