Former NBC News producer shares tips for TV interviews

Here are five logistical tips to remember when you’re working with television crews:

Remember who makes you look good.

This is the first and golden rule.

The reporter and producer are not the only people involved in this process. Be courteous to the camera crew and any engineers involved. They are the ones who will make sure your shot is well lit and flattering. Plus, it simply shows good manners.

2. Allow time for set up.

When doing a sit-down interview, allow up to an hour for the crew to set up. Many crews and producers will carefully light the shot and move items on the set (be it in your office, a conference room, or someplace else) to make the shot look more interesting. They’ll also test the microphones. The more time you give them to make adjustments, the better your shot will look and sound.

3. Consider the location.

Think about where the interview is taking place. If you’re working with a local crew, a lot of times, you’ll be standing up and the interview will be done fairly quickly without much setup. So consider your background. Offer them a location that says something about your organization.