When conducting interviews, the location can play a significant role in the shoot's success; unfortunately, a fancy hotel lobby or outdoor location can quickly get expensive and messy.

In that instance, you might look at renting a video studio that is equipped with everything you need. While a rented space can feel impersonal and limiting, there are many things you can do to make your guest (and yourself) comfortable and create a nice environment to conduct a successful interview.

Tips for a Comfortable and Productive Shoot

Dress Appropriately

When planning your outfit for the shoot, consider the environment and tone of the interview. Dress in a comfortable, professional, and appropriate way for the occasion.

Communicate with Your Crew

Good communication is essential for a successful shoot. Make sure to communicate clearly with anyone involved in the shoot about the goals and expectations for the interview and encourage open dialogue throughout the process. The crew will include anybody accompanying you to the interview, the cameraperson, the video editor, and your video marketing strategist.

Take Breaks

Interview shoots can be physically and mentally demanding, so taking regular breaks to recharge and stay focused is important. Schedule short breaks into your shoot plan to allow everyone to rest, grab a snack, or stretch their legs.

Stay Organized

Keep your equipment and workspace organized to minimize distractions and ensure that you can easily access what you need when you need it. Use labels, markers, or colored tape to help you quickly identify different pieces of equipment and cables.

Use Natural Lighting

Take advantage of natural lighting in the studio to create a warm and inviting atmosphere whenever possible. Position your subject near a window or door to allow natural light to shine on their face, and adjust your camera settings to compensate for any variations in lighting.

Be Flexible

Despite your best efforts, unexpected challenges can arise during an interview shoot. Be prepared to adapt to schedule, environment, or equipment changes, and remain flexible in your approach to ensure a successful outcome.

Following these additional tips can help ensure a comfortable and productive shoot that meets your goals and exceeds your expectations.

Personalizing a rental studio

Personalizing a rental studio can create a more comfortable and engaging atmosphere for your interviewee, crew, and audience. Here are some tips for personalizing a rental studio:

Add Decor

Adding decor to the studio can help create a more visually appealing and inviting space. Consider adding items like plants, artwork, or small items like pillows or throws that align with the theme or mood of your interview.

Use Props

Depending on the nature of your interview, using props can help add depth and context to the conversation. Consider using items like books, tools, or equipment related to the topic.

Customize the Backdrop

Customizing the backdrop with a logo or branding can promote your brand or message to your audience. You can also use a custom backdrop to create a specific mood or atmosphere, such as a beach or forest scene.

Use Lighting Effects

Lighting can dramatically impact the look and feel of a studio. Consider using lighting effects like colored gels, directional lighting, or diffused lighting to create a more dynamic and engaging atmosphere.

Videohaus got your back!

If you're using Videohaus, you're in luck, as they already have an interview setup available. This means you don't need to worry about bringing your own equipment, as Videohaus will provide everything you need to conduct a successful interview.

However, while Videohaus provides the technical setup, it's still up to you to prepare for the interview and make your guest feel welcome and comfortable in the rented studio. Here are some tips to help you achieve this.

Prepare for the Interview

Before the interview

1. Make sure you have a clear idea of what you want to discuss and achieve during the conversation.
2. Create a list of questions to guide the conversation and help you stay on track.
3. Familiarize yourself with the equipment and space provided by Videohaus so you can focus on the interview itself.

Inform the Guest

Ensure your guest knows what to expect before arriving at the studio. Provide them with a clear idea of the purpose of the interview, the expected length, and any other details they need to know, such as dress code or location. Send them a detailed confirmation email outlining all the necessary information.

Make the Guest Feel Welcome

When your guest arrives at the studio, greet them warmly and introduce them to your crew, if present. Provide them with a comfortable space to sit and prepare for the interview, such as a dressing room or waiting area. Offer them refreshments like water or coffee to help them feel at ease. Luckily, Videohaus already has a stocked snack bar, so you can cross that one off your list!

Show the Guest Around

Before the interview begins, give your guest a studio tour, including the equipment setup and any amenities available. This will help them feel more comfortable and confident during the interview.

Be Professional and Respectful

Throughout the interview, maintain a professional and respectful demeanor. Listen carefully to your guest's responses and ask follow-up questions when appropriate. Be mindful of their body language and nonverbal cues, and respond accordingly.

The perfect interview with Videohaus

Renting a video studio for an interview shoot can be a cost-effective and convenient option, but it's important to make the space comfortable and personalized for your guest. Following the tips we've provided can help ensure a successful interview and create a professional and engaging atmosphere.

At Videohaus, we offer a fully-equipped studio that includes all the necessary equipment and amenities for a productive shoot. Our team is dedicated to providing the support and guidance you need to create compelling video content that meets your goals and exceeds your expectations. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you achieve interview success in a rented studio.