When looking through the front pages shown on newseum.org, I came across a rather disturbing and controversial picture in the OC Post. The front page of this publication simply has a picture of a bed used for executions with the headline reading “The End?” I understand what the newspaper was doing when they chose this picture and this page layout. It does catch a readers attention and creates an interest of what is to be read inside the paper. However, the topic of the death penalty is very controversial in this country, and this front page throws a rather graphic image in the reader’s face. As a copy editor for the OC Post, I would have to read the story and decide if this picture accurately represents the tone of the story.
5 comments:
When I was searching for subjects to post about this cover caught my eye as well. While I was slightly offended by the breast story I posted about, I wasn't offended by this picture.
But the picture did lure me to figure out more about the publication. I found that the OC Post is a rehashing of news stories from its mother paper, The Orange County Register. It is an attempt by the publication to reach those who would normally avoid the daily newspaper. Thus, I think it is worth mentioning that The OC Post needs a large color photograph to grab stubborn readers' attentions, whether the image is controversial or not. I am sure that shocking people, or making them laugh or think, just for a second, is certainly part of the method.
I don't really take issue with the cover graphic at all. I think the OC Post is getting the message across that it is indeed a critical time for the death penalty and the graphic simply grabs readers.
The image merely shows readers what the death row chair looks like. It is not a pretty sight but it is real.
In our own state the death penalty has been the topic of discussion with some critics of outlawing the death penalty saying that the people on death row deserve the sentence they are given. However, by showing the method in place it might change readers opinions of the "humane" nature of the death penalty.
There is no need to sugar coat the issue and I believe the publication did a good job of putting it out there.
I agree with Jessica. It is both eye-catching and sets the tone of the debate very realistically. There is no need for a publication to tip-toe around controversial issues. Now we can only hope the article inside illustrates the issue as well as the cover photo.
I think the use of the headline in this front page is amazing. The way the question "The end?" is floating over the electric bed definetely makes me want to read more about the story. I also like the three dimentional effect this headline and photo create. Also the use of color in the paper's flag and in the rimming of the electric bed is identical in their red hue. The white in the headline also balances well with the whiteness of the floor in the photograph. It is unique how the subhead is written on the bed as well. As for its being offending, I am not sure if I agree. I would have to read the story itself to know if it is inappropriate.
I have to agree that I don't take offense to this picture. It does intrigue me to wonder what the article inside is about, which is exactly what a photograph is supposed to do, catch the reader's attention and hold on to it.
I also agree with Amanda that publications should not tip toe around controversial issues. To me, the whole point of a publication is to bring controversial issues to the reader's attention and bring out both points of that issue. Since the picture did such a good job in catching the reader's attention (at least for me it did) I would hope that the article supports such a strong picture and raises interesting points on the death penalty.
The only thing I would criticize about this photo is perhaps the title, "The End?" For me, it seems a little to cliche and I think the editor could have came up with something a little more catchy to match with the tone of the photo.
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