From the course: Video Foundations: Interviews

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Staging an interview

Staging an interview

From the course: Video Foundations: Interviews

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Staging an interview

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Now I want to talk about how we stage our interview. By staging I just mean the physical placement and relationship between the interviewee, the interviewer, and the camera. First, let's start with the person sitting in the chair. In fact, let's start with the chair. The most important thing to look out for when it comes to chairs is that the chairs don't move. A shifting or twisting subject is problematic for lighting and framing, so that means we want to avoid swivel chairs and definitely no swivel chairs on wheels. Beyond chairs, stools are good for more of a minimalist look, and to prevent subjects from slouching. Sofas also work if your interview is in someone's home, and in the case of kids, teenagers, or certain athletes and performers, the floor or grass might also be a natural and appropriate place for interviewees to sit. More important than a chair is the placement of your interview subject in the space. One thing you want to avoid whenever you can is shooting someone right…

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