1. Preparation is Key:
* Research, Research, Research: Understand your subject inside and out. Know their background, their accomplishments, their controversies, and their perspectives. This builds trust and allows you to ask deeper, more insightful questions.
* Outline Your Story: Have a clear understanding of the narrative you're trying to tell. Identify the key themes, plot points, and characters you want to explore. This will help you focus your questions.
* Develop a Question List (But Don't Be Married To It): A structured list provides a framework, but be flexible and willing to deviate based on the interviewee's responses. Categorize your questions (e.g., background, personal experiences, opinions, reflections).
* Know Your Interviewee's Expertise: Tailor your questions to their specific knowledge and experiences. Don't ask them about things they wouldn't know.
* Consider Your Target Audience: What do they need to know to understand the story? Frame your questions to provide context and clarity for viewers.
2. Crafting Effective Questions:
* Open-Ended Questions: These are the foundation of a good interview. They encourage the interviewee to tell a story and share their perspective in their own words. Avoid questions that can be answered with a simple "yes" or "no."
* Instead of: "Did you like working on that project?"
* Ask: "What was your experience working on that project?" or "Tell me about your favorite part of working on that project."
* Avoid Leading Questions: Don't suggest the answer in your question. This can bias the response and compromise the integrity of your film.
* Instead of: "You must have been angry when that happened, right?"
* Ask: "How did you feel when that happened?"
* Use "How" and "Why" Questions: These encourage explanation and reflection.
* "How did that event change your perspective?"
* "Why do you think that decision was made?"
* Ask for Specific Examples and Anecdotes: Abstract concepts are difficult to visualize. Ask for concrete examples to bring the story to life.
* "Can you tell me about a specific instance where you witnessed this?"
* "Describe a time when you felt [emotion] because of this."
* Be Clear and Concise: Avoid jargon or overly complicated language. Make sure your questions are easy to understand.
* One Question at a Time: Don't overload the interviewee with multiple questions in one sentence.
* Use the "Tell me more about that" Technique: When the interviewee touches on something interesting, prompt them to elaborate.
* Revisit Topics: Don't be afraid to return to earlier topics later in the interview to get a different perspective or clarify something.
3. During the Interview: Active Listening and Follow-Up:
* Listen Attentively: This is the most important part. Pay close attention to what the interviewee is saying, not just formulating your next question.
* Show Genuine Interest: Make eye contact, nod, and use verbal cues to show that you're engaged.
* Follow Up Questions: Use the interviewee's answers as a springboard for deeper exploration. Ask clarifying questions, challenge assumptions, and dig beneath the surface.
* "You mentioned [topic]. Could you elaborate on that?"
* "What do you mean by [term]?"
* "How did that affect you personally?"
* Be Comfortable with Silence: Don't rush to fill every pause. Sometimes, silence allows the interviewee to reflect and provide a more thoughtful response.
* Don't Interrupt (Unless Absolutely Necessary): Let the interviewee finish their thought.
* Be Empathetic: Try to understand the interviewee's perspective, even if you don't agree with it.
* Be Respectful: Treat the interviewee with courtesy and professionalism, even if you're asking difficult questions.
* Don't Be Afraid to Ask "Stupid" Questions: Sometimes, asking a seemingly obvious question can reveal important information that others have overlooked.
* Adapt and Improvise: Be prepared to deviate from your prepared questions based on the flow of the conversation.
* Be Aware of Non-Verbal Cues: Pay attention to the interviewee's body language and facial expressions. These can provide valuable insights.
4. Difficult Questions:
* Ease Into Sensitive Topics: Start with less controversial questions to build trust and rapport.
* Frame Questions Carefully: Choose your words carefully to avoid being accusatory or judgmental.
* Acknowledge the Difficulty: Let the interviewee know that you understand the topic is sensitive.
* "I know this is a difficult topic, but I'm hoping you can share your perspective..."
* Give the Interviewee an "Out": Let them know they don't have to answer any question they're uncomfortable with.
* "Feel free to decline to answer any question that makes you uncomfortable."
* Be Prepared for Resistance: The interviewee may be reluctant to answer certain questions. Be patient and persistent, but don't be aggressive.
* Respect Boundaries: If the interviewee is clearly uncomfortable, move on to a different topic.
5. Ending the Interview:
* Thank the Interviewee: Express your sincere gratitude for their time and insights.
* Ask if They Have Anything Else to Add: Give them an opportunity to share anything they feel is important that you haven't covered.
* Ask Who Else You Should Talk To: This can lead to other valuable sources and perspectives.
* Follow Up: After the interview, send a thank-you note and offer to answer any questions they may have.
Example Question Starters:
* "Tell me about..."
* "Describe..."
* "What was it like when..."
* "What do you remember about..."
* "How did that make you feel..."
* "Can you explain..."
* "Why do you think..."
* "What's the most important thing you want people to know about..."
* "What was the turning point..."
By following these guidelines, you can ask great documentary interview questions that will elicit compelling stories, insightful perspectives, and ultimately, a more engaging and informative film. Good luck!