News feature is a genre of article that tells a story using a more narrative style than hard news. They often use interviews, anecdotes and background information to captivate audiences. They are also commonly found in magazines and newspapers.
Like all journalism, a good news feature needs a well researched topic and clear writing. But the best way to produce a news feature is to think about your audience. They should be at the forefront of your mind from the moment you begin planning the story and throughout its production and scheduling.
If you’re working on a radio or television program, ask the producer for the length and format of your feature. You can also listen to previous broadcasts to get a sense of the tone and pace of the program.
Some stories will require a more in-depth treatment than others. For example, when Arab News wanted to showcase Saudi Arabia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, they needed room for in-depth reporting and interviewing. This allowed them to tell a powerful and compelling story that was supported by maps, video, historical pictures and illustrations.
It is important to remember that any sound effects or music used in a news feature should be clearly identified. This helps listeners and viewers avoid confusion about what they are hearing. It is also a good idea to note if you have voiced the words of people who are dead or unavailable to be interviewed.
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