9.1 Preparing for and Conducting Effective Interviews

Interviews are the backbone of documentary storytelling. Proper preparation is key to conducting effective interviews that capture compelling narratives. This includes thorough research, thoughtful question crafting, and creating a comfortable environment for your subject.

Building rapport and trust with interviewees is crucial for eliciting authentic responses. Active listening, open body language, and empathy go a long way in encouraging subjects to share their stories openly. Mastering these techniques will result in richer, more insightful interviews.

Interview Preparation

Conducting Research and Pre-Interviews

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• Thoroughly research the subject matter and interviewee's background to develop well-informed questions
• Conduct pre-interviews with the subject or their associates to gather additional context and identify potential discussion points
• Create an interview outline or question list based on the research and pre-interview findings to ensure all relevant topics are covered
• Anticipate potential challenges or sensitive topics that may arise during the interview and plan appropriate approaches to address them

Scouting Locations and Preparing Equipment

• Scout potential interview locations that provide a comfortable and visually interesting setting for both the interviewee and the audience
• Consider factors such as lighting, background noise, and visual distractions when selecting an interview location
• Prepare a comprehensive equipment checklist to ensure all necessary gear is available and functioning properly (cameras, microphones, lighting, backup devices)
• Test equipment in advance to identify and resolve any technical issues before the interview
• Ensure spare batteries, memory cards, and other essential supplies are readily available to avoid interruptions during the interview

Obtaining Consent and Permissions

• Provide the interviewee with a clear explanation of the purpose, format, and intended use of the interview to ensure informed consent
• Obtain signed consent forms from the interviewee granting permission to record, use, and distribute the interview material as intended
• Discuss any restrictions or conditions the interviewee may have regarding the use of their likeness or the information shared during the interview
• Clarify ownership rights and potential future uses of the interview material to avoid misunderstandings or legal issues down the line

Effective Questioning Techniques

Crafting Open-Ended and Follow-Up Questions

• Use open-ended questions that encourage the interviewee to provide detailed, thoughtful responses rather than simple yes or no answers
• Craft questions that allow the interviewee to share their unique experiences, perspectives, and insights on the topic at hand
• Prepare follow-up questions that build upon the interviewee's responses and delve deeper into specific points of interest
• Use probing questions to clarify ambiguous statements or to encourage the interviewee to elaborate on important details

Structuring the Interview for Optimal Flow

• Begin the interview with warm-up questions to help the interviewee feel comfortable and establish rapport
• Organize questions in a logical sequence that builds upon previous responses and maintains a coherent narrative flow
• Include a mix of broad, overarching questions and more specific, targeted inquiries to create a well-rounded interview
• Allow flexibility in the interview structure to accommodate unexpected insights or deviations that may arise during the conversation
• Conclude the interview with reflective questions that allow the interviewee to summarize their thoughts and provide closure to the discussion

Building Connection and Engagement

Practicing Active Listening and Nonverbal Communication

• Demonstrate active listening by maintaining eye contact, nodding, and providing verbal affirmations to show genuine interest in the interviewee's responses
• Use nonverbal cues such as leaning forward, smiling, and maintaining an open posture to create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere
• Avoid interrupting the interviewee or rushing to fill silences, allowing them time to gather their thoughts and express themselves fully
• Paraphrase or summarize the interviewee's statements to ensure understanding and to encourage further elaboration

Establishing Rapport and Trust with the Interviewee

• Begin the interview with casual conversation or small talk to help the interviewee feel at ease and establish a personal connection
• Show empathy and understanding when discussing sensitive or emotional topics, creating a safe space for the interviewee to share their experiences
• Avoid judgmental language or reactions that may cause the interviewee to feel defensive or hesitant to open up
• Express genuine appreciation for the interviewee's time and willingness to share their story, acknowledging the value of their contribution to the project