Feature interview

Definition

A feature interview is a type of in-depth conversation focused on exploring the life, experiences, or insights of an individual in a way that goes beyond basic reporting. It aims to create a narrative that connects the subject's story with broader themes or issues, often incorporating personal anecdotes and emotional depth to engage the audience. By highlighting unique aspects of the subject's life, feature interviews are crafted to evoke empathy and provide a richer understanding of their context.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Feature interviews often include open-ended questions to allow subjects to express themselves freely and share detailed stories.
2. These interviews can cover a wide range of subjects, from artists and activists to everyday people with compelling stories.
3. In a feature interview, the interviewer plays a critical role in guiding the conversation while also allowing for spontaneity.
4. Effective feature interviews often utilize descriptive language and vivid imagery to bring the subject's experiences to life for readers.
5. The goal of a feature interview is not just to inform but also to engage the audience emotionally, creating a deeper connection to the subject.

Review Questions

• How does a feature interview differ from a standard news interview in terms of structure and purpose?
  • A feature interview differs from a standard news interview primarily in its depth and intent. While a standard news interview focuses on gathering facts and information quickly for reporting purposes, a feature interview delves into the personal stories and experiences of the subject. This type of interview emphasizes narrative structure and emotional engagement, aiming to provide insights that resonate with the audience. It allows for more open-ended questions and encourages subjects to share their narratives in detail.
• Discuss the importance of emotional engagement in feature interviews and how it affects audience perception.
  • Emotional engagement in feature interviews is crucial because it allows readers to connect with the subject on a personal level. By sharing relatable experiences and feelings, the interview transforms factual information into a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences. This connection can foster empathy, prompting readers to reflect on broader themes related to the subject's story. Ultimately, this emotional depth enriches the audience's understanding and retention of the story being told.
• Evaluate how narrative structure enhances the effectiveness of feature interviews in conveying complex human experiences.
  • Narrative structure plays a vital role in enhancing feature interviews by organizing complex human experiences into coherent and relatable stories. By employing elements like character development, conflict, and resolution, narrative structure allows for a more engaging presentation of information that captures audience attention. This structured storytelling not only clarifies the subject's journey but also emphasizes key themes, making it easier for audiences to grasp intricate ideas and emotions. The combination of narrative techniques elevates feature interviews from mere reporting to impactful storytelling.

Related terms

Profile Interview: A profile interview is a specific type of feature interview that centers on creating a comprehensive portrayal of an individual, often focusing on their background, accomplishments, and character.

Narrative Structure: Narrative structure refers to the organized way in which a story or account is presented, including elements like plot, character development, and thematic exploration.

Human Interest Story: A human interest story is a journalistic piece that focuses on personal stories or events that evoke emotions and connect with readers on a personal level.