In part one of this master series, documentary director Marina Zenovich gives an overview of the principles of interviewing and how to approach the process.

Key Insights

Interviewing is an art, and it is at the core of documentary filmmaking.
You need to be fully engaged when conducting an interview.
Use personal forms of communication to secure an interview, such as calling or meeting in person; email and texting are not sufficient.
Prepare and be rigorous in your research, but try to keep the interview spontaneous and conversational.
Treat the interview like a date; hearing the responses for the first time will keep the interview alive.
Listening is your greatest asset; when people feel like they’re being heard, they’re more likely to disclose information.
Interviews should be personal. Make the environment as intimate and safe as possible.
If someone seems nervous, reflect their emotions back to them. Empathy goes a long way.

Marina Zenovich

Filmmaker

Marina Zenovich is an Emmy award-winning filmmaker whose films have been praised for their powerful storytelling and their thoughtful, sensitive approach to difficult subjects and controversial people. more...