How to Film the Perfect On-Camera Interview: Tips from the Studio

When done well, on-camera interviews are one of the most powerful storytelling tools in video production. They capture personality, authenticity, and emotion — the three elements that turn a simple conversation into something truly memorable. But getting it right takes more than just a camera and a chair. Whether you’re a seasoned videographer or just starting out, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to film the Perfect On-Camera Interview — from lighting and audio to building comfort and confidence on set.

Setting the Scene: Choosing the Right Environment

The first step to nailing an interview is selecting the right space. The environment sets the tone, influences lighting, and can even impact how relaxed your subject feels.

If you’re shooting in a studio, you already have the upper hand. At TSS Studios, our purpose-built filming space in the Sutherland Shire offers everything you need to create a professional and comfortable setting.

Why a studio works best:

• Controlled lighting: No interruptions from harsh sunlight or flickering fluorescents.

• Sound treatment: Our sound-treated room keeps your audio crisp and clear.

• Flexible backdrops: Choose from a green screen, blackout curtains, or display visuals on our studio TV monitors.

When it comes to creating the Perfect On-Camera Interview, the right environment means fewer distractions — allowing your subject’s message to shine.

Lighting That Flatters and Tells a Story

Lighting can make or break an interview. It doesn’t just illuminate your subject — it sets the mood.

Start with a three-point lighting setup:

1. Key Light: Your main source of light, typically placed 45 degrees to one side of your subject’s face.

2. Fill Light: Reduces shadows on the opposite side.

3. Back Light: Separates your subject from the background, adding depth and dimension.

At TSS Studios, our adjustable LED Lighting Grid (LightPro Ultrasoft panels) makes it easy to shape light precisely how you want it. Whether you’re after a bright, corporate look or a more cinematic tone, good lighting will instantly elevate your interview visuals.

Nailing the Audio: Clarity Above All

Bad audio is one of the quickest ways to lose your audience. Even with perfect visuals, unclear sound can ruin the experience.

Here’s how to ensure professional-grade sound:

• Use a lavalier microphone for close, consistent audio.

• Record backup sound with a boom mic in case of interference.

• Test levels before recording — aim for clear voice peaks around -6 dB.

• Eliminate background noise by using sound-treated spaces like those at TSS Studios.

Your goal? Make it sound like your subject is speaking directly to the viewer, not through a speaker.

The Art of Framing and Composition

Your camera frame says just as much as your subject does. In most cases, interviews are shot using a medium close-up (head and shoulders), keeping the subject’s eyes one-third from the top of the frame — the “rule of thirds” in action.

For a more natural and conversational feel:

• Position the subject slightly off-centre.

• Have them look just off-camera toward the interviewer, not into the lens (unless it’s a direct-to-camera delivery).

• Use soft focus on the background to keep attention on your subject.

Need to enhance the visual atmosphere? Our green screen cyclorama wall lets you digitally replace the background to match your brand, topic, or tone — perfect for interviews that need visual flexibility.

Getting Natural, Authentic Responses

An interview isn’t just about asking questions — it’s about connection. The best responses come when your subject forgets the camera is even there.

Tips to help your talent relax:

• Start with small talk before rolling.

• Keep your camera running to capture spontaneous, genuine answers.

• Ask open-ended questions that encourage storytelling, not “yes or no” replies.

• Give reassuring feedback between takes.

Your job is to make them feel comfortable — when they do, authenticity follows naturally.

Camera Settings and Technical Setup

For consistent results across interviews:

• Frame rate: 25fps (standard for professional interviews in Australia).

• Shutter speed: Double your frame rate (1/50 for 25fps).

• Aperture: Around f/2.8 to f/4 for soft background blur.

• ISO: Keep it as low as possible to avoid grain.

Always white balance your camera before recording, especially if using multiple light sources.

And if you’re filming in a professional studio like ours, you’ll have access to live playback via 43" studio monitors — a great tool to review framing, lighting, and focus in real-time.

Styling and Presentation

A little styling goes a long way in enhancing your video’s polish. Encourage your interviewee to wear solid colours — busy patterns or logos can distract or cause flickering on camera.

At TSS Studios, our beauty room (with three hair and makeup stations) ensures your subject is camera-ready. Having this space available on-site saves time and helps keep everyone comfortable between takes.

Editing: Bringing It All Together

Post-production is where the magic happens. This is your chance to craft rhythm, emotion, and impact.

When editing:

• Trim pauses or filler words to maintain flow.

• Use cutaways or B-roll to keep visuals dynamic.

• Balance your audio levels for a clean final mix.

• Add subtle lower thirds to identify speakers.

Want a more branded or dynamic look? With green screen footage from our studio, you can integrate your subject into custom environments — from sleek corporate offices to artistic visual backdrops.

Practical Studio Tips from TSS Studios

If you’re planning to film your interview at TSS Studios, here are a few ways to make the most of your session:

• Book a free tour to familiarise yourself with the layout.

• Use our dynamic backdrops (green screen, blackout, or TV display).

• Take advantage of the guest entertainment area for a relaxed atmosphere before and after filming.

• Opt for our DIY studio hire if you want full creative control at your own pace.

• Get expert support from our on-site team if you need technical guidance.

Filming the Perfect On-Camera Interview becomes much easier when the space works with you — not against you.

Perfect Interviews Start with the Perfect Setup

Creating the Perfect On-Camera Interview is about more than just asking good questions. It’s about building the right environment, lighting the scene with intention, capturing clear audio, and helping your subject feel at ease.

Whether you’re producing corporate content, marketing videos, or creative pieces, remember — the studio you choose makes all the difference.

At TSS Studios, we provide everything you need to make your next interview seamless, professional, and impactful. Book your session today and bring your next conversation to life in the heart of the Sutherland Shire.