Goal for media texts should be something recognisable and familiar (utilise familiar codes and conventions) 

Subgenres are used too as for example all rock music does not sound the same so it makes sense to split it into more specific ideas e.g. alternative rock, prog rock etc

Steve Neale : key genre theorist 

. Genre based around tension of similarity and difference

. Predictability and innovation 

Familiarity in media is essential because selling something too left field won’t pick up as much interest – this is why more experimental films will use more film poster like posters, as in fitting in with the competition.

Without deliberate intent to create a creative/innovative unique take on a media text, the exam board may perceive this as “false” to the typical media product. This sort of “innovation” in the texts needs to be included in statement of intents.

More steve neale stuff

. Steve argues that genre-based categories are not fixed commodities. 

. Genres change and subdivide; fuse and die

. There are no fixed lists of ingredients that determine genre.

Repetition and Difference 

Factors used to diagnosed the genre of a product:

. Levels of verisimilitude : degree to which a product references real world

. Narrative similarities : defined story structures or formulaic narrative devices

. Character-driven motifs : audiences expect some genres to deliver explicit character-driven motifs. Lead characters might have defined attributes or follow genre-driven narrative arcs.

. Iconography : refers to mise en scene expectations as well as camera and editing styles.

. Audience targeting : Neale also highlights the way that genres are crafted to create appeal for specific audience segments.

Similarities	Differences
My magazine shall use typical and common features : Price	Focus more on vibrant colour
Date of issue	Not taking itself too seriously
Title/Artist in big stand out lettering
Image of interviewee on the cover
Simple A4 dimensions