How to make an interview video only look like a million bucks

Making an engaging interview-style video does not have to be complicated or expensive. You really just need four things (technically five).

Two Cameras

Why two? You will setup one camera directly in front of the person talking and the second one will be placed 10 degrees to the right or left. They should run simultaneously. Having this setup will allow you to do two things.

Have multiple angles you can cut between so your video isn’t boring
Have multiple angles you can cut between in case your speaker flubs a line and you need to make it look like they didn’t.

Your cameras don’t have to be amazing, although you get what you pay for. Most digital cameras today will do the trick just fine. Here’s one of Amazon for under $100.

Lapel Mic

Don’t trust the microphone on the camera, don’t trust silence and don’t trust your speakers ability to regulate their volume. All of these problems can be dealt with effectively by using a well-placed lapel mic.

Once again, you don’t have to spend a ton of money. You can get a decent one on Amazon for under $20 that will plug into your camera directly.

Lighting

To your eyes, they look fine. Through the lens they look shadowy and weirdly orange. Invest in a good light to make your interviewee look their best… especially if that person is an executive.

Here’s an entire setup for under $50.

White Sheet

Unless you have a stunning brick wall in a perfectly silent room that will make a good backdrop, invest in a white sheet. Iron it, hang it up behind your speaker and start rolling. It will reduce distractions and make your videos look professional every time.