Journalism How-To: Interviewing

Summary

In this instructional video, Beth Cunningham from the WPHS News Team guides viewers through the essentials of conducting successful interviews in broadcast journalism. She covers key steps, including preparing well-crafted, open-ended questions, selecting the right equipment like tripods and lavalier microphones, and choosing relevant filming locations. Beth emphasizes technical tips such as following the rule of thirds and ensuring clear audio, while also highlighting the importance of making interview subjects comfortable. The video provides practical advice from start to finish, ensuring students and aspiring journalists can confidently capture engaging and professional interview footage.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always prepare a list of clear, open-ended questions before going out to film interviews.
• 🎤 Make sure your questions encourage the subject to elaborate, providing ample material for editing.
• 📸 Use a tripod when filming interviews to ensure the shot remains steady.
• 🎧 A lapel microphone is essential for clear audio in interviews; ensure the wire is hidden and securely attached.
• 🌍 Choose a relevant location for interviews that reflects the topic and ensures good audio quality.
• 📝 Start every interview by asking the subject for their name and spelling it correctly for future graphics.
• 🎥 Follow the 'rule of thirds' in your shot composition, placing the subject in one of the outer thirds of the frame.
• 💬 Make sure your subject feels comfortable during the interview and encourage them to talk naturally, avoiding direct focus on the camera.
• 🔊 Clear and loud audio is the most important element in interview footage—everything else is secondary.
• ✂️ The editing process will vary depending on your software, but audio quality should always remain a priority.

Q & A

What is the first step in preparing for an interview in broadcast journalism?

The first step is to prepare a list of clear, well-written questions. These questions should be open-ended and designed to encourage the subject to elaborate, ensuring you have enough footage during the editing process.

Why is it important to use open-ended questions during an interview?

Open-ended questions are important because they allow the subject to provide detailed answers, offering more material for the editing process and creating a richer, more engaging story.

What type of microphone is preferred when filming interviews, and how should it be positioned?

A lavalier microphone is preferred because it is discreet and hands-free. The cord should be run up through the shirt to hide it, and the mic should be clipped to the subject's collar to ensure clear audio.

What should you consider when choosing a location for an interview?

When choosing a location, ensure that it has good audio quality and is relevant to the interview topic. For instance, a football player should be interviewed on the field rather than in a classroom.

What is the first question you should ask your subject during an interview?

The first question should always be 'What is your name, and how do you spell it?' This is important for later title graphics and ensures the subject's name is correctly identified.

Why is it important to follow the rule of thirds in framing the subject during an interview?

Following the rule of thirds helps create a visually appealing shot. The subject should be placed in one of the outer sections of the frame, which keeps the composition balanced and professional.

How can you help your subject feel comfortable during the interview?

To help your subject feel comfortable, ease their fears and encourage them to speak naturally. Let them know it's okay to mess up and suggest that they converse with you rather than looking directly at the camera.

What is the primary focus when editing an interview video?

The primary focus when editing an interview is clear, loud audio. If the viewer cannot hear what the subject is saying, the rest of the video becomes irrelevant, no matter how good the visuals are.

How does the script suggest handling subjects who are nervous or might make mistakes during the interview?

The script suggests reassuring nervous subjects by encouraging them to converse naturally with you instead of focusing on the camera. If they make a mistake, simply tell them to continue and not worry about it.

Why is preparing questions and equipment important before going on location?

Preparing questions and equipment beforehand ensures that the interview runs smoothly. It helps avoid distractions during the shoot and guarantees that both the content (questions) and technical aspects (equipment) are ready.