Codes and Conventions of a digipak

Digipaks for artists all have a similar style and layout. To create a professional looking digipak there are codes and conventions I need to include to make a successful digipak.
There are usually 2 or 3 compartments. If the album has 2 discs, which is usually for a compilation cd or a limited edition album with a dvd, then there will be 3 compartments, for which 2 will be for the discs and the other for the booklet. (Like image above). For a 1 disc digipak there will be a compartment for the cd and and the other for the booklet and front image.
All digipaks include:

• A visual image
• The band name and album name
• Track Listing
• Basic background information about the band/artist
• Sometimes, some digipaks include reviews from critics
• Bar code and the name and logo of the music label

The conventions of a digipak are found in similar places on each digipak.

Front Cover - The front cover includes a main image of either the band/artist or a piece of artwork which relates to the album title or the band name. This is the main attraction of the cover and is designed to catch the audiences eye. Also, included is the artist name and album title. The writing is usually big and bold to make it clear whose album we are looking at.

Here is an example of Biffy Clyro's album 'Puzzle'. It is clear what the picture is based on as the image is of a guy made to look like a Jigsaw to relate to the album name. Although the text at the top isn't very big and bold the background is quite simple which, after noticing the image, makes it clear for us to see.

Inside booklet - In most (if not every) digipak, you get a mini booklet with the cd. The booklet inside usually include either lyrics to the songs or images of band/related to album songs, a page from the band itself saying their thanks to the people who helped them produce the album, inspirations and general thanks. Also included at the back in the credits of producers, directors, music labels, and writers. Included in the booklet where the songs are listed, the names of who wrote the song, who produced it, who sung it and other credits to involvment in the song.

Disc and Inside - When you open the digipak you will see the disc and the back of the booklet. The cd usually include a printed photo or words, which most digipaks just use the same image which is on the front of the album cover. Behind the cd sometimes the theme of the album cover is usually carried onto the inside of the cd.

Here you can see The Killers digipak. Behind the cd you can see there is an image which is similar to the one which is on the disc. Most cd digipaks have a similar theme rather than keeping the background plain and to make it look more interesting.

Back of album - On the back of the album, the main thing is the track listing. There is usually a list or organised way the songs which are found on the album on the back. There is the barcode which is allocated at the back, usually at the bottom of the case, as most products do. Also found in small writing on the back is the credits, which are similar to what we see in the back of the booklet. Naming the record label, who produced the album, the musical directors etc.

Here is an example from The Beatles album ' Abbey Road'. Some albums also include another image at the back which associates with the album or artist. The image is usually similar to that on the front cover.