Top tips for filming remote video interviews
What are remote interviews?
Remote interviews are those that are filmed online rather than in person. The need for remote video interviews has become more prevalent than ever. In this guide, we'll explore key aspects such as camera choice, framing, lighting, audio, and the best online platforms for seamless interviews.
Choose the right camera
The first step in shooting a great remote video interview is selecting the right camera. Start by engaging with your contributors to understand their equipment. Many people today have high-quality cameras right in their pockets in the form of smartphones, and these can be better than the videos on their computers - people tend to change their computers less frequently and older models may struggle with video processing.
Stabilisation is another crucial factor, especially when dealing with handheld devices. Encourage contributors to use tripods or stabilisers to avoid shaky footage. A steady image not only enhances the overall video quality but also reflects professionalism and attention to detail.
Mastering Framing
Framing plays a pivotal role in creating visually appealing and engaging interviews. Ensure that your contributors are positioned well within the frame, and since they’re talking directly to camera, encourage them to sit centrally in the frame.
Pay attention to the background. A cluttered or distracting backdrop can take the focus away from your interviewee. When it comes to backgrounds, authenticity is key. Natural settings or workspaces can convey a sense of genuineness, while fake backgrounds may detract from the overall authenticity of the interview.
Perfecting Lighting
Proper lighting is a game-changer in video production. Natural light is often the best choice, so encourage contributors to position themselves facing a window. If that's not possible, experiment with various artificial lighting setups to achieve a well-lit and balanced image.
Avoid harsh shadows on the face, as they can be distracting. Soft, diffused lighting is ideal for creating a flattering and professional look. Consider investing in affordable LED ring lights or softboxes to achieve a consistent and appealing lighting setup.
Ensuring Crystal-Clear Audio
Clear and crisp audio is just as important as high-quality video. If possible, suggest the use of external microphones to minimize background noise and ensure that the contributor's voice is the primary focus. Select a quiet environment for the interview and ask contributors to close windows and doors to avoid external disturbances. A private room, with nobody coming in and out is idea. The goal is to create an audio environment that allows for clear communication without any distracting echoes or background noises.
Choosing the Right Online Platform
Several online platforms offer video conferencing and recording capabilities, each with its strengths and weaknesses. And while some may look great during the call, the quality of the recording may be less good. While the best platform depends on your specific needs and preferences, always consider where and how it’s recording. Many platforms, such as Zoom, will adjust the recording resoution and quality according to the internet speed of the contributor, while others, such as Riverside, record the footage on the local computer and upload it at the best possible resolution following the interview.
Zoom: Widely used and user-friendly, Zoom offers a free plan with limitations on meeting duration. The paid plans provide additional features like longer meeting times and more participants.
Microsoft Teams: Ideal for businesses integrated with Microsoft 365, Teams offers seamless collaboration and video conferencing. Its free version is feature-rich, but paid plans unlock advanced capabilities.
Riverside.fm: Specifically designed for high-quality remote recordings, Riverside.fm is an excellent choice for podcasters and content creators. It provides separate audio and video files for contributors, ensuring optimal quality.
Google Meet: Integrated with Google Workspace, Meet is suitable for those already using Google's ecosystem. It offers a free plan with basic features and paid plans for extended functionality.
Resources for Further Learning
Mastering the art of shooting great video interviews remotely requires as much attention to detail as shooting one in real life. From selecting the right camera to choosing the best online platform, incorporating these key practices will help you create compelling and professional video content. Remember, the goal is to seamlessly blend technology with storytelling, bringing authentic and engaging interviews to your audience.
For those looking to delve deeper into the world of documentary filmmaking and remote video production, check out Chocolate Films documentary workshops.
