Interviewer Role Switched with Subject Interviewee
In the realm of filmmaking, conducting research interviews with producers is a crucial step towards understanding the creative process and the logistical realities behind the scenes. To ensure a fruitful and engaging conversation, here are some essential guidelines to follow.
Location Selection
When choosing a location for the interview, it's vital to pick a place that is comfortable, quiet, and convenient for the film producer. A professional atmosphere or a setting linked to their work, such as their production office or a quiet meeting room, can enhance relevance and comfort. This encourages openness and focused conversation [1][2].
Information Recording
To preserve accuracy and allow for a detailed review later, use digital audio or video recording devices to capture the interview. Complement this with handwritten or typed notes to mark key points or non-verbal cues. If recording video, capturing relevant B-roll footage (such as sets or production activities) can enrich the material for later use [2].
Protocols
Pre-Interview
Before the interview, conduct background research on the producer and their projects to write targeted questions. An informal pre-interview conversation can help establish rapport and clarify focus areas, shaping the structure of your formal interview [2][3].
During Interview
During the interview, follow ethical protocols such as obtaining informed consent, respecting confidentiality, and managing time well. Stick to your semi-structured guide but allow flexibility for natural conversation flow [2][4].
Post-Interview
After the interview, review and transcribe recordings promptly. Reflect on insights gained and prepare follow-up questions if needed. Send a thank-you note and any clarifications or additional queries to maintain professional rapport [2][4].
Question Phrasing
Frame questions to be open-ended but specific enough to guide discussion. For example:
- "Can you describe your approach to selecting a film location and the factors influencing your decision?"
- "How do you balance creative vision with logistical realities in production planning?"
- "What research methods do you rely on during pre-production to support your role as producer?"
Avoid yes/no questions; instead, invite storytelling and elaboration [1][3][4].
Follow-Up
After the interview, analyze responses to identify areas requiring deeper exploration. Follow up with concise, respectful communications to clarify points or gather additional information. Maintaining good rapport can lead to future collaborations or referrals [2][4].
Following these guidelines can help you engage film producers effectively, aligning with research-driven filmmaking practices and professional interviewing protocols. It's important to note that conducting a research interview is similar to having an open conversation, and both participants have the chance to enjoy and learn from the experience.
Remember, when conducting research with human subjects, it's essential to obtain IRB approval beforehand. Consulting with an adviser can help with topics and question wording for the interview, and reiterating the purpose of the research and discussing confidentiality protocols at the beginning of the interview is important. Keeping questions neutral and avoiding leading or judgemental wording can help the interviewee feel more comfortable expressing their viewpoints.
Engaging in a senior thesis about education-and-self-development through filmmaking, I found the process of conducting research interviews with producers to be a profound experience for personal-growth and learning. As I delved into this research, I adhered to essential guidelines, such as choosing comfortable locations for interviews, recording conversations accurately, maintaining ethical protocols during the interview, and following up with questions for clarification. These steps were crucial in ensuring a fruitful and engaging conversation that allowed me to gain insights into the creative process and logistical realities of filmmaking.
