Lighting a Video Interview

Learn how to assemble the right gear, frame your shoot, and control the lighting on the set of a video interview. Get techniques that will flatter your subjects and your budget.

Introduction

• Welcome
• Using the exercise files

1. The Objectives of Interview Lighting

• What are the objectives?
• Things to consider before you arrive

2. The Essential Equipment

• A basic light kit
• Light types
• Stands
• Light modifiers
• Stingers and adapters

3. A Review of the Exposure Triangle

• Shutter speed
• Aperture
• ISO

4. Determine the Mood

• Time of day
• Emotional tone of the interview
• Genre

5. Establish a Schedule

• Time vs. resources
• Compromise

6. Considerations Before the Interview

• Bringing the talent on set
• Interview tone and mood continuity
• Technical concerns

7. Background of an Interview

• Interview space as the background
• Interview backdrop

8. Framing the Shot

• Evaluating the space
• Finding the best angle
• Talent standing in the shot

9. The Essentials of Three-Point Lighting

• Key light
• Fill light
• Back light

10. Make It Look Good

• Lighting the background
• Lighting the talent's face

11. Techniques for Controlling the Light

• Flagging
• Bouncing
• Dimming
• Netting
• Diffusing
• Color correcting

12. Finalizing the Shot

• Using a stand-in
• Evaluating the talent's wardrobe
• Final adjustments
• Set the eye line
• Bringing it all together

Conclusion

• Wrapping up