🎙️Art of the Interview Unit 8 – Documentary Interview Techniques

What's This Unit About?

• Explores the art and techniques of conducting interviews for documentary films
• Covers the entire process from pre-interview preparation to post-interview editing
• Emphasizes the importance of building rapport with interview subjects
• Discusses various types of documentary interviews (informal, sit-down, on-location)
• Provides practical tips for setting up interviews and handling challenges
• Examines the ethical considerations involved in documentary interviewing
• Aims to equip students with the skills to conduct effective and engaging interviews

Key Concepts and Terminology

• Documentary interview: A conversation between a filmmaker and a subject to gather information and insights for a documentary film
• Open-ended questions: Questions that encourage detailed responses and cannot be answered with a simple yes or no
• B-roll: Supplementary footage used to visually enhance the interview content
• Rapport: A positive relationship between the interviewer and the subject based on trust and understanding
• Informed consent: The process of ensuring that interview subjects understand the purpose and potential consequences of their participation
• Vérité style: A documentary approach that emphasizes capturing candid moments and natural interactions
• Soundbite: A short, memorable excerpt from an interview used in the final documentary
  • Soundbites are often chosen for their clarity, emotional impact, or ability to summarize key points

Types of Documentary Interviews

• Informal interviews: Casual conversations that capture spontaneous moments and genuine reactions
  • Often conducted on-location or during observational filming
• Sit-down interviews: Formal, structured interviews conducted in a controlled setting
  • Allows for more in-depth questioning and focused responses
• On-location interviews: Interviews conducted in a subject's natural environment or a relevant location
  • Provides context and visual interest to the interview content
• Expert interviews: Interviews with individuals who have specialized knowledge or expertise on a topic
• Group interviews: Interviews conducted with multiple subjects simultaneously
  • Can capture group dynamics and differing perspectives on a shared experience
• Biographical interviews: In-depth interviews that explore a subject's life story and personal experiences

Pre-Interview Preparation

• Research the topic and the interview subject thoroughly
  • Gather background information to inform your questions and approach
• Develop a list of potential questions or discussion points
  • Organize questions thematically or in a logical progression
• Communicate with the subject to establish expectations and build initial rapport
• Choose an appropriate location and time for the interview
  • Consider factors such as privacy, comfort, and visual interest
• Test and prepare necessary equipment (cameras, microphones, lighting)
• Review and finalize interview questions based on research and subject communication
• Prepare release forms and obtain necessary permissions

Setting Up the Interview

• Choose a quiet, comfortable location with minimal distractions
• Position the subject and interviewer for optimal framing and eye contact
  • Ensure the subject is well-lit and the background is visually appealing
• Test audio levels and adjust microphone placement for clear sound
• Establish a relaxed and conversational atmosphere
  • Engage in small talk to put the subject at ease
• Review the purpose and format of the interview with the subject
• Obtain signed release forms and informed consent
• Frame the shot and adjust camera settings for desired composition and depth of field

Asking Effective Questions

• Begin with open-ended questions to encourage detailed responses
  • Use prompts such as "Tell me about..." or "Describe your experience with..."
• Listen actively and allow the subject to fully express their thoughts
  • Avoid interrupting or rushing the subject's responses
• Use follow-up questions to clarify or expand on interesting points
  • Ask for specific examples or anecdotes to illustrate key ideas
• Employ active listening techniques (nodding, maintaining eye contact)
• Be prepared to deviate from planned questions based on the subject's responses
  • Pursue unexpected or compelling threads of conversation
• Use silence strategically to encourage the subject to elaborate or reflect
• Avoid leading or biased questions that may influence the subject's responses

Building Rapport with Subjects

• Establish a warm and friendly demeanor
  • Smile, make eye contact, and use open body language
• Show genuine interest in the subject's experiences and perspectives
  • Demonstrate empathy and understanding through active listening
• Find common ground or shared interests to build connection
• Use humor and casual conversation to create a relaxed atmosphere
• Be respectful of the subject's boundaries and comfort level
  • Avoid pushing for information or responses they are unwilling to provide
• Express gratitude for the subject's time and willingness to share their story
• Maintain a professional and ethical approach throughout the interaction

Handling Challenges During Interviews

• Address technical issues promptly (audio problems, lighting adjustments)
  • Have backup equipment and contingency plans in place
• Navigate sensitive or emotionally charged topics with empathy and respect
  • Allow the subject space to process their emotions and offer breaks if needed
• Redirect the conversation if the subject veers off-topic or becomes repetitive
  • Use transitional questions or prompts to refocus the discussion
• Manage time constraints effectively
  • Prioritize key questions and topics while remaining flexible
• Adapt to unexpected interruptions or distractions
  • Maintain focus and professionalism throughout the interview
• Address any discomfort or resistance from the subject
  • Reassure them of the purpose and value of their participation
• Remain calm and composed in the face of challenging or confrontational subjects

Post-Interview Process

• Review and organize interview footage
  • Identify key soundbites and compelling moments
• Transcribe the interview for easier reference and analysis
• Evaluate the content and identify gaps or areas for follow-up
• Conduct additional research or interviews to supplement the primary interview
• Edit the interview footage for clarity, pacing, and narrative impact
  • Select the most relevant and engaging soundbites
  • Combine interview footage with B-roll and other visual elements
• Obtain final approval and permissions from the interview subject
• Archive and backup interview materials for future use or reference

Ethical Considerations

• Obtain informed consent from interview subjects
  • Clearly explain the purpose, format, and intended use of the interview
• Respect the subject's privacy and confidentiality
  • Protect sensitive information and honor any agreements made
• Avoid exploitation or manipulation of vulnerable subjects
• Strive for accuracy and fairness in representing the subject's perspectives
  • Avoid selective editing that distorts the subject's intended meaning
• Be transparent about the filmmaker's role and intentions
  • Disclose any potential biases or conflicts of interest
• Give subjects the opportunity to review and approve their representation
• Consider the potential impact of the interview on the subject's life and community
• Adhere to professional standards of ethics and responsibility in documentary filmmaking

Practical Tips and Tricks

• Arrive early to the interview location to set up and test equipment
• Bring spare batteries, memory cards, and backup equipment
• Use an external microphone for optimal audio quality
  • Place the microphone close to the subject for clear sound
• Employ a variety of shot sizes and angles for visual interest
  • Use a mix of wide shots, medium shots, and close-ups
• Encourage the subject to speak in complete sentences and repeat key points
• Take notes during the interview to capture important details and observations
• Be prepared to adapt your approach based on the subject's personality and communication style
• Use non-verbal cues (nodding, leaning in) to encourage the subject to continue speaking
• Allow for moments of silence or reflection during the interview
  • Resist the urge to fill every pause with a new question
• Review and reflect on each interview to identify areas for improvement and growth as an interviewer