A news feature is a non-time-sensitive story that explores a subject matter in greater depth than a breaking news article. It allows writers to approach topics with more subjective tones and uses storytelling techniques to engage readers.
This type of news article typically follows the inverted pyramid structure, putting the most important information at the beginning and building up to a climax. It covers a variety of subjects, such as product launches, political elections, court rulings, and company announcements.
Unlike a news article, a news feature can be more emotionally engaging for the reader. This is because the writer has a freer hand with the narrative, and can use literary techniques such as “show don’t tell” to help readers connect with the topic.
For example, the BBC’s story of children trapped in a fire is a heart-warming example of a well-told news feature. By using a mix of illustrations and photographs to paint a vivid picture, the article succeeds in giving readers a feeling of being inside the situation.
A news feature can also focus on a more abstract subject, such as culture or history. This is where the opportunity to be creative and engaging really comes into play. For example, when Arab News wanted to showcase Saudi Arabia’s UNESCO world heritage sites, they opted for a feature article rather than a short form news report. By using a range of interactive elements, like maps and historical photos, the article is able to explain in detail how each site has evolved over time.
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