In a fantastic video from B&H and Chase from Zacuto, we get some simple tips for shooting interviews, whether you're in a studio or on location:
Topics discussed include assessing the physical space, any ambient and/or lighting considerations, setting up lights and the types of lights you might want to use,’ choosing the right type of mics based on the shooting environment, camera positioning, and other details required to produce professional-looking video interviews.
Beyond the technical details, I think one of the most important aspects of shooting interviews is that you help your subject feel comfortable, which is step number 7. For people who aren't on camera often, having a camera in their face and lights blasting them isn't the most natural setting, and often people tense up when they're going to be interviewed. If you want truly natural reactions, already having your cameras and sound rolling before the interviewee sits down can have a dramatic difference.
Another great way to make the interviewee feel comfortable is to start off with a number of questions that have absolutely nothing to do with what's being discussed. The more time a person has to adjust to the lights and the camera, the more natural your answers will likely be.
For more great videos, be sure to check out the B&H channel.
Source: B&H
