Drafting and planning/ Research into similar products

I have decided it is time to have a look at why I need a successful billboard advertisement to promote my magazine.

Why outdoor advertising works

While some traditional advertising media are in decline, outdoor is growing. It works because it is seen by everyone who leaves their house.

Poster advertising is highly prominent and does not require the consumer to do anything to access it. You don't have to tune in or click onto it or turn a page. At the same time, most people regard it as less intrusive than other methods of advertising. Indeed, a lot of outdoor advertising engages the consumer, providing colour, humour and insight. In locations where it sits in front of a captive audience — on public transport or at waiting places, for instance — it can even be seen as a welcome distraction.

This information was found at: Billboard research

I understand that my billboard advertisement must mirror my magazine advertisement. Therefore I must use the same font and house colours. This will make my billboard exhibit the same message as my magazine. Furthermore, as you don’t have to pay to view a billboard advertisement, it is obvious that it must be extremely effective and eye catching because this is what people ultimately see by just going outdoors, as it is free to view from the public, it must advertise the magazine to a high standard, causing them to buy it.

From looking at other billboard advertisements, it has stood out that there must be an enormous, clear picture that captures the attention of my target audience. As my magazine is going to be a student issue, I feel it is necessary to make my billboard exciting and fun. Therefore, rather than just placing one image in the centre, I have creatively come up with the idea of a photo collage for my billboard advertisement, an image which will link to all of the topics found in my magazine.

Within my collage, there will be a sports photo, a music photo, something to do with the student news, and attractions in the city centre. 

Here are some examples of images I may think to include:

The German Market in Birmingham - great for students to experience.

Annie Mac Presents, an image from her gig in Birmingham - advertising music events.

A map of key places to visit in Birmingham if they are an EU/International student.

Key news they must look out for.

Selfridges!

Birmingham Central Library - a key place students will visit regularly and the key news about it.

Sports - an opportunity for students to see football/athletics results and chances to win tickets.

I will keep these pictures in mind when I go to take my pictures for my magazine/billboard.