As a freelance filmmaker, I understand the significance of capturing the right look and feel in every video I produce. That's why I have adopted techniques to record interviews in two styles - looking into the lens (speaking directly to the audience) or the more conventional way of looking away from the lens towards the interviewer.

Speaking to the Viewer

Looking straight into a camera lens is not a natural way for people to share their stories and experiences. Our normal tendencies as social beings drive us to communicate face-to-face, making eye contact and using gestures to express our message. Directly speaking into a camera lens can be intimidating and unnatural. However, I have mastered a technique where the interviewee appears to be looking into the lens, but they are actually speaking to a person. This technique requires some training for the interviewer, and I am fully equipped to provide it. This approach makes the interviewee feel comfortable and confident, allowing them to be themselves and deliver their best performance.

Eye contact is a powerful tool in video interviews, and it can greatly impact the audience's perception of the subject. When a person looks directly into the camera lens, it creates a direct connection with the audience and helps establish trust and confidence. The direct gaze conveys openness, honesty, and sincerity, making the subject seem more trustworthy and confident. The audience feels as if they are being directly addressed.

Viewer is a Witness

On the other hand, when a person looks away from the lens towards the person asking the questions, it makes the viewer feel like a firsthand witness to the conversation or testimonial.

In my work as a freelance filmmaker, I collaborate with my clients to determine the best approach for their project. Whether it's direct eye contact with the audience or a more conversational look away from the lens, I ensure that the end result meets the client's expectations.