The news feature (also known as a “long form” or a documentary) is an opportunity for journalists to explore an issue with a larger, more in-depth focus. Unlike hard news, which is short and crisp, the feature can be longer, and it gives reporters a chance to go behind the scenes with a subject and get more intimate with the people involved. News features can be found in newspapers, magazines and on radio and television.
A good news feature is based on solid reporting and research. It’s often a good idea to include experts who can provide some background or context. For example, if you are writing about a local drug epidemic, interview police and counselors who specialize in the problem. In addition, incorporating large-scale stats is a great way to give your story some weight and validity. For instance, if you are reporting on homelessness in your city, interview some homeless people, but also speak with a criminologist or social worker who can talk about the overall numbers of homeless people in the area.
Generally speaking, people are more interested in things that happen close to home. However, this is not always the case, and some subjects are timeless enough that they can be covered in a feature at any time. The key is to find a story that deserves the space and the attention of your readers. In addition to the basic news story structure, a news feature must include the following elements: