Time is not an illusion
Nope. Time is real when we’re shooting a quality video production, especially when it’s an event. If it’s an interview, interviewees need to be prepped and ready to go, locations need to be readied, etc. So we need to build in time before or during the production day for everything. When we’re shooting interviewees, we need to leave extra time for each subject. People need to comb their hair, put on makeup, do retakes, take a break, drink water, etc. So a lot more time is required for each interview than you might expect. Giving each interview plenty of time also prevents interviewees from getting anxious.
How to save time
A way to save time is to rehearse the talent before the interview. Before the interview or presentation, let them know which questions you’ll be asking or what you want them to discuss. Allow time for a dry run. You should record their first try, just in case they’re a ‘one take Charlie’ who gets it right on the first take. But chances are that you and the subject will want the extra time to rehearse or otherwise prepare.
Preparation time
If you’re moving around an office or hotel, filming people in different locations, each set-up is different. Lighting has to be set, background and foreground need to look good, talent and equipment need to be prepped, etc. We often give interviews a different look by using different settings within a location, but each spot takes time to set up.
It’s also advisable to know which settings within a location you’ll be using. Last minute scrambling is never good. So you or you and our producer need to identify the best settings where we’ll be filming the subjects.
Save time for b-roll
Don’t forget the b-roll for the interviews. No matter how dynamic the interviewee is, b-roll is always a plus to add a dynamic touch to the final edit. Cutaways to related footage in between seeing the interviewee or speaker will definitely add interest to the viewer experience.
Save time for testimonials
Looking for a candid testimonial from a participant at one of your trade shows or conferences? Not a problem. However, the audio may not be good unless we prepare a place for these testimonials or are able to put a mic on them. Trade shows are loud and unless we mic the subject, we’ll be hearing lots of background noise if we have to obtain the audio out of the air so to speak.
Watch our interview demo:
Have questions about presentation videography?
Contact us and our Chicago video production crew can clarify any questions you may have. Or click below to discuss a potential video production:
