Video content is a powerful tool for storytelling and engagement. In 2023, people are watching, on average, 17 hours of online videos per week.
Whether you’re a business professional or someone just starting to explore the world of video, preparation is key to a successful shoot.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the essential steps to ensure you’re well-prepared when you are being filmed.
1. Define your purpose and audience
Before diving into the filming process, it’s important to clearly define the purpose of your video and who the target audience will be. This will influence the tone and style of the video, and allow things to run more smoothly on the day.
2. Test your tech in advance
When filming remotely, always make sure the device you’re using is set up to allow for a seamless interviewing process. The main things to check are that your camera and microphone are working and you have a reliable internet connection. It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the platform you’ll be using to avoid any technical issues on the day.
3. Choose the right environment
Having a clear and quiet place for your interview will not only eliminate distractions but present a more professional image. Wherever you choose to sit for your interview, make sure that the area is well-lit and free from any clutter.
If you’re shooting outdoors, be mindful of the unexpected such as weather conditions. Ensure that you have a reliable mic setup, especially if it’s a windy day! Clear audio quality is key.
4. Dress the part
Dressing comfortably is key, but it’s important to dress the part according to the purpose of your video.
Try to dress as plainly as possible, avoiding dark colours or complex patterns as these can affect the footage when viewed back. If you’re wearing a microphone, it’s handy to have suitable clothing where it could be attached. If in doubt, bring a few options.
5. Considering the interview filming style
Typically there are two types of interview filming’ “Off-camera” and “Direct-to-camera”.
In an Off-camera set-up where the interviewee will be speaking directly to the interviewer, the camera will be framed on the interviewee only, and the questions will be cut in the final edit to leave only the answers. In this set-up, make sure that you’re answering the question, and that your answer will still make sense without the context of the question.
In a Direct-to-camera set-up, the interviewee should be looking directly down the camera lens. While this approach can be tricky for the interviewee, our advice is to imagine that you are speaking past the camera and directly at the person watching.
6. Decide whether you’d prefer a script or not
There are pros and cons to using a script or memorising what you want to say. A script may help to prevent stumbling over your words, but without one you remain free to improvise and may come across more naturally to the audience. Our advice is to have an ‘idea’ of what you want to say. Try creating an outline of the key points and focus on communicating these rather than trying to fit everything in – the less you write down, the less you’ll have to recite from memory.
7. Take your time
Remember that you aren’t expected to get things perfect on the first take. Mistakes happen and can be edited out in post-production. There are ways to break things down if you’re feeling nervous, such as approaching one answer in sections rather than trying to fit it into one take.
On the day of the shoot, take a moment to relax and be yourself. A genuine and authentic presentation will resonate with your audience. Hubspot’s survey found that 69% of U.S. consumers say that it is more important that a marketing video be authentic and relatable than polished with high-quality video/audio.
If done well, videos are second to none for engaging with your audience. PRPR puts engaging videos within your reach whenever you want them. All you have to do is have an idea of what you want to say, and we will take care of everything else.
Take a look at our video production page or get in touch for more information.
