12 Less-Obvious Tips for Producers to Conduct Successful Interviews in Video Production

Interviews can be a vital component of any video production. They provide a platform for experts, witnesses, or people with first-hand experiences to share their insights and perspectives on a particular subject. However, conducting an interview is not just about asking questions and recording responses. There's more to it than meets the eye. In this article, I’ll delve into some less obvious and more obscure tips that will help you conduct better interviews and produce more engaging and informative videos. From establishing a relaxed atmosphere to avoiding monotony and guiding the conversation, these tips will make a difference in your interview process and final product.

Interview for international television.

It's important to keep in mind that these tips may not work for everyone being interviewed. For example, below I discuss how it is not always beneficial to provide questions beforehand, yet this may cause stress to a small number of individuals who prefer to have a clear understanding of the questions and how to answer them before filming begins. This level of preparation can result in polished, but sometimes stiff, responses. Yet, from my extensive experience, I have found that minimal preparation can lead to more organic and engaging responses.

1) Relaxed Atmosphere: Let the interviewee know that the interview is just a casual conversation, even if the production relies on their answers. This approach helps the interviewee feel at ease and reduces any pressure they may feel about their role in the success of the production.

2) Best Footage Guaranteed: Assure the interviewee that the final product will be carefully edited to make them look and sound their best. Emphasize that if the footage does not meet the desired standards, it will not be used. This will help the interviewee feel confident and worry-free.

3) Casual Conversation: If the interviewee requests to see the questions before filming begins, a casual response could be "We're just going to have a conversation, but don’t worry as the topic will be around your area of expertise." For many, this approach can make the interviewee feel more relaxed and less formal.

Telling the story of a non-profit organization.

4) Short and Concise Questions: During an interview, video production teams usually aim to capture short, concise sound bites. To achieve this goal, it's best to ask short and to-the-point questions. If the interviewer asks a lengthy question, due to human nature, the response is likely to be lengthy as well.

5) Coaching Consideration: In some cases, the person being interviewed may need guidance, such as speaking in complete sentences or not looking directly at the camera. Correcting them during the interview can sometimes be distracting and cause them to become nervous. It's important to assess whether the interviewee requires coaching or not. If necessary, consider coaching them after the interview, and then redoing segments that could be improved. This decision should be based on the individual's performance and how it affects the overall outcome.

6) Mimic Surroundings: People naturally imitate their surroundings. If the interviewer speaks softly, the response will likely be soft, and if the interviewer exudes happiness and joy, the interviewee will likely respond in a similar manner. Keep in mind the desired tone of the answers when formulating your questions.

7) Lighthearted Atmosphere: As the director of photography, I like to create a lighthearted atmosphere during equipment setup by joking or simply being more casual with both the producer and interviewee. This helps set the mood that the interview is a fun experience, even if the subject matter is serious. Doing so can help everyone relax. If you are the producer, consider communicating your desired behavior to the video production team before the interviewee arrives.

8) Don’t discuss the subject before cameras are rolling: Engaging in small talk before the interview can help create a comfortable atmosphere, but it's important to avoid discussing the subject of the interview. This is because valuable sound bites may be shared before the camera starts rolling that may not be as impactful the second time around.

9) Avoid One-Word Answers: When conducting an interview, try to avoid asking questions that have a simple "yes" or "no" answer. If you do receive this type of response, a useful follow-up question is "Why?" as it prompts further explanation.

10) Simple Questions Lead to Valuable Answers: To get the most valuable information and insights, consider asking questions that may seem simple or even "dumb." These questions can sometimes lead to basic yet crucial answers that can inform the viewer and provide context to the subject at hand.

Employee Testimonial

11) Balancing Interruptions: Interrupting a lengthy or off-topic response can offer several benefits such as saving time for all involved, streamlining the editing process, and allowing for follow-up questions and feedback. However, it's essential to consider the etiquette aspect, as it may be perceived as impolite depending on the individual being interviewed. The decision to interrupt should be made based on the dynamics of the situation and the personality of the person being interviewed.

12) The Power of Eye Contact: Establishing and maintaining eye contact during an interview not only fosters connection with your subject, but also encourages open and honest communication, leading to a more engaging and genuine conversation. Be mindful not to break eye contact too often by taking notes or looking around, as this can be distracting. While it's not necessary to stare directly into their eyes the entire time, giving your full attention is crucial for a successful interview.

As we wrap up, at Creative Images, we prioritize the success of your video production. Our team is always willing to take notes and provide valuable insights to ensure the final product is comprehensive and meets your expectations. Additionally, if needed, we are also willing to step in and ask follow-up questions to ensure the interviewee provides complete information for the post-production process.

We've found that creating a comfortable environment for the interviewee is essential for a successful interview. Keeping the number of people in the room to a minimum can help ease their nerves. If others need to be present, having them out of the interviewee's line of sight can prevent distractions and keep the focus on the interviewer.

Thank you for considering Creative Images for your video production needs.

The Dos and Don'ts of Corporate Video Production

If you're considering producing your own corporate video, we understand that there can be benefits to taking a DIY approach, such as potentially reducing costs. While tackling video production yourself can be challenging, it's still possible to create an effective video that communicates your brand's message to your target audience. To help you navigate the process and achieve your video production goals, we've compiled a list of dos and don'ts to keep in mind, ensuring you make the most of your self-produced video without compromising on quality.

Do: Define Your Goals and Target Audience

Before you start planning your video, it's essential to define your goals and target audience. Understanding who you're creating the video for and what you want to achieve will help you craft a more effective message and reach your desired outcomes.

Don't: Use Jargon or Technical Terms

It's crucial to avoid using jargon or technical terms that your target audience may not understand. Keep your message clear, concise, and easy to follow, so your viewers can understand your message without confusion.

Do: Focus on the Story

Your corporate video should tell a compelling story that resonates with your audience. Use storytelling techniques to convey your brand's message in a way that captivates and engages your viewers.

Don't: Overwhelm with Information

It can be tempting to include as much information as possible in an effort to educate your audience. However, overwhelming your viewers with too much information can lead to confusion and disengagement. It's important to keep in mind that a successful corporate video should deliver a clear and concise message that resonates with your target audience.

To avoid overwhelming your viewers with information, start by defining your key message and sticking to the most important points. Keep your script concise and use visuals to help reinforce your message. Avoid including every single detail about your brand, product, or service in your video. Instead, focus on the key benefits and features that will be most relevant to your target audience.

Do: Use High-Quality Equipment and Production Techniques

Using high-quality equipment and production techniques is crucial to creating a successful corporate video that effectively communicates your brand's message to your target audience. Investing in professional-grade equipment and techniques not only ensures that your video looks and sounds professional, but it also communicates that your company is professional and takes its brand seriously.

Don't: Neglect the Importance of Audio

Audio is just as important as video, if not more so. Our ears are not as forgiving as our eyes, and poor audio quality can quickly turn off your audience and undermine the effectiveness of your video. It's crucial to invest in quality audio equipment and techniques to ensure that your message is delivered clearly and effectively. This includes capturing high-quality sound during filming and using proper mixing and mastering techniques during post-production to ensure that your audio is polished and professional.

By keeping these dos and don'ts in mind, you'll be better equipped to produce a successful video that communicates your brand's message effectively to your target audience. At Creative Images, we take all of these factors into consideration when producing videos for our clients. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you produce a high-quality promotional or corporate video that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

30 Ears Ago: A Cautionary Tale of Audio Recording

Once upon a time, in a world where flannel shirts and acid-washed jeans were in fashion, a friend in this video production business, shared a very important tip about audio recording: “If audio matters, always wear headphones.” I’ve never forgotten it, and always do it.

Toni Wearing Her Headphones

Now, before you dismiss this as ancient history, let me tell you a recent horror story that happened to a fellow video production company. They were recording interviews all day, but at the end of it, they realized that they had forgotten to plug the microphone into the camera. Yup, you heard that right. A whole day's worth of interviews, including the CEO and customers, was completely ruined. Cue the facepalm.

Now, you might think that this is a rare occurrence, but trust me, audio gremlins can strike at any time. Cables can go bad, wireless mics can be forgotten to be turned on, clothing can rub against the lav mic, and air-conditioning can cause hum or wind noise. These are just some of the many audio demons that can haunt your recordings.

Sure, you can watch the level meters, but that won't catch problems like a simple pair of headphones can. Headphones let you hear what's actually being recorded and catch any issues before it's too late. Plus, wearing headphones allows you to make adjustments on the fly, which can save you a ton of time and effort in post-production. Trust me, your future self will thank you!

So, in conclusion, 30 ears ago, I learned a very simple lesson that still holds true today - wear headphones. Not only will it save you from potential embarrassment and costly mistakes, but it'll also make your audio recording experience much more enjoyable. And who knows, with a little imagination, you might even hear the next American Idol winner in the making. Just make sure to wear those headphones! Happy recording! :)

Preparing for a Video Interview: Tips for a Confident and Relaxed Experience

As a video production company, we understand that being interviewed on camera can be a nerve-wracking experience. But with the right preparation and mindset, you can make a strong impression and come across as a confident expert in your field. Here are our tips to help you prepare for a successful video interview.

1. Know your audience: Think about who will be watching the video and what they want to learn from you. This will help you tailor your responses and speak in a way that resonates with them.

2. Consider your answers: Take a few minutes to think about the questions you might be asked and how you want to respond. This will help you feel more confident and in control during the interview.

3. Don’t over-prepare: I know, we just told you to consider your answers, but don’t fall into the trap of over preparing. Over preparing can actually detract from the authenticity and energy of the interview. Our advice is to focus on understanding the key elements you want to convey, but avoid memorizing scripts or overthinking. Instead, aim to be yourself, relax, and let your natural energy shine through.

4. Be conversational: The video interview is meant to be relaxed and conversational, so don't worry about being too formal. Speak as if you were having a conversation with a friend, and let your personality and expertise shine through.

5. Practice good posture and body language: Maintain good eye contact, sit up straight, and use gestures to help you convey your message. Good body language can help you appear more confident and engaged.

6. Speak in complete sentences, and try to put the question into your answer: Since the person asking the questions likely wont be included in the final video, including some of the question helps to effectively convey the message. For example:

   Interviewer: What was your biggest challenge working on this project?

   Response 1 (Incomplete): The tight deadline.

   Response 2 (Complete): My biggest challenge working on this project was the tight deadline.

7. Avoid rambling in your answers. Videos with interviews are typically just a few minutes long, and there may be multiple interviews with different people included in the final production. So, it's important to be concise.

8. Trust the editing process: We will carefully edit the video to ensure that you come across as confident and knowledgeable. So, don't worry if you make a mistake or stumble over your words during the interview, we've got you covered.

   By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared for your relaxed and conversational video interview and able to make a strong impression on your audience. With the support of our team, you can rest assured that your final product will showcase your expertise and personality in the best possible light.

Maximizing Your On-Camera Presence: Tips for Reading from a Teleprompter

Teleprompters have revolutionized the way videos are produced, allowing a person to look directly into the camera lens while reading a script. However, it can be difficult to deliver a natural and confident performance while using one. So, here are some tips to help you make the most of this tool and ensure that your on-camera performance is professional and engaging.

Front view of Teleprompter

What is an On-Camera Teleprompter?

An on-camera teleprompter is a device that displays the script in front of the camera lens, allowing someone to look directly at the camera while reading their lines. This provides a natural looking performance, speaking directly to the viewer, yet reading prepared copy.

Write the Script in Speaking Tone

The key to delivering a confident and natural performance using this tool is to start with a properly-written script. The script should be written as if you were speaking to someone, not writing an essay. This will help ensure that your performance is conversational and engaging. See this post for writing tips.

Teleprompter and Camera

Maybe Only Use Bullet Points

For those with a natural speaking ability, sometimes the teleprompter only needs bullet-points to keep the speaker on track. This can help simplify the process and reduce the need to rely heavily on the prompter.

Relax and Be Natural

It's important to not be transfixed on the lens, afraid of missing a word. To be natural, you should look away from the lens, as if you are thinking of a word or using hand gestures. This can help make the performance feel more authentic and engaging. However, the ability to do this will come down to the script, so be sure to practice reading the script out loud to ensure that it feels natural and comfortable. That brings up our next point:

Practice Reading Out Loud

Practice is crucial when it comes to using a teleprompter. You should practice reading the script out loud to get a feel for the flow and cadence you want in your final performance. This will also help train your brain where to place emphasis and pauses, and can help you identify any problem areas in the script that may need to be rewritten.

Use Emotion

Just because you’re reading doesn't mean that you should throw out emotion. You should still act out the emotion, tone, or attitude that a particular sentence is supposed to contain. This will help ensure that your performance feels true and authentic, and keep the viewer is engaged.

More tips is from a popular YouTube channel.

In conclusion, teleprompters are an essential tool for any video production company, but it takes practice and attention to detail to deliver a confident and natural performance. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your on-camera talent is professional, engaging, and that your videos are a success.

At Creative Images, we understand the importance of delivering a high-quality video production, and our team of professionals is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help bring your vision to life..