How Do I Prepare for My Interview Video Shoot?

Preparing for an interview video shoot is crucial to ensuring a smooth and successful filming process. At DMM Productions, we understand the importance of capturing authentic stories, and your preparation plays a significant role in achieving that.

Here are some essential tips to help you get ready for your interview video shoot with us.

Confirm the Date and Time:

First things first, make sure you know the date and time of your interview. Mark it on your calendar and set reminders to avoid any scheduling conflicts.

Familiarize Yourself with the Questions:

In many cases, we will send you a copy of the interview questions we expect to ask during our shoot. Take the time to read through and practice going over the questions that will be asked during the interview. Don’t overdo it though, it's important to be prepared, but avoid memorizing your answers. Instead, focus on knowing and understanding the key points you want to convey to your audience (learn why we don’t like scripts).

With that in mind, take some time to think about who will be watching the interview video and adjust your answers accordingly. Think about what key points or messages will resonate most with your intended audience and ensure they are included in your responses.

Dress Professionally and Reflect Your Brand:

Choose clothing that not only looks professional but also reflects the values and aesthetics of your brand. Consider your brand's color palette, style, and overall image when deciding what to wear. Your attire should complement the tone and message of your interview.

Here are a few more tips.

Avoid Distracting Patterns or Logos: While it's important to showcase your brand, avoid clothing with distracting patterns, logos, or slogans that may detract from the focus of the interview. Opt for solid colors or subtle patterns that enhance your appearance without overpowering the visual narrative.
Pay Attention to Fit and Comfort: Ensure that your clothing fits well and allows you to move comfortably during the interview. Avoid overly tight or restrictive clothing that may cause discomfort or distract you from focusing on your responses. Conversely, avoid clothing that is too loose or baggy, as it may appear unprofessional on camera.
Consider Layering Options: Layering can add visual interest to your outfit while also providing practical benefits. For example, wearing a blazer or cardigan over a shirt can add polish to your look and provide an additional layer for clipping on a lav mic. Additionally, layering allows you to adjust your clothing based on the temperature of the interview location.
Pay Attention to Grooming and Accessories: In addition to clothing, pay attention to grooming and accessories to complete your look. Ensure that your hair is neatly styled, and any facial hair is well-groomed. Choose accessories such as jewelry or watches that complement your outfit without being overly distracting.

Relax and Be Yourself:

On the day of the shoot, remember to relax and be yourself. The more natural and genuine you are during the interview, the more impactful the final video will be.

Here are a few tips.

Practice Deep Breathing: Before the interview begins, take a few moments to practice deep breathing exercises. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Deep breathing can help calm your nerves and reduce anxiety levels.
Focus on the Conversation: Instead of thinking about the camera or the technical aspects of the interview, focus on having a genuine conversation with the interviewer. Don’t worry about looking directly into the lens, look and talk to the interviewer. We’ll have it set up where the interviewer will be right next to the camera.
Embrace Imperfections: Remember that it's okay to make mistakes or stumble over your words during the interview. We’ll have the opportunity to have multiple takes and utilize the one you feel more confident about in the final video.
Use Humor and Personality: Don't be afraid to inject humor or share personal anecdotes during the interview, if appropriate. Adding humor and personality can help you connect with the audience and make your interview more memorable.
Trust the Process: Trust in the expertise of the interviewers and our production team at DMM Productions. Remind yourself that we are there to support you and ensure that you look your best on camera. Trusting the process can help alleviate any concerns or doubts you may have.

Communicate Any Concerns or Questions:

Don't hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or concerns you may have before the shoot. Whether it's about the interview process, logistics, or anything else, we're here to help ensure you feel comfortable and prepared. We’re here to help you make this the best video possible!

Preparing for an interview video shoot with DMM Productions is a collaborative effort between our team and yours. By following these tips and communicating openly with us, you'll be well-prepared to share your story effectively and create a compelling interview video. We look forward to working with you to bring your vision to life!