10 commandments of a good VT.

• START with the best pictures you have. This means you grab the audience’s attention- like in news writing.
• REMEMBER the rule of thirds. This is checking the placement of the interviewee or anything on camera to ensure it is pleasing to the eye.
• CHECK lighting. If harsh lighting is coming from above or behind it can either wash out or silhouette the interviewee.
• SET white balance. Don’t be embarrassed to ask the interviewee to hold up a piece of white paper.
• CHOOSE a good position for the interviewee. Ideally have them stand up, be close to them with no barriers in the way and the gun mic near their mouth, but not in shot.
• SET the focus and iris.
• USE cut-aways carefully, hold for 5-6 seconds.
• SEQUENCES are the best cut-aways (the same thing being shot in different positions). Shoot 5 different angles if you can.
• KEEP natural sound, and lower level.
• INTERVIEW someone while they are doing something. They are most comfortable in their element, and it looks good on tape.