How to Shoot Cinematic Interviews will teach you how to create beautiful, cinematic interviews using nothing more than a DSLR or mirrorless camera and a few simple accessories.
You’ll learn how to set up your shots, work with your subjects, and light your scenes for maximum impact. Whether you’re a professional filmmaker or a hobbyist looking to take your interviews to the next level, this book will show you everything you need to know.
Scout The Location
When scouting for locations to shoot cinematic interviews, it’s important to find an area that will provide a variety of backdrops and settings. One great option is to seek out a location with many natural sceneries, like a park or forest. This will give your interview subjects plenty of interesting visuals to look at and help create a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.
Another key factor to consider when scouting for interview locations is lighting. You’ll want to find an area that has plenty of natural light, as this will help to create a softer and more flattering look on your subjects. Avoid shooting in direct sunlight whenever possible, as this can often result in harsh shadows and squinting subjects.
Finally, take into account the sound quality of your potential location. Make sure to test out the area for any unwanted ambient noise, like traffic or construction sounds. If possible, try to find a location that offers some form of background music or white noise, as this can help to drown out any unwanted sounds and create a more relaxing atmosphere for your interviews.
When choosing an appropriate location for your cinematic interview, be sure to find one with depth and lighting. A window providing natural light is ideal, but if that’s not possible, then using a camera on a timer will have the same effect.
To avoid the worst backgrounds, stay away from dark ones or cluttered scenes where there is too much going on. Any distractions will also ruin your audio, so if you can’t find a quiet location, consider relocating.
When shooting cinematic interviews, it’s important to find a position that will provide the best possible view for the audience. This usually means finding a spot that is high up and provides a wide-angle shot. If possible, avoid having any objects in the way of the interviewee, as this can obstruct the viewers’ view.
It’s also important to make sure that the lighting is good, as this can make a big difference in how the interview comes across on film. By considering these factors, you can ensure that your cinematic interviews are shot in a way that will allow viewers to get the most out of them.
Cameras Placement
When setting up cameras for a cinematic interview, it’s important to take your time. You’ll want the camera at eye level so that viewers can see what you’re seeing while using low angles will make someone appear more confident and powerful in their leadership abilities.
Camera sliders are a great way to get more movement in your interviews and provide an even smoother look. Rent them for quick, low-cost cinematic shots that will make any video pop with authority.
Setting up your cameras for a cinematic interview is key to achieving that polished look. You’ll want to find a visually interesting location with depth or a window that provides natural light. As for the angle of your shots, try to use an eye-level shot or a slight low-angle to make your subject look more confident and powerful.
Remember to shoot in 24 fps for a cinematic effect, and use a slider for added movement. Sliders add visual interest and variety to your shots, and using a slow, automatic set-up can take your production value up a notch. To get all the gear you need for smooth, cinematic interviews at an affordable price, check out our rental options.
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
- 26.2 Megapixel Full-frame CMOS Sensor.
- Optical Viewfinder with a 45-point All Cross-type AF System.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Phase-detection & Full HD 60p.
- DIGIC 7 Image Processor, ISO 100-40000.
- Vary-angle Touch Screen, 3.0-inch LCD.
Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM Lens
- Compact, high-quality Lens with broad zoom range for the EOS R system
- Bright, constant f/4.0 zoom Lens
- First L-Series Lens with Nano USM
- Control ring for direct setting changes
- Optical image stabilization at up to 5 Stops* of shake Correction
Considering Your Second Camera
When shooting a cinematic interview, it’s important to use a second camera to capture different shots of the subject. This can help to make the interview more interesting to watch and also make it easier to edit. Using cameras from the same brand will make it easier to match the colors between the shots.
If you’re looking to up your videography game, using a second camera to shoot cinematic interviews is the way to do it. Using two cameras allows you to get different angles on your subject, adding more visual interest to your final product. This technique is especially useful for shots that require a lot of movement, like pans and tilts.
To set up your two-camera shoot, simply place one camera on a tripod and the other on a handheld gimbal. Start by shooting with the tripod-mounted camera, then switch to the gimbal-mounted camera for your second angle. Be sure to keep your audio in sync by recording it separately or using wireless lav mics.
With a little practice, you’ll be able to shoot Professional-quality interviews that will wow your viewers. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try!
Canon EOS R Mirrorless Full Frame Camera
- FULL-FRAME CMOS SENSOR & DIGIC 8 30.3 MP IMAGE PROCESSOR: Ensures crisp photos and high-resolution videos; enables optimum performance, image processing, and video functionality
- DUAL PIXEL CMOS AF: Features an impressive 5,655 manually selectable AF points** and delivers sharp focus in up to 0.05*** seconds so you can capture, focus, and maintain action shots with ease
- RF MOUNT COMPATIBLE: The EOS R camera is designed to work effortlessly with RF lenses; it maintains compatibility with EF and EF-S lenses through the use of one of three optional mount adapters*
- HIGH-SPEED CONTINUOUS SHOOTING: With speeds of up to 12fps, this camera can capture the most dynamic movements of athletes, animals, or other moving subjects
- BUILT-IN EVF: The EOS R includes an electronic viewfinder with 3.69 Million Dots, Vari-angle Touchscreen LCD and Dot-matrix LCD Panel to take your photographs to the next level
Canon EF 24–105mm f/4L IS II USM Lens
- All-new optical design with significant improvements in peripheral brightness.
- High-performance standard zoom lens with constant f/4L aperture and a broad angle of view covering from wide angle to mid-telephoto.
- Air Sphere Coating (ASC) helps to significantly reduce flare and ghosting. Diagonal Angle of View:84°00' - 23° 20'
- Image Stabilizer performance at up to 4 stops* of shake correction helps capture sharp images. Lens Construction: 17 elements in 12 groups
- Circular Aperture (10 blades) helps deliver beautiful, soft backgrounds.
Frame Your Video Like A Professional
When framing your shots for an interview, it’s important to think like a filmmaker. This means considering the shot composition and how to make the most of your footage.
One way to create cinematic interviews is to use a wide shot to capture you and your interviewee. This will help to establish the scene and create a sense of scale. You can then use a medium shot to get a closer view of your subject and a close-up shot to capture their expressions.
It’s also important to pay attention to the background of your shots. A busy or cluttered background can be distracting, so try to keep it simple. If you’re shooting outdoors, try to find a location with a beautiful or interesting background that will complement your footage.
By thinking like a filmmaker, you can create beautiful and cinematic interviews that will engage your viewers. So take your time to frame each shot carefully, and you’ll be sure to capture amazing footage that you’ll be proud of.
Key Light
When it comes to lighting your cinematic interview, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first is to make sure you have enough light. You’ll want to avoid harsh shadows and make sure your subject is well lit. You can do this by using a softbox or another diffused light source.
Another thing to keep in mind is the color of your light. You’ll want to avoid using blue or green tinted light, as this can make your subject look sickly. Instead, opt for a warmer light source. This will give your subject a more natural and healthy appearance.
Finally, you’ll want to pay attention to the direction of your light. You’ll want to avoid having your light source come from behind your subject, as this can create unflattering shadows. Instead, try to position your light so it’s coming from the side or above. This will help to create a more flattering look.
There are a few things to consider when lighting your cinematic interview. You want to make sure that the light is even on the subject’s face and that there is no glare from the lights on the camera lens. You’ll also want to avoid shadows by placing the light sources on either side of the camera.
Classic three-point lighting
If you’re shooting outdoors, you’ll want to position the sun behind the camera so that it illuminates the subject’s face. If you’re shooting indoors, you can use artificial lighting to create the same effect. Just ensure that the light sources are at least four feet away from the subject to avoid shadows.
You’ll also want to consider the background when setting up your lights. You don’t want the background to be too bright or too dark. If it’s too bright, it will wash out the subject’s face. If it’s too dark, it will make the subject appear shadowy. Try to find a happy medium so the background is visible but not distracting.
Finally, you’ll want to ensure that the light sources are not in the shot’s frame. This will create a glare on the camera lens and can be very distracting to viewers. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to start lighting your cinematic interview. Just remember to take your time and experiment until you find the perfect lighting setup for your shot.
Manfrotto MT190XPRO3 Aluminum 3-Section Tripod
- Shoot from all angles with a 90 Degree rotating camera tripod
- Set up quickly and securely thanks to Quick Power Lock
- Pair easily with your accessories
- Individual leg control provides smooth, sure movement
- Made to meet Italy's world-class quality standard
Separate Light Source
There are a number of different light sources that can be used to shoot cinematic interviews. One option is to use a softbox. This will create a softer light that will help to avoid any harsh shadows. Another option is to use a ring light. This will create a circular light that is very flattering for faces. Finally, another option is to use a beauty dish. This will create a more focused light that can help to highlight the features of your subject’s face.
When it comes to cinematic interviews, you can use various light sources to achieve the desired look. Natural light is always a great option and can be found almost anywhere outside. However, if you’re looking for something a little more controlled, you can use studio lights or LED panels. Whatever light source you choose, make sure it will give you the results you’re looking for.
When using natural light, it’s important to be aware of the sun’s direction. If you’re shooting in the morning or evening, the sun will be low on the horizon and can create some beautiful backlighting. However, if you’re shooting midday, the sun will be directly overhead and can create some harsh shadows. To avoid this, you can use a reflector to bounce some light back into the shadows.
Studio lights are a great option if you’re looking for something a little more controlled. You can use them to create various looks, from soft and natural to bold and dramatic. LED panels are also a great option for cinematic interviews. They provide a bright, even light that is easy to control.
No matter what light source you choose, the most important thing is to experiment and find what works best for you. There is no one perfect way to light a cinematic interview, so don’t be afraid to try out different techniques. Find what works for your subject and style, and you’ll be sure to create some stunning results.
Decorate The Room
The best way to set the mood for a cinematic interview is to decorate the set with some props. This can be anything from plants and flowers to rugs and curtains. Having a nicely decorated set makes it feel more like a real interview and less like a student film project. It also helps the interviewee feel more comfortable and relaxed, which will come through in the final product.
If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of ways to decorate a set without spending a lot of money. For example, you can use items that you already have around the house or borrow items from friends and family. You can also look for bargains at thrift stores or garage sales. With a little creativity, you can easily create a stylish and inviting setting for your cinematic interview.
Consider a few things when decorating a set for cinematic interviews. The first is to create a comfortable and natural space for the interview subjects. This might mean arranging furniture in a way that encourages conversation or adding some plants or other organic elements to help create a relaxed atmosphere.
It’s also important to think about the lighting when decorating a set for cinematic interviews. Good lighting can help to set the mood and create a certain atmosphere, so it’s worth taking some time to experiment with different lighting setups before settling on one.
Finally, consider adding some props or other visual elements that will help to add interest and depth to the shots. This could be anything from books and magazines to artworks or sculptures. By carefully selecting a few well-chosen props, you can really help to create a unique and visually arresting setting for your interviews.
Focus On Sound
When shooting an interview, it’s important to focus on the audio. This means ensuring that the audio is clear and audible and that you’re capturing the right soundbites from your subject.
You can do a few things to ensure good audio quality when shooting an interview. Firstly, make sure your subject is close to the microphone. This will ensure that their voice is captured clearly. Secondly, if possible, use an external microphone. This will further improve the quality of the audio. Finally, make sure to monitor the audio levels while you’re shooting and adjust accordingly.
By following these tips, you can be sure to capture high-quality audio when shooting an interview. This will help to create a more cinematic overall effect.
Deity S-Mic 2 Condenser Shotgun Microphone
Make Your Visitor Enjoyable
As a host, one of your main goals is to make your guests feel comfortable and at ease. This is especially important when shooting cinematic interviews. Here are a few tips to help make your guests feel at ease:
-Make sure you have a quiet and private space for the interview.
-Take the time to chat with your guest before the interview begins. Ask about their interests, get to know them a little bit.
-Explain what you want to achieve with the interview. Be clear and concise about your goals.
-Make sure the camera is set up and ready to go before the interview starts.
-Start the interview with easy questions that will help your guest relax.
By following these tips, you will be well on your way to shooting great cinematic interviews that will help tell your story in a powerful and impactful way.
Last Step Of How To Shoot Cinematic Interviews
When shooting cinematic interviews, it’s important to take one last look before pressing the record. This allows you to adjust your framing and make sure everything is in place. It also gives you a chance to get into character and really focus on your interviewee. By taking a few seconds to prepare, you can ensure that your interview looks and feels professional.
Now that you have your questions in order, it’s time to shoot the interviews. This will be the last step of your process, so make sure to take your time and get the footage you need. Be sure to ask each person the same questions and make sure they answer them in a way that is easy to follow. You may want to have a friend or colleague help you with this, as it can be difficult to keep track of everything while also shooting the footage.
Once you have all of your footage, it’s time to edit it into a cohesive whole. This can be daunting, but if you take your time and break it down into smaller pieces, it will be much easier. Start by identifying the main points you want to make, and then find the footage that best illustrates those points. From there, you can start to piece it all together, adding in any additional elements that will help tell your story.
With your interviews complete and your footage edited, you now have everything you need to create a stunning cinematic piece. Just remember to take your time and be creative – your hard work will definitely pay off in the end!
FAQs
How do I set up my camera for an interview?
You’ll need to do a few things to set up your camera for an interview. You’ll need to adjust your camera’s white balance, focus, and exposure. You may also want to use a tripod to help keep the shot steady.
Make sure your subject is well-lit, and try to avoid clutter in the background. If you’re unsure how to adjust your camera’s settings, consult your camera’s manual or look up a tutorial online.
How do I position myself and the subject?
The subject should be positioned about one-third of the way from the bottom of the frame, and you should be centered in the frame. This will help to keep your viewers’ attention focused on the subject. If you are shooting a landscape, you should position the horizon in the top or bottom third of the frame.This will help to create a more balanced composition.
What are some tips for getting great interviews?”
Some tips for getting great interviews are to do your research on the company, dress professionally, be prepared with questions, and have a solid resume. It’s also important to be aware of the common interview questions and answers, so that you can be ready to respond confidently. Finally, always send a thank you note after the interview!
Conclusion
How to shoot cinematic interviews? Shooting cinematic interviews can be a lot of fun, and the results can be really impressive. However, it takes a bit of practice to get the hang of it. In this article, we’ve outlined a few tips that should help you get started. By following these simple guidelines, you’ll be on your way to shooting beautiful cinematic interviews in no time.
Cinematic interviews are all about capturing the emotion of the moment. Remember to keep your shots steady, use a shallow depth of field, and pay attention to the lighting. With a little practice, you’ll be able to produce stunning results that will mesmerize your viewers.