Essential Tips for Filming an Effective EPK Interview
Establishing a Clear Brief for EPK Production
Creating an Electronic Press Kit (EPK) is an essential task that provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the filmmaking process, capturing insights from the cast and crew. The effectiveness of an EPK hinges significantly on the clarity of the initial brief, which outlinesthe project's scope and direction. Whether the approach is to blend generic interviews with B-roll, craft a chaptered documentary detailing various stages of the shoot, or opt for a tone that's candid and fun or formal and structured, it’s crucial that everyone involved understands and agrees with the planned approach.
During a recent shoot, an unexpected shift from the producers required us to move from a standard EPK to a long-form documentary format. This change demanded that we keep shooting extensively, gathering a much larger volume of content than originally planned. The switch not only extended our shooting days but also required a revised approach to how we structured the edit. Now, the narrative needed more depth, with comprehensive interviews and voice-overs to weave through the detailed visual content, drawing inspiration from seminal works like The Making of Raiders of The Lost Ark.
This documentary, with its close-up captures using substantial 16mm film equipment, showcased an unobtrusive yet assertive filming technique that I found particularly enlightening. Spielberg’s ease in front of the camera, despite the heavy gear, underscored the importance of the crew’s discreet presence—a balance I strive to achieve in my own work. Part of adapting to the long-form approach involved discreetly eavesdropping on creative conversations, capturing spontaneous and candid moments without disrupting the creative process. Observing how those filmmakers gathered copious amounts of material to document such iconic moments reinforced my understanding of the importance of an exhaustive brief.
Having a well-defined and agreed-upon brief from the outset ensures that everyone's expectations are aligned, enabling precise planning and efficient management of resources. Establishing a clear and comprehensive brief, signed off by all stakeholders, is essential. It allows me to ensure that the behind-the-scenes content not only serves its promotional purpose but also holds potential as a special piece of history, enriching archives and potentially featuring on DVDs, social media channels, and television broadcasts. Moreover, when crafted with care and attention, the making of a film can stand as a film in its own right, much like the celebrated documentary The Making of Raiders of The Lost Ark—a testament to the power and importance of the filmmaking process itself.
1. Camera Setup: Lens Focus
Decide on the visual style of the interview by choosing whether the subject should look directly into the lens or slightly off-camera. Direct eye contact can create a personal and engaging feel, suitable for heartfelt or serious content. Conversely, an off-camera gaze can make the interview appear more natural and conversational, ideal for a relaxed and informal tone.
2. Interviews; Timing, Location and Going with the flow
Selecting the right time and place for interviews within your Electronic Press Kit is crucial to capturing high-quality content without disrupting the production flow. In a recent experience, I found that even seasoned actors can sometimes be in a hurry or unsure about how to best convey their thoughts during interviews. Like anyone faced with a camera and a set of questions, they occasionally need a bit of guidance to articulate their insights effectively. The producer encouraged me to go with the flow and not aggravate the talent, sometimes necessitating that we just get whatever we could at the moment.
This is where my role becomes crucial—not only to direct the flow of the conversation but also to ensure that the content aligns with the producers' requirements. A clear and detailed brief is essential in this context, as it outlines exactly what is needed from the interviews to support the PR aspects of the film. Choosing the right time and place for these interviews is equally important to ensure that the production flow isn’t disrupted and that the content captured truly reflects the quality and tone intended for the EPK. By adapting to the needs of the moment while keeping the overarching goals in mind, we can gather compelling and effective content that enhances the film's promotional efforts.
- During Downtime: Conducting interviews with actors during their breaks can be effective, but it’s essential to choose a location that’s quiet and removed from the active set. Utilising the set as a backdrop during lunch hours can add a dynamic visual element, but be mindful not to interfere with the ongoing production activities. Time is precious on set, and your EPK crew should avoid being a burden by setting up in inappropriate areas or during critical production moments.
- Post-Production: Arranging interviews after the principal photography has concluded can often yield more thoughtful and thorough responses. Participants aren't hurried or distracted by their immediate production responsibilities, allowing for a more relaxed and engaging interview. This timing also prevents the EPK team from capturing irrelevant footage or lingering on set unnecessarily, ensuring that time—and therefore budget—is used efficiently.
3. Avoid Specific References
When creating content for your Electronic Press Kit, keep in mind that certain film details, such as the title, might evolve during the post-production process. We learned this the hard way during editing when we found out that the producers had decided to change the movie title, which had been mentioned in almost every interview. To prevent such issues and maintain the longevity of your EPK content, avoid using the film’s title or other specific elements that could be subject to change. This approach will make your content adaptable and relevant for future promotional efforts.
4. Sound and Lighting Quality:
- Sound Management: Ensure your audio equipment is thoroughly tested before starting the interview. The location should be selected with minimal background noise to avoid unwanted disruptions. When using lapel mics, check for issues like loose wires that can affect sound quality or cause interference. Additionally, consider using a boom mic mounted on a C-stand for greater control over audio capture, especially in dynamic environments or when dealing with multiple interview subjects.
- Lighting: Good lighting is essential for a professional look. Whether you’re using natural light or professional equipment, the goal is to have even, flattering lighting without harsh shadows or overly bright highlights.
5. Prepare Your Questions:
Preparing questions in advance is crucial. This not only helps in maintaining the flow of the interview but also ensures that all critical aspects of the film and the roles of the interviewees are covered. However, be flexible enough to explore interesting avenues that may arise during the conversation.
6. Wardrobe and Background Considerations:
Advise your subjects on wardrobe choices that are suitable for on-camera appearances. It’s important to avoid overly bright patterns or logos that can distract the viewer. Similarly, be cautious about the branding and logos in the background. Opt for neutral or theme-related backgrounds that do not overshadow the subject. For instance, avoid conducting interviews in front of star trailers or areas with prominent branding, as these can detract from the focus of the interview. A well-chosen, themed backdrop related to the film can significantly enhance the context and depth of the interview.
7. Review and Consent
Finally, review the footage for quality and consistency. Ensure that all participants are comfortable with the content shared and secure consent for its use in all forms of media.
Key Takeaways for EPK Interview Success Some default text here
Shooting an EPK interview requires attention to detail across various elements. From technical setups like sound and lighting to the nuances of scheduling and question preparation, every aspect contributes to the creation of a compelling and informative piece. By following these guidelines, you can produce an EPK that effectively supports your film’s promotional strategies while respecting the dynamic environment of film production.
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