TV Guide Magazine = Genius Olympic Coverage

So I’ve been backed up with my blogging and magazine subscriptions but I just wanted to give props to TV Guide Magazine for always executing fun, catchy, clear designs and easy to read and understand content. In the February 15th to 28th issue, the entertainment magazine provided readers with everything they needed to know about the Olympics prior to it its airing.

Here is the first spread to the 10 page Olympics preview. The photos are fun and draw the reader into wanting to learn more. The byline peaks curiosity as it reads:

“O Canada! NBC plans a blizzard of coverage from the Vancouver Games”

How fun does that sound? Are you really going to shut the magazine now? Not only is it appropriate for the type of event in conjunction with the time of year, but it’s also appropriate for a mass of what’s ahead.

Amazing Race and .. photo placement
Originally uploaded by Marisa Sanfilippo

Skipping over to the 6th page of this coverage, one of the first things noticeable is the man at the bottom of the page - Alpine skier Daron Rahives. He is looking to the outside of this page. Normally, placing a photo like this would be breaking a law of editorial design, unless however, you want the reader to turn the page over. Don’t you want to know what he is looking at? You know you want to turn the page, and you will. Even though the next spread has nothing to do with the Alpine guy, there’s more coverage and the designer wants you to read it. The last spread of this coverage is a simple, easy to read broadcasting schedule.

TV Guide Magazine = Genius

Every issue has a hot list of what the magazine thinks is worth watching for the current two weeks. It gives a brief description of the show complete with air time, network and air date. So easy to read, even a blind person can do it.. well... maybe not... but.. an idiot sure can. Everything is organized well so the reader doesn't have to go crazy trying to figure stuff out. Reading magazines should not be stressful. And just like a lot the shows and celebrities in TV Guide Magazine, reading this magazine is fun for anyone with a personality and sense of humor.