The single most important element of your production is your talent. Contributors are an invaluable resource for lending credibility to a production’s storyline. As you begin the process of selecting your contributors, look for individuals who have interesting opinions, concisely expressed. Base your selection for talent on a person’s authority, expertise and ability to deliver.
- Gage the person’s stature. Does the person sound confident, composed and enthusiastic about the subject? Can she/he put across views clearly and simply? Does the person have any communication issues (strong accent, a speech impediment or an irritating mannerism)?
- Will this person create a favorable impression on screen? Consider dress, posture and manner.
- Does this person have strong public speaking skills? Clear pronunciation, good diction and poise all translate well on camera.
- Does this person have the composure and stamina necessary for multiple takes and re-shoots?
Once you have selected your talent, prepare a list of open-ended questions pertaining to the storyline and conduct and record a preliminary audio interview with each contributor. Transcribe the interview and pull selected sound bites that you want the talent to address on camera. Provide the talent with a written transcript and create a digital version for the teleprompter. Prepare your talent for the recording session by sending instructions for dress, makeup and accessories.
Example for Women Contributors: For the interview which will be a medium closeup shot (waist up), please wear a solid color blouse or shirt; jackets and/or scarves are also acceptable. The blouse and/or jacket should be a solid color, no patterns, weaves, or stripes; please avoid reds, oranges, whites or blacks. Blues, greens, grays and browns all work well for video. Hair should be neatly-styled and accessories, simple and tasteful. Please bring and wear makeup that is appropriate for your skin tone and natural coloring.
Example for Men Contributors: For the interview which will be a medium closeup shot (waist up), please wear a solid color suit coat and shirt with collar (tie optional). The shirt, tie and jacket should be a solid color, no patterns, weaves, or stripes; please avoid reds, oranges, whites or blacks. Blues, greens, grays and browns all work well for video. Hair should be neatly-styled and facial hair neatly trimmed.
Additional matters for consideration and confirmation include:
- Fees and Expenses
- Dates and Details of Recording Session
- Transport, Parking and Accommodations
- Media Consent
- Program Credits
Assemble your ‘A’ team – recruit the best talent possible! Make sure they know the work involved and are committed to the production.
Written by Kate Lee, Smith College Senior Media Producer