Getting Prepared & Video Tips

1. Prepare a well lit space with a pleasing background for the interview location. 
   
2. The person you are interviewing should be facing a light source of some type, if possible.  Avoid having the interviewee sit with their back toward a light source such as a bright window, because it will be very difficult to see the person being interviewed.
   
3. Prepare a list of questions ahead of time (see examples below).  Some interviewees might appreciate seeing the list ahead of time so that they can gather their thoughts beforehand.
   
4. Set up a tripod, if available, for steady footage.
   
5. Have the interviewee use a lapel mic or other microphone, if possible.  If you don't have a microphone, position the camera fairly close to the interviewee in order to get the best audio.
   
6. Make sure the interview does not take place in a noisy location such as in front of a fountain or in a busy room.
   
7. Record in landscape orientation.
   
8. Capture extra footage of your interviewee beyond the actual interview.  This can be done before or after the actual interview.  The HeartLegacy team can show some of this extra footage while the interview audio is being played; this creates a more dynamic and interesting video.  Examples of extra footage to capture:
   
1. performing day to day activities such as dining
   
2. participating in an activity
3. interacting with residents and/or staff members
4. visiting with someone
   
5. sitting in various areas and/or moving around the community

Suggested Questions