Hidden Heroes :: Production Tips

If students are recording the interview on tape, make sure that they arrive early and leave plenty of time to get the technical elements (camera, audio, etc.) in place.
Both the interviewer and the interviewee should be seated comfortably.
Students should come prepared with as much background information as possible so that they know the person inside and out.
Students should ask open-ended questions that prompt the person to speak about emotions—how they feel about something.
Try to have the interviewee reference an anecdote, a story, or a photograph that they can elaborate on.
Students should be aware of potential noise distractions. If they are filming outside, they should find a quiet location.

Filming techniques

Use a tripod for the interviews to stabilize the camera.
Make sure that the backdrop for the interview is interesting and makes a connection with the hero.
Set up the interview so that the person is not looking directly into the camera.
Choose a quiet location so that there will be no audio complications.
Think about the audio. You may not want to rely on the camera's microphone. If the camera has a separate audio jack, use a shotgun or a lavaliere microphone.
Film more B-Roll than you think you will need. Lots of B-Roll is helpful to have in the editing process to cover certain cuts (see editing techniques).
Make sure that the lighting is appropriate.

Editing techniques

Use a storyboard to organize the piece.
Show, don't tell. Stay away from "talking heads" and use B-roll to fill out the story.
Know the material. Don’t begin editing until you have the footage nearly memorized.
Incorporate motion. Don’t be afraid to use shots that have motion, as it often makes the piece move along more swiftly.
Don't overuse dissolves. Try to stick with straight cuts.
Pay attention to the audio edits as well.

Website production techniques

Create a flow chart.
Keep the pages clean. Don’t try to put too many images or text on one web page.
Give lots of thought to how the site will be designed and laid out.
Scan in photos at a low resolution so that pages don’t take long to download.
Always keep the top level navigation accessible.
Make the homepage as inviting as possible. Many users won't go beyond that page if it isn't attractive and well put together.