On-camera interviews are a cornerstone of video journalism. They require careful preparation, technical know-how, and strong interpersonal skills to capture compelling content. From research and question formulation to camera setup and subject management, each element plays a crucial role.
Mastering these techniques enables journalists to conduct professional, engaging interviews. By understanding lighting, framing, and audio essentials, along with effective communication strategies, interviewers can create high-quality video content that informs and captivates viewers.
Preparation for on-camera interviews
Crucial foundation for successful video journalism interviews ensures smooth execution and high-quality content
Encompasses thorough research, strategic question formulation, and logistical planning to maximize interview effectiveness
Research and background gathering
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Conduct comprehensive subject research using credible sources (academic journals, reputable news outlets)
Analyze previous interviews or public statements made by the interviewee
Identify key topics and potential areas of controversy related to the subject matter
Create a timeline of relevant events to provide context for the interview
Consult with subject matter experts to gain deeper insights into complex topics
Question formulation strategies
Develop to encourage detailed responses
Craft questions that address the "5 W's and H" (Who, What, When, Where, Why, How)
Structure questions in a logical sequence to build a narrative arc
Prepare to probe deeper into initial responses
Include questions that challenge common assumptions or misconceptions
Avoid that may bias the interviewee's responses
Pre-interview considerations
Establish clear objectives for the interview aligned with the story's focus
Communicate interview logistics (time, location, duration) to the subject in advance
Arrange for necessary permissions or access to filming locations
Prepare and test all technical equipment before the interview day
Brief the interviewee on the general topics to be covered without revealing specific questions
Consider cultural sensitivities or language barriers that may impact the interview
Camera setup and framing
Fundamental aspects of visual storytelling in video journalism shape the viewer's perception and engagement
Encompasses technical and artistic considerations to create visually appealing and professionally executed interviews
Shot composition basics
Apply the rule of thirds to create balanced and visually interesting frames
Utilize appropriate headroom to avoid cutting off the subject's head
Implement lead room to provide space for the subject to "look into"
Experiment with different shot sizes (close-up, medium, wide) for visual variety
Consider the background elements to add context or avoid distractions
Use depth of field techniques to separate the subject from the background
Lighting for interviews
Employ three-point lighting setup (key light, fill light, backlight) for professional results
Adjust lighting intensity and color temperature to match the mood and setting
Utilize natural light sources effectively when filming outdoors or near windows
Avoid harsh shadows on the subject's face by diffusing or bouncing light
Consider the subject's skin tone and clothing when setting up lights
Use practical lights (lamps, overhead lights) to enhance the authenticity of the scene
Audio equipment selection
Choose between lavalier and shotgun microphones based on the interview setting
Use windscreens or deadcats for outdoor interviews to minimize wind noise
Consider wireless microphone systems for increased mobility and flexibility
Select appropriate audio interfaces or mixers for multi-microphone setups
Carry backup batteries and cables for all audio equipment
Test audio levels and quality before beginning the interview
Interviewer techniques
Essential skills for eliciting meaningful responses and creating a comfortable atmosphere for the interviewee
Combines interpersonal abilities with journalistic acumen to produce insightful and engaging content
Building rapport with subjects
Engage in pre-interview small talk to establish a connection
Demonstrate genuine interest in the subject's experiences and opinions
Maintain appropriate to convey attentiveness
Use open to create a welcoming atmosphere
Acknowledge and validate the interviewee's emotions when discussing sensitive topics
Find common ground or shared experiences to build trust
Active listening skills
Focus on the interviewee's responses without
Take mental or written notes of key points for follow-up questions
Use non-verbal cues (nodding, leaning in) to show engagement
Paraphrase or summarize responses to ensure understanding
Allow for moments of silence to give the interviewee time to reflect
Pay attention to changes in tone or body language that may indicate deeper emotions
Follow-up question strategies
Identify inconsistencies or gaps in the interviewee's responses for clarification
Use "why" and "how" questions to delve deeper into initial answers
Ask for specific examples to illustrate general statements
Employ the "funnel technique" moving from broad to specific questions
Use hypothetical scenarios to explore the subject's thought process
Challenge assumptions or contradictions respectfully to elicit more nuanced responses
Subject management
Crucial skills for maintaining control of the interview while ensuring the subject feels comfortable and respected
Involves adapting communication styles and employing various techniques to handle different personality types
Guiding nervous interviewees
Begin with easy, non-threatening questions to build confidence
Offer reassurance and positive reinforcement throughout the interview
Use a calm and steady tone of voice to create a relaxed atmosphere
Provide clear instructions on where to look and how to sit
Allow for breaks or pauses if the subject appears overwhelmed
Remind the interviewee that mistakes can be edited out to alleviate pressure
Handling difficult personalities
Maintain professional composure when faced with confrontational subjects
Redirect overly talkative interviewees back to the relevant topics
Use to control responses from rambling subjects
Employ techniques to defuse emotional or angry interviewees
Prepare alternative questions or approaches for evasive subjects
Set clear boundaries and expectations at the beginning of the interview
Non-verbal communication cues
Observe the subject's body language for signs of discomfort or hesitation
Use mirroring techniques to build rapport and trust
Pay attention to facial expressions that may contradict verbal responses
Maintain appropriate physical distance to respect personal space
Utilize hand gestures to emphasize points or guide the conversation
Adjust your own non-verbal cues to match the tone of the interview
Interview pacing and flow
Critical for maintaining viewer engagement and extracting the most valuable information from the subject
Requires a balance between structure and flexibility to create a natural, conversational feel
Opening and closing techniques
Begin with a warm introduction and brief explanation of the interview purpose
Start with a broad, open-ended question to set the tone and put the subject at ease
Use transitional phrases to move smoothly between topics
Summarize key points near the end of the interview
Ask if the subject has any final thoughts or additional information to share
Conclude with a clear and appreciative closing statement
Maintaining conversational tone
Use natural language and avoid overly formal or technical terms
Incorporate appropriate humor or light-hearted moments when suitable
Allow for brief digressions that add color or context to the main topic
Vary the rhythm of questions between short and long responses
Use verbal and non-verbal encouragement to keep the conversation flowing
Adapt your speaking style to match the interviewee's communication preferences
Time management during interviews
Prioritize key questions to ensure essential topics are covered
Use subtle cues (glancing at notes, shifting posture) to indicate topic changes
Politely interrupt or redirect when responses become overly long or off-topic
Allow flexibility in the question order to follow interesting threads
Keep track of overall interview duration to respect agreed-upon time limits
Plan for buffer time to accommodate unexpected delays or technical issues
Technical considerations
Essential for ensuring high-quality video and audio capture during on-camera interviews
Requires constant monitoring and adjustment to maintain professional standards throughout the interview
Focus and exposure adjustments
Use manual focus for precise control over the subject's sharpness
Employ focus peaking or magnification tools to check critical focus
Adjust aperture to control depth of field and subject separation
Monitor histogram to ensure proper exposure throughout the interview
Use zebra patterns to identify overexposed areas in the frame
Make subtle exposure adjustments to compensate for changing lighting conditions
Monitoring audio levels
Use headphones to continuously monitor audio quality and detect issues
Set appropriate recording levels to avoid clipping or under-recording
Watch for sudden volume changes in the subject's speech
Listen for background noise or interference that may affect audio clarity
Adjust microphone placement if necessary to maintain consistent levels
Use audio meters to visually confirm proper recording levels
Backup equipment essentials
Carry spare batteries for camera, lights, and audio equipment
Bring additional memory cards or recording media
Have a backup camera body or lens available for critical shoots
Pack spare microphones and cables in case of audio equipment failure
Include a portable audio recorder for redundant sound capture
Bring basic tools and cleaning supplies for quick equipment maintenance
Post-interview procedures
Critical steps to ensure legal compliance, quality control, and comprehensive coverage of the story
Involves administrative tasks and creative planning to maximize the value of the interview content
Obtaining release forms
Prepare standard release forms prior to the interview day
Explain the purpose and scope of the release to the interviewee
Ensure all necessary fields are completed and signed
Provide a copy of the signed release to the interviewee
Store release forms securely and organize them for easy retrieval
Consider digital release forms for more efficient processing and storage
Reviewing footage on-site
Perform a quick review of key moments to ensure proper capture
Check for any technical issues (focus problems, audio dropouts) that may require reshoots
Confirm that all planned questions were addressed satisfactorily
Identify any unexpected revelations that may require additional coverage
Make notes on standout quotes or moments for use in editing
Discuss any immediate concerns or follow-up needs with the production team
Planning for b-roll acquisition
Identify relevant locations or activities mentioned in the interview
List specific shots that will visually support the interviewee's statements
Consider the narrative structure and potential transitions when planning b-roll
Coordinate with the subject or location owners for additional filming opportunities
Prepare necessary equipment for different b-roll shooting scenarios (stabilizers, drones)
Create a shot list prioritizing essential b-roll elements
Ethics in on-camera interviews
Fundamental principles guiding responsible and truthful video journalism practices
Balances the pursuit of compelling stories with respect for subjects' rights and journalistic integrity
Fairness and objectivity
Present balanced viewpoints by including diverse perspectives on the topic
Avoid leading questions that may unfairly influence the interviewee's responses
Provide context for controversial statements to ensure fair representation
Disclose any potential conflicts of interest related to the story or subject
Allow subjects to clarify or correct statements before concluding the interview
Represent opposing viewpoints accurately and without bias
Consent and privacy issues
Obtain informed consent from all interview subjects prior to filming
Clearly explain how the interview will be used and distributed
Respect requests for anonymity or confidentiality when warranted
Protect the identities of vulnerable subjects (minors, whistleblowers)
Adhere to location filming permissions and respect private property rights
Be transparent about recording devices and obtain consent for hidden cameras
Editing vs manipulation
Maintain the integrity of the interviewee's statements when editing
Avoid selective editing that misrepresents the subject's intended meaning
Use cutaways and b-roll to enhance understanding, not alter context
Clearly label or disclose any re-enactments or dramatizations
Refrain from digitally altering images or audio in ways that deceive viewers
Preserve the chronological order of events unless clearly indicated otherwise
Adapting to different interview types
Flexibility in approach and technique to accommodate various interview scenarios and environments
Requires quick thinking and adaptability to maintain professional standards across diverse settings
Sit-down vs standing interviews
Adjust camera height and framing for seated or standing subjects
Consider comfort and duration when choosing between sitting and standing
Use appropriate furniture (chairs, stools) that complements the interview style
Adapt lighting setups to account for different subject positions
Modify microphone placement for optimal audio capture in each position
Adjust your own posture and positioning to maintain eye contact and rapport
Indoor vs outdoor settings
Account for ambient noise levels when selecting outdoor locations
Prepare for changing light conditions in outdoor settings (cloud cover, sun position)
Use reflectors or diffusers to control harsh sunlight in outdoor interviews
Consider wind effects on audio and subject comfort in outdoor environments
Choose indoor locations with minimal echo and background noise
Adapt power solutions for equipment when filming in remote outdoor areas
One-on-one vs group interviews
Adjust camera framing to accommodate multiple subjects in group interviews
Employ strategies to manage group dynamics and ensure equal participation
Use multiple microphones or boom operators for clear audio in group settings
Develop techniques to smoothly transition between speakers in group interviews
Maintain eye contact and engagement with all participants in group settings
Adapt question strategies to encourage interaction among group members
Common pitfalls and solutions
Awareness and preparation for potential challenges that may arise during on-camera interviews
Develops problem-solving skills and contingency planning to ensure successful outcomes
Overcoming technical difficulties
Conduct thorough equipment checks before the interview to prevent issues
Develop quick troubleshooting skills for common technical problems
Have backup equipment readily available for immediate replacement
Know when to call for a brief pause to address technical issues
Communicate clearly with the subject about any technical delays or restarts
Practice adapting to equipment limitations (using natural light if artificial lights fail)
Addressing unexpected responses
Remain calm and composed when faced with surprising or controversial statements
Develop skills to respectfully challenge or seek clarification on unexpected claims
Prepare alternative question paths to redirect the interview if necessary
Use active listening to identify opportunities for follow-up on surprising revelations
Maintain a neutral expression to avoid influencing the subject's responses
Know when to pursue an unexpected topic and when to return to the planned questions
Maintaining professional demeanor
Practice emotional control when dealing with sensitive or provocative subjects
Develop techniques to refocus after distractions or interruptions
Maintain composure and politeness even when faced with hostile or uncooperative subjects
Know how to firmly but respectfully redirect subjects who go off-topic
Develop a consistent on-camera presence that projects confidence and authority
Practice self-awareness to avoid displaying personal biases or reactions during the interview
Key Terms to Review (18)
Active listening: Active listening is a communication technique that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the speaker is saying. It emphasizes engagement and feedback, ensuring that the listener not only hears the words but also grasps the underlying emotions and intentions. This technique is crucial for establishing trust and rapport, especially during interviews and sensitive conversations.
Body language: Body language refers to the nonverbal signals that people use to communicate, including facial expressions, gestures, posture, and eye contact. It plays a crucial role in conveying emotions and attitudes during interactions, especially in settings like interviews where visual cues can significantly impact the viewer's perception of the interviewee and the overall message.
Building trust: Building trust refers to the process of establishing a reliable and authentic relationship between the interviewer and the interviewee. This connection is crucial during interviews, as it encourages openness and honesty, allowing for more insightful and meaningful responses. Trust can be fostered through empathetic listening, respectful engagement, and transparent communication, which are essential components of effective interviewing techniques.
Closed-ended questions: Closed-ended questions are inquiries that limit the respondent's answer options to a predetermined set of responses, typically requiring a simple 'yes' or 'no' answer, or a selection from defined choices. This type of questioning is particularly useful in on-camera interviews as it helps to keep the conversation focused and provides clear, concise answers that can be easily analyzed and reported.
Editing for clarity: Editing for clarity refers to the process of refining and organizing video content to enhance its comprehensibility and ensure the audience easily understands the message being conveyed. This involves making choices about which clips to include, adjusting the pacing, and employing techniques like cutting out unnecessary parts or restructuring sequences to emphasize key points. The goal is to create a cohesive narrative that flows logically and keeps viewers engaged without confusion.
Eye contact: Eye contact is the act of looking directly into another person's eyes during communication, serving as a powerful nonverbal cue that can convey confidence, attentiveness, and engagement. In the context of interviews, effective eye contact can enhance the connection between the interviewer and interviewee, making the interaction feel more personal and intimate. It also plays a critical role in remote video interviews, where maintaining eye contact can help simulate a sense of presence and connection despite physical distance.
Fact-checking: Fact-checking is the process of verifying the accuracy of information and claims presented in journalism or media. It ensures that statements made by sources or in reports are supported by credible evidence, which is essential for maintaining transparency, credibility, and trustworthiness in reporting.
Follow-up questions: Follow-up questions are inquiries posed after an initial question to elicit more detail, clarification, or depth from the interviewee. They are crucial for digging deeper into a subject, ensuring that key points are fully explored, and maintaining an engaging dialogue throughout interviews. Effectively utilizing follow-up questions can enhance the quality of both on-camera interviews and remote video interviews by allowing for a richer understanding of the topic at hand.
Interrupting: Interrupting is the act of breaking into a conversation or speech, often to interject a thought or ask a question. In on-camera interviews, it can be a strategic tool to clarify points, guide the discussion, or keep the interviewee focused. However, it must be used carefully to maintain a respectful and engaging atmosphere.
Leading questions: Leading questions are inquiries that suggest or imply a particular answer within the way they are phrased. These questions can guide interviewees towards specific responses, often shaping the narrative in favor of the interviewer’s intent. In the context of on-camera interviews, leading questions can impact the authenticity of responses, the direction of the conversation, and the overall integrity of the information being presented.
Open-ended questions: Open-ended questions are inquiries that allow for expansive, detailed responses rather than simple 'yes' or 'no' answers. They encourage the interviewee to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in their own words, providing richer information and insight. These types of questions are crucial in both preparing for interviews and executing on-camera techniques as they help facilitate deeper discussions and uncover unique perspectives.
Pausing for effect: Pausing for effect is a technique used in interviews where the interviewer intentionally stops speaking to create a moment of silence, allowing the audience to absorb the information or for the interviewee to reflect before responding. This can heighten drama, emphasize a point, or elicit deeper responses from the subject. Strategic pauses can also enhance the overall pacing of the interview, making it more engaging and dynamic.
Pre-interview briefing: A pre-interview briefing is a crucial step taken before conducting an on-camera interview, where the interviewer and interviewee discuss the context, goals, and key topics to be covered during the interview. This process not only helps to establish rapport but also sets clear expectations, ensuring that both parties are prepared for the discussion ahead. It can also help to alleviate nervousness for the interviewee and facilitate a smoother interview process.
Probing questions: Probing questions are a specific type of inquiry used during interviews to elicit more detailed, thoughtful, and informative responses from the interviewee. These questions often go beyond surface-level answers, encouraging deeper exploration of the topic at hand and fostering a more engaging dialogue. Effective probing questions help uncover underlying motivations, feelings, or experiences related to the subject matter.
Researching the subject: Researching the subject involves gathering and analyzing information about a specific topic to prepare for an on-camera interview. This process ensures that the interviewer is knowledgeable and can ask informed questions, leading to a more engaging and insightful conversation. Understanding the subject also helps in establishing credibility and rapport with the interviewee, which is crucial for a successful interview.
Single shot: A single shot is a continuous recording of a subject or scene without any cuts or interruptions, commonly used in on-camera interviews to create an intimate and engaging experience. This technique allows the interviewer and interviewee to maintain a natural flow of conversation, capturing the emotional nuances and reactions in real-time. It can also enhance storytelling by providing a more immersive and authentic connection between the audience and the subjects being filmed.
Transitioning: Transitioning refers to the techniques and methods used to smoothly move from one segment of a video to another, especially in the context of on-camera interviews. This can include visual, audio, and narrative shifts that help maintain the flow of storytelling, ensuring that viewers remain engaged and informed. Effective transitioning is crucial for clarity and pacing, making the content more relatable and enhancing the overall viewer experience.
Two-shot: A two-shot is a type of camera shot that frames two subjects within the same shot, often used to capture interactions between characters or interviewees. This technique creates a visual connection between the two subjects, allowing viewers to see their reactions and body language in relation to one another. It enhances storytelling by emphasizing relationships and dynamics in both narrative films and documentary settings.