Unit 3, Lesson 6

Conducting an Interview Video Shoot

AOITDigital Video and Digital Media

Setup begins with the interview location

Location preparation:• Arrive early enough for setup• Pick a quiet spot with good lighting• Make sure there is room for the crew

and all of the equipment• Use an appropriate background

Look around our class. If we used this as an interview location, where would the best interview spot be? Why?

Positioning the interview subject is key

Standard Interview Setup

Why isn’t it a good idea to have the interview subject look right into the camera lens?

Lighting helps bring out the best image

Standard Interview Setup with Three-Point Lighting

Audio setup depends on the microphone

Which microphone do you think is the best choice for an interview? Why?• Built-in camera mic• Handheld mic• Lavalier• Boom mic• Radio mic

Which microphone will we use?

Framing is what you see through the viewfinder

Basic Interview Framing and Composition

How would you adjust this composition to make it more appealing?

Movement adds variety to a shot

Interview Zoom: “Medium”

A close-up can also be an effective composition

Interview Zoom: “Tight” or “Close-up”

When do you think it is a good idea to use a close-up shot? When wouldn’t it be a good idea?

A few last checks assure a good take

• All cell phones are off• All landline telephones are off• All intercoms and hand-held radios are off• The camera is set up properly and ready to roll• The microphone is well-placed• Your interviewer and subject know what to do

What else would you check for?

Finally: Don’t forget to label your tapes!

Your tape label should include:

• Date• Subject• Group name• Interview project

tape #

Are you ready for the interview shoot?