How to handle TV interviews
Much of the advice on radio interviews can be applied to television and it's worth reading that article first. There are though some extra things to consider with screen interviews.
- Keep eye contact with the interviewee as much as possible - don't look at the camera.
- Dress to match the tone of the story. If it's a light story, you don't need to wear a jacket and tie. If you're commenting on an accident in the village, go formal.
- If you're sitting down, don't slouch. Put your bottom in the back of the chair and lean forward slightly.
- Get someone to practice with you and help you spot your 'nervous fiddles'. Do you jangle your car keys? Do you rock back and forth?
- Avoid wearing clothes with very close stripes as these can cause a 'strobing' effect on camera. Avoid bright whites which can look dazzling under studio lights. Wear plain, pastel colours.
- Keep eye contact with the interviewee as much as possible - don't look at the camera.
- Dress to match the tone of the story. If it's a light story, you don't need to wear a jacket and tie. If you're commenting on an accident in the village, go formal.
- If you're sitting down, don't slouch. Put your bottom in the back of the chair and lean forward slightly.
- Get someone to practice with you and help you spot your 'nervous fiddles'. Do you jangle your car keys? Do you rock back and forth?
- Avoid wearing clothes with very close stripes as these can cause a 'strobing' effect on camera. Avoid bright whites which can look dazzling under studio lights. Wear plain, pastel colours.
