The Power of Interviews (MMM #19)
Hey y’all,
Madeline here, back with the last Movie Minute entry of March. The topic for this entry will be about one of the core elements of the many projects we work on: interviews! Nearly all of our projects that we handle shoots for involve interviews in some capacity, whether it’s quick and casual or more formal and structured. These interviews form a core part of the final products, whether it be shorter reels or longer highlight videos.
In addition to providing the bulk of our content, interviews are a powerful tool for telling thorough and honest stories. Whether it be an experience serving in the military, growing up in a Gold Star family, or showcasing the cause and purpose of their mission or that of their organization, engaging in a conversation with an interviewer is an effective way to showcase their stories for the world to see.
Preparing for the interview is a process that varies depending on the production. For more informal settings such as Legacies Alive, which usually take place during outdoor events, we usually employ run-and-gun photography, and casually ask attendees if they would like to be interviewed. If they agree, we guide them to a location and provide them with a microphone where we ask them a series of questions that are usually improvised- often about the event and what it means to them.
On the other hand, for more formal settings, such as corporate interviews or video resumes, the process is more structured. The environment is usually more elaborate and climate controlled, and we use more advanced equipment such as lighting kits, tripods, and more professional cameras such as the Sony A7IV, A7S3 and FS7 among others. Arrangements for interview subjects are usually made beforehand, and we spend an ample amount of time preparing the studio with camera, audio and lighting equipment.
We typically use two angles for each interview, ensuring redundancy and a cutaway shot for smooth editing. We also use wireless transmitters for audio and occasionally shotgun microphones depending on the shoot demands. Over the last two years, we’ve pivoted to producing more material for our highlight content and especially social reels. It is important that we help the subject of each interview to be as comfortable as possible, so they can tell their stories with confidence.
Overall, the interview is the most important part of the projects that we craft at Poor Bear. Whether it be a casual interview at an event for Gold Star families or a more structured one for corporate clients, letting people tell stories in their own voice is an effective way to spread a message for audiences to see and engage with.
That’s all for this entry in The Movie Minute. Wishing you all the best, and see y’all in 2! -Madeline
We at Poor Bear Stories are passionate about your story. Creating media that makes a difference is our craft and life’s work. With over 35 years of industry experience, we bring a host of solutions to your brand and media endeavors.
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