They come in two styles, in the victim’s voice and house
style.
The byline will usually be in the spine of the magazine if
it is a more upmarket publication, such as the Guardian Weekend magazine, but
in magazines such as ‘Take A Break’ and ‘Closer’, the byline will be in the
form of a very short introduction, for example: ‘Person A tells her emotional story
to Person B’.
The actual interview should last about 45 minutes, this
allows the interviewer to get as much information as possible and lets them have
a choice on what to include. These are better if they are done face to face and
with precise questioning.
Confessional interviews are the staple of women’s magazines.
These magazines are usually weeklies and not pegged to news, but always human
interest. The interviews are sometimes about a ‘battle’ against something.
Interviews of this type in newspapers are usually pegged to
news, for example an interview with the survivor of a recent train crash. An
interview with the survivor of a train crash would usually be included as part
of a package, such as a double page spread.
Confessional interviews in trade magazines are less dramatic
than in magazines and newspapers, but there still needs to be something
exciting that will grab the readers.
How to find a subject for a confessional interview
Look for ‘victims’.
People who have ‘battled’ against an illness.
Go to support groups.
Internet
Phonebook
Newspapers – local and national
The best subjects are those who can speak confidently and
will give you plenty of information. They need to be honest and open about what
has happened. Try and get someone who will be able to give you pictures as
well.
Someone who’s story has a happy ending, for example they got
the all clear after having cancer.
Avoid people who have mental health issues, those who are
confessing to crime, people with Munchausen’s Syndrome or a friend/relative.
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