On location
Set up tripod (make sure it is level on the tripod)
Take camera + microphone
Screw directional microphone on top of camera – plug microphone into camera or attach tie microphone to clothing of person to be interviewed
Insert SD card into camera
Put camera (+ microphone) on a tripod (make sure the camera is level on the top of the camera)
Connect camera to the mains (possibly via extension lead)
Set up tripod + camera
Distance to interviewee approx. 2 metres
Positioning to the right of the interviewer, at an angle, so that the review screen is still visible to the interviewer
Camera at eye level of respondent
Framing – make sure that there is enough head and arm space and background (do not zoom in or out during the interview)
The rule of thumb is 2/3 (left or right) and 1/3 (top).
Hands visible.
If the respondent is on the left, he/she should not look to the left (out of focus). Adjust your position as interviewer so that the respondent is looking at you (i.e. not directly into the camera).
Make sure there is enough light (preferably during the day). Make sure the light falls on the face. Do not film in backlight.
Switch the microphone on (the light turns green).
Run test recording
Listen back (with headphones for sound check)
Record interview and end