Shooting Video

Using a video camera to record professional looking video can be challenging. There are many factors that determine the final quality of the footage including: the camera used, lighting of the scene, shot selection, the environment, types of microphones used, and placement of the microphones.

Check out our helpful hints to make shooting simpler.

Planning

Conducting an On-Camera Interview:

As an interviewer, ultimately, you want the subject to look and feel comfortable all while giving you clear answers that will be easy to edit. Use the following techniques to help achieve this goal.

Controlling the image:

Take the time to film your subject in the most flattering way. Pay attention to the light in the environment and use the framing techniques learned in class.

Watch for reflections on glasses and shadows from you or your camera.

Checking Audio:

Watch the audio levels throughout the interview, as the subject may get more confident and a little louder.

Be careful not to over lap the subject’s response with your own comments. Nod along but avoid verbal agreement like, “Uh huh”

Pacing and controlling the interview:

Ease the subject into the interview with simple questions. Never start the interview with hard questions. For example, start with “What is your role in this organization”? or "Why are you taking this class”?

Allow the subject to answer in complete sentences. Perhaps prompt them to repeat part of your question.

Keep the questions open-ended. Instead of saying, " Were you satisfied by the results? ", say " Tell me a little about how you felt when the students were on-line...?"

Make sure you listen to the response. No one likes to repeat what he or she has just said. You'll lose face as an interviewer if it appears that you're just rattling off the questions.

Preparing for the Edit:

Film cutaways of the subject and some related footage. You may need these cutaways to create interest or smooth out awkward edits.