How to Film an Interview

Whether it is on American Idol, a local news program, or Oprah interviews are being conducted every day. With some many interviews going on, it may seem as simple as setting up a camera and hitting record, but there is actually a lot that goes into taping professional interviews. With a little practice, you could be creating great interviews in no time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Video Camera
• <br>Tripod
• <br>Microphone
• <br>List of Questions
• <br>Cameraman (optional)

1. Before going into an interview, you need to decide who your subject is going to be and what the topic is. If you are covering a high-profile case, one of your interviewers may want to be a witness in the trial or one of the lawyers. If it is a sports game, you will want to interview the best players and possibly the coaches.

2. With the subject in place, it is time to create a list of questions for the subject. Make more than enough questions because a couple of quick answers could leave the interview short and you will want to make sure that you have plenty of material. Also, make sure that you try to avoid yes or no questions. Ask questions with open ended answers so that they cannot answer with just a simple “yes” or “no."

3. Try to set up the equipment before the subject arrives. This way, the subject does not become impatient and you can begin the interview right away. In some cases this is not possible, so be prepared to set-up as quickly as possible.

4. The best camera shot to have is either placing the interviewee in the right or left of the frame with some type of fill. For example, if you are interviewing a lawyer, place him in the left side of the camera’s frame and fill the right side with something like a bookshelf or a courthouse in the background.

5. Before you begin, introduce yourself and have some casual conversation to lighten the mood and become more comfortable. This will make the interview more comfortable and make sure you save the hardest questions for later.

6. You should always use a microphone when conducting an interview. Whether it is a microphone by their side, a boom microphone, or even one they wear, a microphone will help pick up the best audio and make the video sound more professional.

7. Try not to have the person conduct the interview by looking into the camera. Stand a couple of feet away from the opposite side that they are framed in and have them look at you. That way, viewers will be more comfortable and the interview will not feel so direct.

8. Take your time with your questions and as they are answering questions, try to think of follow up or linked questions to the interview. The more material the better, and anything could be cut in post-production.