Interview Preparation

Most interviews benefit from spontaneity, so it is not a good idea to go over questions in detail. For the same reason avoid ‘dry runs’ or rehearsals with or without the camera, which risk nervous or inexperienced interviewees ‘talking themselves out’ before the real thing begins. But as the purpose of any interview is to extract something of value for the audience, the subject should be given a general idea of the ground to be covered and the shape the interview is intended to take.

Submitting questions

Do not readily agree to submit questions in advance unless it is the only way of securing an important or much sought-after interview, and–apart from rare and unusual circumstances–do not concede the right of veto over part or all of the finished product.

Judge on its merits a condition that an interviewee will agree to an appearance on the strict understanding that a particular subject will not be covered or a particular question not asked. It depends on how badly you want the interview. Quite often, as a well-conducted interview proceeds, it becomes possible to raise the contentious issue after all. On other occasions, if it would appear ridiculous not to ask the burning question of the hour, a refusal to answer–and the manner of that refusal–may be worthwhile in its own right. But once you have accepted conditions, stick to your word. Anything else would be unethical.

Tone

Much of the criticism made of interviewers is to do with their ‘tone’. Accept that you will rarely be judged as having got it exactly right. Viewers’ opinions are inevitably coloured by their own prejudices and perceptions, and it is not unusual for one half of the audience to believe, quite genuinely, that you have been too hard and aggressive and the other half–just as genuinely–that you have been too soft and tentative.

Faced with this conundrum every day, try to forget how the audience might react and seek to adopt a tone which suits the occasion. Sometimes it is necessary to pursue an interviewee who appears to be trying to avoid giving answers to legitimate questions. Regrettably that has become a tactic commonly employed by politicians and others. But there are basic courtesies to be observed, and remember that interviewees have the ultimate sanction: they can always walk away if they do not like the way they are being treated.

Set-piece interviews (2)

The set-piece is usually shot in medium close-up, concentrating on the interviewee (1). Rather than stop the camera, ensure any running changes to composition are carried out during your questions (2) which can then be edited out (3).