Here at bv02 we have shot many a two person interview (or two up). Here are some gear/layout tips and tricks to make the interview looks amazing.
Gear:
We primarily shoot with Digital SLR cameras. After breaking a handful of expensive bodies, we settled on the Canon 550D, which balances video quality and price quite nicely.
For interviews we always shoot prime lenses, switching between the Canon nifty fifty, and the Sigma 30mm 1.4
All of our audio is recorded separately on a Zoom H4n using Sony Lavalier microphones. This ensures high quality, noise free recording.
And of course transportation. All of our gear is transported using Pelican 1510 cases. These cases have taken us from the heat of Silicon Valley, to the ice and snow above the Arctic Circle.
We light all of our travel shots with the Kino Flow DIVA light 401 kit. This allows for a wide even portable light source, that can be broken down quickly without damaging the bulbs.
For synching audio and video we have a purpose built iPad app called Syncslate. This gives us timed beats and their matching numbers in the video to make it easy to match up. You can download Syncslate here
The Shoot
Our interview setup is fairly straightforward, but has many variables. Cameras are set for minimal depth of field, so ensuring the talent is in focus in a serious job. All audio is recorded separately, so syncing must be done in post.
Talent is set up beside each other at an angle, and both cameras are set with the same lens to focus on the subject. Introductions and establishing shots will be recorded after the interview. The location of the light is also fluid, dependant on the lighting of the room, depth of the background etc.
