Creating compelling and effective video content requires a blend of technical expertise, creativity, and strategic planning. Among the essential elements of professional video production are interviews and B-roll footage. These components work together to tell a cohesive and engaging story. In this guide, we will demystify the process of interview and B-roll production, providing you with valuable insights to make informed decisions for your business or organization.
Understanding Interviews in Video Production
The Role of Interviews
Interviews are a cornerstone of many video projects, particularly in corporate, documentary, and promotional content. They provide a human element, adding authenticity and personal touch to your message. The success of an interview depends on several factors, including the setup, the interviewee’s comfort, and the overall production environment.
Key Elements of a Successful Interview Setup
- Location: Choosing the right location is crucial. Whether it’s an office, a studio, or an outdoor setting, the environment should align with the message of the interview.
- Lighting: Proper lighting enhances the visual quality and sets the mood. Soft, diffused lighting is often ideal for interviews as it reduces harsh shadows and creates a flattering image.
- Sound: Clear audio is non-negotiable. Using high-quality microphones and soundproofing techniques ensures that the interviewee’s voice is crisp and free from background noise.
- Camera Setup: Multiple camera angles can add depth and variety to the footage. A standard setup might include a primary camera for the main shot and a secondary camera for side angles or close-ups.
Tips for Conducting Interviews
- Prepare Questions in Advance: While spontaneous answers can be valuable, having a structured set of questions ensures that all necessary topics are covered.
- Build Rapport: Spend time with the interviewee before filming to make them comfortable. A relaxed subject is more likely to provide genuine and engaging responses.
- Stay Flexible: Be ready to adapt your questions based on the interviewee’s responses. Sometimes the best insights come from unexpected directions.

The Importance of B-Roll Footage
What is B-Roll?
B-roll is supplemental footage that enhances the primary video content. It includes shots that provide context, illustrate points, and break the monotony of the talking head shots. Effective B-roll can transform a good video into a great one by adding visual interest and depth.
Types of B-Roll
- Contextual Shots: These provide background information, showing the environment or setting related to the interview.
- Action Shots: Footage of people performing relevant activities adds dynamism and context.
- Close-ups and Details: These shots focus on specific objects or actions, providing visual variety and highlighting key elements.
Best Practices for Shooting B-Roll
- Plan Ahead: Identify potential B-roll opportunities during the pre-production phase. This ensures you capture all necessary footage.
- Keep It Relevant: Make sure the B-roll footage directly relates to the interview content. Irrelevant shots can distract from the main message.
- Variety is Key: Shoot a mix of wide, medium, and close-up shots to provide a range of options during editing.
Integrating Interviews and B-Roll
The magic of video production lies in the seamless integration of interviews and B-roll. During the editing process, B-roll is used to cover cuts, illustrate points made by the interviewee, and add visual interest. This blend keeps the audience engaged and helps convey a more comprehensive story.
Why Choose St Louis Video Editing
At St Louis Video Editing, we pride ourselves on being a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company. Our extensive experience and dedication to quality ensure that your video production needs are met with the highest standards.
Our Services Include:
- Full-Service Studio and Location Video and Photography: We offer both studio and on-location shoots, tailored to your specific requirements.
- Editing and Post-Production: Our skilled editors refine your footage to create a polished final product.
- Licensed Drone Pilots: We provide aerial footage with our specialized drones, capable of both indoor and outdoor flights.
- Custom Productions: We tailor our services to meet diverse media requirements, from branding videos to corporate communications.
- Private Studio Setups: Our studio is equipped for small productions and interviews, with comprehensive lighting and visual setups.
Our Expertise
St Louis Video Editing has a proven track record of working with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies across the St. Louis area. Our team is well-versed in all file types, media styles, and accompanying software, ensuring your content is versatile and repurposable for various platforms.
Whether you need a custom interview studio setup, professional sound and camera operators, or specialized equipment, we have everything necessary to make your next video production perfect. Our commitment to excellence and creativity makes us the ideal partner for your corporate photography and video needs.
Transform your vision into reality with St Louis Video Editing. Contact us today to discuss your next project and experience the difference of working with true professionals.
By leveraging the expertise and resources at St Louis Video Editing, you can ensure that your video productions not only meet but exceed your expectations. From interviews to B-roll and beyond, we are here to make your stories come to life.




































