I'm not going to keep you guessing for this one, I'm going to break it to you early.. use TWO cameras.
In this discussion I am going to outline the benefits of using two cameras, opposed to one, and how this can level up your interviews in more ways than you may know.
Using two cameras in an interview provides a more dynamic and engaging visual experience. Here's why it's better:
Multiple Angles: Two cameras allow you to capture different angles, making the video feel more varied and engaging.
Better Editing Flexibility: With two angles, you can switch between shots to emphasise important moments or reactions, improving the flow of the interview. The extra camera also gives you the freedom to cut out mistakes, with another angle to switch to. It also provides the flexibility to cut out unwanted conversation, the cutting allowing for a smooth transition from one talking point to another.
Visual Interest: A single shot can get repetitive, switching between cameras keeps the viewer’s attention.
Enhanced Storytelling: It helps convey non-verbal cues like body language and facial expressions, adding depth to the conversation.
Overall, it creates a more professional, polished, and captivating result.
Tips for Two-Camera Set Ups:
Camera Placement: Position one camera for a wider shot to capture the subject from a distance, while the other camera should be closer for more intimate close-ups or details like facial expressions. This creates visual variety and adds interest.
Vary Angles: Use different angles to keep things dynamic. For example, one camera could be positioned at a 45-degree angle to the subject, while the second might be directly in front or slightly to the side for a more head-on view.
Match Eyelines: Even though both cameras are on one person, make sure that the subject's gaze is natural and doesn't look at the cameras. Position them so they can look slightly off-camera to simulate a conversation while still capturing engaging shots (unless the video calls for talking to camera of course).
Consistent Lighting: Ensure the lighting is consistent for both cameras. Mismatched lighting can make transitions between shots jarring, so balance the light sources to create a smooth, professional look.
Sound: If using two cameras, make sure both capture clear audio. A lav mic or shotgun mic can help. Ensure audio is synced in post-production for smooth transitions when switching between angles.
Camera Settings: Both cameras should have the same settings (white balance, exposure, and frame rate) to ensure consistency when cutting between the shots.
Focus on Emotion and Expression: Since both cameras are on one subject, focus on capturing a range of emotions through different framing. Use close-ups to show subtle expressions and wide shots to capture body language.
Editing for Impact: When editing, switch between the wide shot and close-up to emphasise key moments, reactions, and emotional shifts, keeping the viewer engaged and maintaining a natural flow.
This approach keeps the interview visually engaging while allowing for smooth transitions and dynamic storytelling.
Conclusion
To sum up the above, using two cameras in an interview offers a significant boost to the overall production quality. It provides visual variety, enhances storytelling by capturing different angles and emotions, and allows for smoother editing transitions. Whether highlighting key moments or maintaining viewer engagement, a two-camera setup ensures a more captivating and polished final product. By incorporating this technique to your video production in Sydney, you will see a game-changing step up in your video quality.
Why choose Burning Pictures?
If you stuck around this long, you must be semi interested in what we have to say. We are a Sydney based youth driven team of professional creatives that have dedicated ourselves to learning the art of cinema and video production. More importantly, we absolutely love what we do and are excited to assist you any way we can. Have a project in mind? Reach out to us at info@burningpictures.com.au