Feature stories

Definition

Feature stories are in-depth articles or segments that explore a particular subject, event, or person beyond the standard news reporting. These stories often focus on human interest, emotions, and storytelling techniques, allowing journalists to engage viewers and provide a richer understanding of the topic at hand. Unlike hard news, feature stories may include personal anecdotes, detailed descriptions, and a narrative style that captivates the audience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Feature stories often run longer than typical news segments, allowing for a more detailed exploration of the subject matter.
2. They can include a variety of formats, such as profiles, trend pieces, and explanatory articles, catering to different storytelling approaches.
3. Feature stories are usually scheduled for specific segments in newscasts, providing opportunities for networks to showcase creative storytelling.
4. They engage audiences on an emotional level, making viewers care about the people and events being presented.
5. The success of feature stories often relies on strong visuals and compelling interviews that enhance the narrative and draw viewers in.

Review Questions

• How do feature stories differ from traditional news reporting in terms of structure and content?
  • Feature stories differ from traditional news reporting primarily in their depth and storytelling approach. While traditional news focuses on delivering the facts quickly and efficiently about current events, feature stories take a more narrative-driven format that delves into the emotional aspects and nuances of a topic. This allows for richer storytelling through personal anecdotes and detailed descriptions that engage the audience more deeply.
• Discuss how assignment editors play a role in determining which feature stories get air time in newscasts.
  • Assignment editors are crucial in deciding which feature stories are selected for broadcast by evaluating the potential impact and relevance of each story. They assess various pitches from reporters, considering factors such as viewer interest, emotional appeal, and the uniqueness of the story. Their decisions shape the content of newscasts by balancing hard news with engaging feature stories that can attract viewers and enhance overall programming.
• Evaluate the importance of integrating feature stories into newscast structure in order to maintain viewer engagement.
  • Integrating feature stories into newscast structure is essential for maintaining viewer engagement because it breaks up the flow of hard news with more emotionally resonant content. By offering narratives that connect with viewers on a personal level, broadcasters can cultivate a loyal audience who appreciates diverse storytelling approaches. This blend not only informs but also entertains and engages audiences, creating a well-rounded viewing experience that enhances the overall impact of the newscast.

Related terms

Human interest story: A type of feature story that emphasizes the emotional or personal elements of a topic, often showcasing individual experiences and perspectives.

Narrative journalism: A style of journalism that tells stories in a narrative form, blending factual reporting with literary techniques to enhance storytelling.

Soft news: News content that is less urgent and more focused on lifestyle, entertainment, or human interest topics, as opposed to hard news which covers breaking events.