5.1 Interview preparation
10 min read•august 21, 2024
Preparing for video interviews is crucial in journalism. It involves thorough research, crafting insightful questions, and identifying key topics. This groundwork ensures compelling narratives and resonates with viewers, enhancing the overall quality of storytelling.
Technical preparation is equally important. It includes equipment checks, camera setup, and audio considerations. By addressing these aspects in advance, journalists can focus on content and building rapport during the interview, minimizing the risk of technical disruptions.
Research and planning
- Lays the foundation for successful video interviews in journalism by ensuring thorough preparation and understanding of the subject matter
- Enables journalists to craft compelling narratives and ask insightful questions that resonate with viewers
- Enhances the overall quality and depth of the interview, leading to more impactful storytelling
Background information gathering
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- Conduct comprehensive research on the interviewee's background, career, and relevant achievements
- Analyze recent news articles, press releases, and social media posts related to the subject
- Review previous interviews or public statements to identify potential talking points
- Consult expert sources or academic papers for in-depth understanding of complex topics
- Create a timeline of key events or milestones in the interviewee's life or career
Developing interview questions
- Craft that encourage detailed responses
- Prepare follow-up questions to probe deeper into specific topics
- Organize questions in a logical sequence to maintain flow and coherence
- Include a mix of factual, opinion-based, and hypothetical questions
- Tailor questions to the interviewee's expertise and experiences
- Anticipate potential responses and prepare additional questions accordingly
Identifying key topics
- Determine the main themes or issues to be addressed in the interview
- Prioritize topics based on their relevance to current events or public interest
- Identify unique angles or perspectives that set your interview apart
- Consider the target audience's interests and information needs
- Develop a flexible outline to guide the interview while allowing for spontaneity
Technical preparation
- Ensures smooth execution of video interviews by addressing equipment and setup requirements
- Minimizes the risk of technical issues that could disrupt the flow of the interview or compromise video quality
- Allows journalists to focus on content and rapport-building during the interview rather than troubleshooting
Equipment checklist
- Verify camera functionality, including battery life and storage capacity
- Test microphones for clear audio capture and minimal interference
- Ensure proper lighting equipment is available (softboxes, reflectors)
- Pack essential accessories (, extra batteries, memory cards)
- Include backup equipment for critical components (secondary camera, spare microphone)
Camera setup considerations
- Choose appropriate lens based on interview setting and desired framing
- Adjust white balance to ensure accurate color representation
- Set proper exposure and aperture for optimal image quality
- Configure frame rate and resolution according to project requirements
- Test autofocus or manual focus capabilities for consistent sharpness
Audio recording essentials
- Select suitable microphone type (lavalier, shotgun, handheld) based on interview format
- Test audio levels and adjust gain to prevent distortion or low volume
- Use windscreens or pop filters to minimize unwanted noise
- Monitor audio through headphones during recording
- Consider recording backup audio on a separate device for redundancy
Location scouting
- Plays a crucial role in creating visually appealing and professional-looking video interviews
- Impacts the overall atmosphere and context of the interview, influencing viewer perception
- Allows journalists to anticipate and address potential challenges or distractions in advance
Indoor vs outdoor locations
- Assess noise levels and potential for interruptions in both settings
- Consider weather conditions and their impact on outdoor interviews
- Evaluate available space for equipment setup and crew movement
- Analyze natural light availability and consistency throughout the day
- Determine accessibility and convenience for both the interviewee and production team
Lighting considerations
- Identify natural light sources and their direction throughout the day
- Assess the need for additional artificial lighting to enhance or balance existing light
- Consider color temperature of available light and adjust accordingly
- Plan for potential changes in lighting conditions during longer interviews
- Evaluate shadows and contrast to ensure flattering illumination of the subject
Background selection
- Choose backgrounds that complement the interview topic or subject's profession
- Avoid cluttered or distracting elements that may draw attention away from the interviewee
- Consider depth and dimension to create visual interest
- Ensure sufficient contrast between the subject and the background
- Anticipate potential issues with reflective surfaces or patterns that may cause visual artifacts
Subject communication
- Establishes a foundation of trust and cooperation between the journalist and interviewee
- Helps create a comfortable environment that encourages open and honest responses
- Ensures clear expectations and smooth execution of the interview process
Pre-interview briefing
- Provide an overview of the interview topic and key areas of discussion
- Explain the intended use and distribution of the interview footage
- Discuss any sensitive topics or areas the interviewee may be uncomfortable addressing
- Clarify the expected duration of the interview and any time constraints
- Address any concerns or questions the interviewee may have about the process
Establishing rapport
- Begin with casual conversation to help the interviewee feel at ease
- Demonstrate and genuine interest in the subject's responses
- Use appropriate body language and facial expressions to convey openness
- Find common ground or shared experiences to build a connection
- Maintain a professional yet friendly demeanor throughout the interaction
Explaining the process
- Outline the general structure and flow of the interview
- Describe the technical setup, including camera placement and microphone usage
- Inform the interviewee about any planned b-roll or cutaway shots
- Discuss any specific requirements (looking at the interviewer vs. camera)
- Provide guidance on what to do if they need a break or want to rephrase an answer
Interview structure
- Provides a framework for organizing and conducting effective video interviews
- Ensures comprehensive coverage of key topics while maintaining viewer engagement
- Allows for a natural progression of conversation and depth of discussion
Opening questions
- Begin with straightforward, easy-to-answer questions to build confidence
- Establish context by asking about the interviewee's background or current role
- Use open-ended questions to encourage detailed responses
- Incorporate a "warm-up" question related to a recent event or achievement
- Transition smoothly into the main topic of the interview
Main body of interview
- Follow a logical sequence of questions that builds upon previous responses
- Use transitional phrases to move between different topics or themes
- Incorporate follow-up questions to delve deeper into interesting points
- Balance prepared questions with spontaneous inquiries based on the conversation
- Allow for moments of silence to encourage further elaboration from the interviewee
Closing remarks
- Summarize key points or insights gained during the interview
- Ask the interviewee for any final thoughts or messages they'd like to share
- Inquire about future plans or upcoming projects relevant to the discussion
- Express gratitude for the interviewee's time and insights
- End on a positive note that leaves the door open for future interactions
Visual considerations
- Enhances the visual storytelling aspect of video interviews for journalism
- Impacts viewer engagement and perception of the interview subject
- Allows for creative expression while maintaining professional standards
Framing the subject
- Apply the rule of thirds to create visually balanced compositions
- Ensure appropriate headroom and lead room in the frame
- Consider the subject's eye line and its relationship to the camera
- Adjust framing for different shot sizes (wide, medium, close-up)
- Maintain consistent framing throughout the interview, accounting for subject movement
Camera angles
- Choose angles that flatter the subject and convey the desired mood
- Experiment with slightly offset angles to add visual interest
- Consider the impact of low or high angles on the subject's perceived authority
- Use multiple camera setups for interviews to provide editing options
- Maintain a natural eye level for most standard interview shots
B-roll opportunities
- Identify relevant visual elements that complement the interview content
- Capture establishing shots of the interview location or relevant environments
- Record the subject engaging in activities related to the interview topic
- Shoot close-ups of hands, facial expressions, or meaningful objects
- Plan for transitional shots that can be used to bridge different segments of the interview
Legal and ethical aspects
- Ensures compliance with journalistic standards and legal requirements in video interviews
- Protects both the journalist and the interviewee from potential legal or ethical issues
- Maintains the integrity and credibility of the journalistic process
Consent forms
- Prepare clear and comprehensive consent forms outlining usage rights
- Explain the purpose and scope of the consent form to the interviewee
- Include provisions for different types of media use (broadcast, online, archival)
- Address any restrictions or limitations requested by the interviewee
- Obtain signed consent before beginning the interview recording
Off-the-record requests
- Establish clear guidelines for what constitutes "off-the-record" information
- Discuss and agree upon off-the-record terms before the interview begins
- Respect the interviewee's wishes regarding sensitive or confidential information
- Develop strategies for addressing off-the-record information without violating trust
- Consider the ethical implications of using or not using off-the-record information
Fact-checking responsibilities
- Verify key facts and statements made during the interview
- Cross-reference information with reliable sources and documentation
- Follow up with the interviewee for clarification on ambiguous or conflicting information
- Maintain accurate records of sources used for
- Be prepared to correct or address any inaccuracies discovered post-interview
Post-interview procedures
- Ensures a professional conclusion to the interview process and maintains positive relationships
- Facilitates the organization and preparation of interview footage for editing
- Allows for the collection of additional information or clarification if needed
Thanking the interviewee
- Express sincere gratitude for the interviewee's time and insights
- Provide information on when and where the interview will be published or broadcast
- Offer to share the final edited piece with the interviewee
- Exchange contact information for any necessary follow-ups
- Consider sending a formal thank-you note or email after the interview
Follow-up questions
- Review notes immediately after the interview to identify any gaps in information
- Prepare a list of additional questions or points requiring clarification
- Contact the interviewee promptly for any crucial follow-up information
- Consider scheduling a brief follow-up call or meeting if extensive clarification is needed
- Document all follow-up communications for reference during editing
Organizing interview footage
- Transfer and backup all recorded footage to secure storage
- Create a logical file naming system for easy identification of clips
- Log key moments, quotes, or timestamps for efficient editing
- Transcribe the interview if required for subtitling or content analysis
- Sort b-roll footage and associate it with relevant interview segments
Troubleshooting
- Prepares journalists to handle unexpected challenges during video interviews
- Minimizes disruptions and maintains the quality of the interview content
- Demonstrates professionalism and adaptability in various interview situations
Technical difficulties
- Develop a quick checklist for diagnosing common equipment issues
- Have backup batteries, memory cards, and cables readily available
- Know how to quickly adjust audio levels or camera settings if problems arise
- Prepare alternative recording methods (smartphone) in case of major equipment failure
- Practice resetting and reconfiguring equipment efficiently
Difficult subjects
- Recognize signs of discomfort or reluctance in interviewees
- Employ active listening techniques to build trust and encourage openness
- Use rephrasing or alternative approaches to address sensitive topics
- Maintain composure and professionalism when faced with hostile or uncooperative subjects
- Know when to redirect the conversation or conclude the interview if necessary
Time management
- Develop strategies for keeping the interview on track without appearing rushed
- Prioritize key questions in case time runs short
- Use non-verbal cues to indicate when it's time to move to the next topic
- Be prepared to politely interrupt or redirect overly talkative subjects
- Allow buffer time in scheduling to accommodate unexpected delays or extended responses
Self-evaluation
- Promotes continuous improvement in video interview skills for journalists
- Encourages reflection on personal performance and identification of growth areas
- Facilitates the development of a more polished and effective interviewing style
Reviewing interview performance
- Watch the full interview footage without interruption
- Analyze body language, tone of voice, and overall presence on camera
- Evaluate the effectiveness of questions in eliciting informative responses
- Assess the flow and structure of the interview
- Identify moments of strong connection or missed opportunities with the subject
Identifying areas for improvement
- Create a list of specific skills or techniques to focus on in future interviews
- Analyze any technical issues or equipment handling that could be refined
- Reflect on time management and pacing throughout the interview
- Consider alternative questions or approaches that could have yielded better results
- Develop a personal action plan for addressing identified weaknesses
Peer feedback
- Share interview footage with trusted colleagues for constructive criticism
- Participate in peer review sessions or workshops to gain diverse perspectives
- Seek specific feedback on areas of concern or uncertainty
- Be open to both positive reinforcement and constructive criticism
- Incorporate valuable peer insights into future interview preparation and execution
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.
Audio recorder: An audio recorder is a device used to capture sound, typically for use in media production, interviews, or music. This tool can vary from simple handheld devices to complex studio equipment, enabling journalists to ensure high-quality audio capture during interviews. Its role is crucial in preserving the clarity and fidelity of spoken words, background sounds, and any other audio elements that may enhance storytelling.
Developing a question guide: Developing a question guide is the process of creating a structured list of questions designed to facilitate an effective interview. This guide helps interviewers stay focused on their objectives, ensures they cover important topics, and encourages open-ended dialogue with the interviewee. A well-prepared question guide enhances the quality of the conversation and leads to deeper insights.
Expert interview: An expert interview is a focused conversation with an individual who possesses specialized knowledge or experience in a specific subject area. This type of interview aims to gather in-depth insights, perspectives, and information that can enhance the understanding of a particular topic or issue, contributing to more informed storytelling and reporting.
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.
Field interview: A field interview is an informal, on-location conversation with a subject, conducted to gather information, insights, or opinions related to a specific story or topic. This type of interview typically occurs outside of a controlled studio environment and is often used to capture the real-world context surrounding an issue, making it particularly valuable for storytelling in journalism.
Informed consent: Informed consent is the process by which individuals voluntarily agree to participate in research or media projects after being fully informed about the nature, risks, and benefits of their involvement. This concept is crucial in ensuring that subjects understand their rights and what participation entails, which relates to ethical standards in various aspects of visual journalism.
Interpersonal Communication: Interpersonal communication is the exchange of information, feelings, and meaning between two or more individuals through verbal and non-verbal messages. It involves both speaking and listening, where each participant plays an active role in shaping the conversation. This type of communication is crucial for building relationships and understanding others, making it essential during interviews where establishing rapport and gathering insights are key.
Man-on-the-street: A man-on-the-street is a type of informal interview conducted with everyday people in public spaces to gather their opinions or reactions on various topics. This method often serves to capture spontaneous responses and present a snapshot of public sentiment, making it valuable for storytelling in journalism and media. It allows journalists to include diverse voices and perspectives in their narratives.
Narrative journalism: Narrative journalism is a storytelling approach that blends journalistic reporting with literary techniques to create a compelling and engaging narrative. It focuses on the human experience, providing in-depth insight into subjects while maintaining factual accuracy. By weaving facts with rich details and emotional resonance, narrative journalism aims to captivate readers and provide a deeper understanding of events and characters.
Off-the-record agreements: Off-the-record agreements are understandings between a journalist and a source where the information provided by the source cannot be published or attributed to them. This type of agreement is often used to encourage sources to share sensitive or candid information without fear of repercussion, thereby allowing for more honest dialogue and deeper insights during interviews.
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.
Q&A Format: The Q&A format is a structured way of presenting information in the form of questions and answers, which helps to clarify complex topics and facilitate better understanding. This format is often used in interviews, allowing for a clear dialogue that can uncover deeper insights through targeted questions and concise responses.
Research background: Research background refers to the process of gathering information and context related to a specific topic or subject matter before conducting interviews or investigations. It involves understanding the historical, cultural, and situational elements that shape the narrative, allowing for more informed and meaningful interactions during interviews.
Studio interview: A studio interview is a structured conversation conducted in a controlled environment, typically within a television or radio studio, where the interviewer engages a guest on various topics. This format allows for optimal sound and visual quality, providing an engaging experience for the audience. The setting is designed to minimize distractions and create a professional atmosphere that facilitates in-depth discussions.
Transcription: Transcription is the process of converting spoken language into written text. This technique is crucial for ensuring that interviews, dialogues, and speeches are accurately documented and can be referenced later. It not only helps in capturing the exact words spoken but also plays a vital role in enhancing clarity and accessibility, especially in contexts where precise quotes are essential for storytelling or content optimization.
Tripod: A tripod is a three-legged stand used to stabilize and support cameras, ensuring steady shots and preventing unwanted movement during filming. Its design enhances the use of various camera types by providing a stable platform that allows for precise control over framing, composition, and movement, making it essential for both static and dynamic shots. Additionally, tripods play a vital role in different filming scenarios such as interviews, on-location shoots, and B-roll integration.
Trust-building: Trust-building is the process of establishing and nurturing confidence between an interviewer and their subject, which is crucial for obtaining candid and insightful responses. It involves creating a safe environment where the subject feels respected and valued, making it easier for them to share sensitive or personal information. Effective trust-building enhances the quality of interviews, especially when dealing with vulnerable individuals or sensitive topics.