1. Let PEOPLE tell the story

2.  Get
the facts first.
 Is this a strong video story?
 What do you need to see, hear or feel to
understand the story?
 Identify the sources and actions that will
tell the story.

3.  Ask
open-ended questions.
 Be a good listener.
 Offer non-verbal cues of engagement.
 Respect your source. Help her look as
good as possible.

6.  Let
the location help tell the story

8.  Don’t
center your subject
 Let them talk “across” the background

10.  Don’t
center your subject
 Let them talk “across” the background

11.  Position
the subject just off center.
 Keep the eyes in the upper third.
 Allow appropriate head room.

12. Incorrect:
Line of sight directed out of frame
Incorrect:
Subject too close to frame edge

13. Incorrect:
Too much headroom
Incorrect:
Not enough headroom

14. Correct:
Subject not centered
Eyes in upper third of frame
Line of sight directed across frame
Proper headroom

16.  Even
in a quiet setting, sound is hollow
 Wind, background noise will ruin sound

18.  Interview
saved by $17 microphone

20.  Allows
more creative framing
 Makes the subject more comfortable

22.  Hold
the camera to the side
 Encourage the subject to talk to YOU

23.  Ask
open-ended questions
 Be a good listener
 Offer non-verbal cues of encouragement

24.  Avoid
pre-interview conversation
 Don’t make them repeat themselves

25.  Don’t
make them feel rushed
 Take genuine interest in them
 Help them look their best

26. Let PEOPLE tell the story