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How to Conduct a TV News Interview

Member
By christihope
User-Submitted Article
(3 Ratings)

As a freelance TV reporter, conducting a good interview is key to producing a great story. If you do the interview correctly, you will get all the essential information needed and often a voice that brings life and substance to your story.

Difficulty: Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Video photographer or cameraman
  • Video camera with tripod
  • Video tape for recording interview
  • Stick or lavalier microphone
  1. Step 1

    Prepare by researching the topic and person who you are interviewing.

  2. Step 2

    Formulate a list of questions that are short and direct. Plan the order of your questions: Start with innocuous ones, then lead up to more serious questions.

  3. Step 3

    Pre-interview whenever possible to limit the line of questioning. This will make the interview brief and allow you to ask the really important questions when the camera is rolling.

  4. Step 4

    Look for a suitable backdrop for the actual interview, if possible. It should be related to the topic or interviewee. If you are interviewing a chef, make sure the background is the restaurant dining area or kitchen.

  5. Step 5

    Dress to fit the occasion. If you are interviewing a CEO, wear a suit or other appropriate business attire.

  6. Step 6

    Treat the interview like a conversation, but make sure you stay focused on the topic or issue. Avoid "yes" or "no" questions.

  7. Step 7

    Show respect and listen carefully to your subject. Be ready to shift the direction of the interview, if warranted.

  8. Step 8

    Approach spontaneous or on-the-street interview subjects in a friendly yet professional manner. Keep the interviews brief and focused.

Tips & Warnings
  • TV Reporters normally have a photographer who will handle the camera and microphone for them. But if you're a "one-man-band," set your camera on a tripod, and use a wired or wireless lavalier for the interview.

Comments  

edd666666 said

Flag This Comment

on 6/26/2009 Good tips, you hit all the basics, thanks Ed, http://www.conductknockoutbroadcastinterviews.com/blog/

edd666666 said

Flag This Comment

on 6/26/2009 Good tips, you hit all the basics, thanks Ed, http://www.conductknockoutbroadcastinterviews.com/blog/

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