Guiding Principles When Filming

Guiding Principles When Filming

Overview

Try to get the highest quality video and audio from the interview as possible, it is best to film and record audio separately because most cameras do not have a good way of picking up sound. (More about this in the audio section).

Recording Video

When recording, make sure that the image/subject is in focus with enough light. If you are using a DSLR type camera, there are ways to check exposure on the camera or even have the camera automatically set exposure for you.

If you have any questions, please email us and include information about the type of camera you are using. We can help you set the exposure correctly.

The camera should remain stable throughout the entire shoot. It is much preferred to use a tripod and to avoid handheld filming as much as possible. Camera shake can make or break a video in terms of quality and professional-style. If you do not have a tripod, find a surface to rest the camera on while the interview continues. Make sure the camera is on a flat surface to ensure an even shot.



It is perfectly fine if you keep the camera in the same place for the entire interview, but if you have the means and time to move the camera for a different angle, then it will make the editing process a bit easier as well as make the film more dynamic. If possible, try to take two different angles of the interviewee (one wide shot and one medium shot) so it will be easier to make edits between takes.

During the Interview

Record multiple takes of the same questions and answers to be able to cut between different versions in case there are small pauses or stutters that may interrupt. We recommend recording at least two of the same answer just to be safe that you have enough material to use.

Make sure the interviewee responds with complete sentences and is able to readdress the question in the answer. In the final video, you will not hear the interview questions so it is important to make sure that it is repeated in the answer.

Question "What is the most important thing about your project?
Answer: "The most important thing about my project is...'

Try and get the interviewee’s gaze towards the third quadrant. This will help add depth, ensure the focus of the subject is clear, and creates a nice composition. Additionally, ensure the shot is close to the speaker to minimize background and keep it feeling personal.


Audio

Good and clear audio is equally important as video so here are some options to get the most out of the interviews:
  1. If possible, use a mic attached to your shirt or even a "boom" mic above your head to get the best audio. 
  2. The next best thing is to use a small recorder like a Zoom or other devices similar. If used, these mics should be as close to the mouth as possible without being in the video frame. We can discuss exact placement if relevant.
    Here is a link to some cheaper options:     https://www.amazon.com/Digital-Voice-Recorders-Audio-Video/b?ie=UTF8&node=227758
  3. If none of the other options are available, use your phone and record the audio with the phone as close to the mouth as possible without being in the video frame. We can also discuss the best ways to position the phone depending on which phone is being used.
    Here is a link to an explainer video for this approach:     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tFcUghQ3T/
Be sure to record in a quiet place, like an office or a house, and be aware of any type of echo. Filming outside is also an option, but please be aware of how strong the wind is since mics are very sensitive and it can ruin the audio. (Additionally, be aware of shadows on the face and make sure that the interviewee is not squinting from the sun.)

We look forward to seeing the footage you filmed and will be here for you throughout the entire process!

Animations & Sounds

In editing you can use the following Animations:

You can also use the following sounds:


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