Tips for Shooting a Better Talking Head Interview

Despite how tense interviews can be, shooting a talking head is much more simple. You don’t have to worry about people moving around a set or being far away from the camera or being in bad lighting.

The best part of shooting a talking head is that most of it is done in post-production.

While the worst part is that it doesn’t always need much work to be rendered better in post-production so you have to make sure to treat it as such while you’re shooting.

Read on to learn the tips on shooting a talking head interview.

Right Camera Equipment

If you’re planning to shoot an interview, make sure you have the right camera equipment. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a good microphone will give you the best results.

Right Location

In order to have a video shoot and a better talking head interview, it is important to choose the right location. It should be a place with good lighting and a simple background. Avoid places with a lot of distractions, like busy streets or parks.

It is also important to ensure the interviewee is comfortable and can be seen clearly on camera. If you are looking for a good location, you can check some studio space here.

Framing

When shooting a talking head interview, it is important to frame the shot correctly. The ideal framing for a talking head shot is with the subject’s head and shoulders in the center of the frame, and the camera slightly above the eye line.

The background should be free of distractions, and the lighting should be flattering to the subject. If possible, use a telephoto lens to compress the shot and make the subject’s head appear larger in relation to the background.

The Right Audio Equipment

A good microphone is a key to getting clear sound, so invest in a quality option. This will ensure that your subject can be heard clearly and reduce any background noise.

Lighting for a Great Talking Head Interview

Proper lighting is one of the most important aspects of any interview and can make a big difference in the overall quality of your footage.

Be sure to position your subject so that they are evenly lit and avoid any harsh shadows. Many videographers also recommend using a softbox or diffuser to create more flattering lighting for your subject.

Right Time of Day

The right time of day can make a big difference in the quality of your footage. If possible, shoot the hour before sunset or sunrise. The light during this time is softer and more flattering, which will help your subject look their best.

Ask Open-Ended Questions

It’s important to ask your subject open-ended questions when shooting a talking head interview. This will encourage them to give more detailed answers that will be more interesting to watch.

You should also try to get them to elaborate on their answers by follow-up questions.

Be Patient

Sometimes it takes a little time for the person you are interviewing to warm up and give good answers. However, they will eventually give you the material you are looking for if you are patient.

A Guide to an Engaging Talking Head Interview

If you’re looking to improve your talking head interviews, here are a few tips: pay attention to your body language, make sure you’re well lit, and ensure the sound is good. With a little practice, you’ll be nailing those interviews in no time!

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