How to Prep People for an Interview Video: A Proven Strategy for Authentic and Impactful On-Camera Results

When it comes to business and organizational storytelling, video interviews are one of the most effective tools for building trust, communicating brand values, and connecting with audiences on a human level. But even the most compelling stories can fall flat if the people in front of the camera aren’t well-prepared. At Haller Concepts, we’ve produced thousands of interview-style videos for companies and organizations across St. Louis and beyond—and we’ve found that success hinges not just on the equipment and set design, but on how comfortable and confident your interview subjects feel.

In this post, we’ll walk through how to prepare your team, clients, or executives for a successful on-camera interview. Whether you’re capturing testimonials, executive messaging, or promotional narratives, these tips will help ensure your production looks polished and professional.

1. Pre-Interview Communication is Key
Before the camera ever rolls, it’s important to establish clear communication with your interviewee. Share the goal of the video and why their voice matters. Give them context: Who will watch the video? Where will it be shown? What’s the tone you’re going for—casual, professional, motivational?

Once they understand the purpose, they’re far more likely to buy in and deliver a natural performance that aligns with your message.

2. Provide Simple, Practical Talking Points
Avoid handing interviewees a full script—it can lead to stiff, robotic delivery. Instead, outline 3–5 key themes or questions you want them to address. Help them think of real examples or anecdotes that support each point.

For example:

What problem did our company solve for you?

What’s one thing that sets your team apart?

How has our product/service impacted your day-to-day operations?

Having those prompts in advance gives them time to reflect and helps prevent rambling during the shoot.

3. Wardrobe and Style Guidance
Camera-friendly wardrobe choices can elevate the professionalism of your video. Offer suggestions like:

Avoid loud patterns, bright white, or logos (unless it’s your brand).

Choose solid, muted colors that flatter skin tones and avoid moiré on camera.

Bring a backup outfit—especially for longer shoots.

If the shoot is part of a larger branded content series, Haller Concepts can help guide visual consistency across interviews.

4. Set the Scene and Manage Nerves
Even the most seasoned professionals can feel nervous in front of a camera. At Haller Concepts, we often begin with casual conversation during setup to help break the ice. Our private studio is designed with comfort and focus in mind—free from outside distractions, with flexible lighting setups that adapt to each person’s features and personality.

We also coach interviewees in real time, gently guiding their responses without forcing them into a “performance.” Our camera and sound operators are experienced in helping talent feel natural and confident, whether we’re in the studio or on-location.

5. Technical Readiness: Lights, Cameras, Confidence
A successful interview depends on more than the talent—it requires seamless coordination of the crew and equipment. From framing shots and perfecting audio to setting up interview-specific lighting, every technical detail plays a role in how your subject comes across.

Our team at Haller Concepts brings decades of hands-on expertise in building environments that elevate your message. Whether we’re working in your office, outdoors, or inside our private production studio, we ensure your interview looks cinematic and sounds crystal clear.

6. What About Remote Interviews or Drone B-Roll?
Modern marketing videos often blend traditional interviews with additional content like cutaways or aerial B-roll. At Haller Concepts, we’re fully equipped with licensed drone pilots who can capture dynamic aerials—even indoors—adding another layer of visual storytelling to your piece.

Need to combine remote interviews with studio footage? No problem. We can match lighting, audio, and file formats to maintain cohesion across all media, no matter where it was filmed.

Conclusion: Partnering with the Right Production Team
Preparing someone to appear on camera isn’t just about confidence—it’s about creating the right environment and providing the support they need to tell their story well. That’s where Haller Concepts comes in.

As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company serving St. Louis since 1982, Haller Concepts has the experience, creativity, and technical know-how to deliver interviews that resonate.

We offer:

Full-service studio and location video/photography

Licensed indoor drone pilots

Private studio setups perfect for small productions and interviews

Repurposing strategies to extend your content across platforms

Expert crew services, including sound and camera operators

Post-production editing, file conversions, and support for all media types

From pre-production planning to final edits, our team ensures every aspect of your interview video is handled with care, creativity, and precision. Let us help you craft interview-driven content that stands out, inspires trust, and drives results.

Ready to elevate your next video interview? Contact Haller Concepts to get started on a custom production that fits your message, style, and audience.

(314) 913-5626 Mike Haller mikeh@hallerconcepts.com