A news feature is a non-fiction article that explores a specific subject and often uses narrative techniques to engage the reader. Unlike news stories, which provide information quickly and concisely, a feature article takes time to examine the topic from multiple angles. As such, a news feature is not time-sensitive and can be published weeks, months or even years after the event.
To write a news feature, choose a topic that is both relevant and engaging to readers. Then, find a unique angle on the topic and build your story around it. For example, if your news feature is about the effects of a new disease on a community, consider how that disease affects one person’s life in particular. Alternatively, you could also focus on how that disease is impacting families, businesses and entire communities.
Once you’ve identified the angle for your news feature, it’s important to research your topic thoroughly. This will help you provide context and deeper insight into the issue. In addition, it’s important to use the “show, don’t tell” technique. For example, instead of simply saying “Johnny was tired after running up the hill,” explain how his legs were aching and how his face looked red and puffed.
Lastly, news features require a high level of accuracy and brevity. Moreover, it’s best to be on location as much as possible to witness and report the action. For example, Poynter writes that a reporter should hear sirens and see children play to truly understand the scene.
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