Dominant image is always looking directly at the reader to draw them in. The vocalist or main guitarist is normally at the forefront as they are the most popular among fans. The artists are usually wearing black or other dark colours and either have a seductive, invitational, aggressive or comic facial expression. The camera angle is at eye level and the dominant image is usually a mid-shot or a close-up if there is only one person. The images were most likely taken in a studio so specific lighting could be used and so the background could be edited.

Typically, the whole band is looking directly at the reader rather than just a specific band member (however, in some occasions the band members are looking away from the reader). The facial expression is normally invitational, to draw the reader in, or aggressive, which matches the genre of music and appeals to the target audience. The dominant image is usually a mid-shot or a medium long-shot (though sometimes they use a close-up) and the camera angle is at eye-level. The images were most likely taken in a studio so the background could be edited or in an urban area.

On my own front cover I will use a mid-shot so the reader will be able to see the majority of the model’s face and body. They will be looking directly at the reader and their expression will be invitational so the reader will be drawn in. This is all very typical of rock and metal magazines. However, to make my magazine different, rather than do my photoshoot in a studio, it will take a place outside in a park with natural lighting. This will give the dominant image a natural, mysterious look as there will be lots of foliage.