How much do you plan your documentary interviews before rolling?
I’ve been thinking about how much structure is actually useful during documentary interviews. Too many prepared questions can make the conversation feel stiff, but going in with nothing can leave you digging through hours of footage later.
Janeson Films got me thinking about this while looking at different approaches to documentary production. I’m wondering where other filmmakers draw the line between having a solid interview plan and simply following wherever the conversation goes.
Do you prepare a detailed list of questions, keep a few themes in mind, or mostly let the subject lead once the cameras are rolling?
u/Weary_Lingonberry836 — 7 days ago