Keep It Real: When Location Interviews Win Over Studios

Posted on April 13, 2025 by saintlouisvideo

In today’s media-saturated landscape, authenticity is the new currency. Consumers are more skeptical than ever of overly produced content that feels disconnected from real experiences. For businesses and organizations looking to connect meaningfully with their audience, location-based interviews have emerged as a powerful tool to convey honesty, culture, and credibility—sometimes even outperforming traditional studio setups.

The Power of Authentic Environments

While studio interviews offer a controlled setting with optimal lighting and acoustics, they can sometimes come across as overly polished or generic. A location interview—conducted in an office, facility, job site, or other real-world setting—immediately lends context and believability to the story. Audiences get a glimpse into the working environment, which helps establish trust and reinforce brand identity. Whether it’s an architect discussing a design at a construction site or a healthcare provider sharing a patient story in a clinic, the environment becomes a character in the narrative.

Capturing Candidness and Comfort

Many subjects feel more relaxed and natural in familiar surroundings. Studio lighting, large cameras, and boom mics can intimidate non-actors. But when someone is interviewed in their own space—be it a conference room, lab, or shop floor—they’re more likely to speak comfortably and confidently. That realness translates directly on camera, creating testimonials and interviews that feel human, heartfelt, and trustworthy.

Flexibility and Visual Impact

Location interviews also provide a dynamic range of visuals. B-roll opportunities abound, offering engaging cutaway shots that help illustrate the message and maintain audience interest. Instead of adding artificial props or fabricated backdrops, your brand’s real story is framed by its own environment. It’s not just what’s said that matters—it’s what’s seen.

When Location Isn’t Ideal

Of course, there are moments when studios win: controlled sound, professional lighting, custom backdrops, and privacy. Studio setups are often the best option for scripted videos, training content, or interviews that require numerous takes. However, for marketing-driven interviews, customer testimonials, or employee stories—especially when relatability is key—a location shoot often delivers more impact.

Hybrid Approaches: The Best of Both Worlds

At St Louis Video, we often recommend a hybrid strategy—interview on location, then bring select elements into the studio for follow-up visuals, voiceovers, or explainer segments. This ensures continuity in quality while maximizing the authenticity of the message.

Why Choose St Louis Video for Your Interview Production?

At St Louis Video, we understand the nuance of choosing the right setting for every interview. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we offer the equipment, experience, and creative insight necessary for high-impact interviews—whether on-site, in-studio, or both.

We provide:

Full-service studio and location video and photography
Expert editing and post-production
Licensed drone pilots for aerial context and dynamic visuals
Custom-built interview setups with lighting, sound, and camera operators
Private studio lighting designed for intimate sit-downs
A studio large enough to accommodate props and set pieces
AI-enhanced media services for maximum efficiency and adaptability
Expertise in repurposing your photography and video branding to reach broader audiences
In-depth knowledge of all media file types and styles

And yes—we can fly drones indoors.

Since 1982, St Louis Video has collaborated with countless businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies throughout the St. Louis area. From testimonial interviews to brand stories, we bring your message to life—authentically and effectively.

Let’s keep it real. Let’s make your next video production resonate.

Want help deciding between a studio or location shoot for your next interview?
Contact St Louis Video today—we’ll help you find the perfect fit.

314-913-5626
stlouisvideos@gmail.com

Should You Script Testimonials? What Experts Say

Posted on March 12, 2025 by saintlouisvideo

In the world of corporate video production, testimonial videos have become a cornerstone of marketing strategy. A well-crafted testimonial can build trust, enhance credibility, and provide social proof to potential customers. However, a common question arises in the production process: Should testimonial videos be scripted?

Spontaneous responses often contain genuine emotion that resonates more strongly with viewers than a carefully crafted script.

The Argument for Scripting Testimonials

Some professionals argue that scripting testimonial videos ensures a polished and coherent message. Here are a few benefits of scripting:

Consistency in Messaging – A script ensures that key selling points and brand messaging are clearly communicated. This prevents testimonials from veering off-topic or becoming too long-winded.
Professionalism – A structured script can make a video appear more polished and well-produced, giving the impression of a high-quality production that aligns with a company’s brand standards.
Legal and Compliance Requirements – In industries that require careful wording due to legal considerations, a script can help avoid liability issues and ensure accuracy.
Time Efficiency – Testimonial recordings can be streamlined when participants know exactly what to say, reducing production time and post-production editing.

The Argument Against Scripting Testimonials

On the other hand, many video production experts advocate for an unscripted, natural approach. Here’s why:

Authenticity – Customers and clients value authenticity. When testimonials feel overly scripted, they may come across as rehearsed and insincere, diminishing their impact.
Emotional Connection – Spontaneous responses often contain genuine emotion that resonates more strongly with viewers than a carefully crafted script.
Engagement and Relatability – Viewers are more likely to trust and connect with a person who speaks naturally and in their own words rather than reading off a script.
Improvisation Leads to Unique Insights – An unscripted testimonial allows clients to express their experiences in a personal and memorable way that might not be captured in a rigid script.

The Best of Both Worlds: A Guided Approach

Rather than choosing between fully scripted or entirely spontaneous testimonials, the most effective approach is often a hybrid method:

Provide Talking Points – Instead of a verbatim script, offer key points that guide the testimonial in the right direction while allowing natural expression.
Pre-Interview Discussions – Before filming, discuss the main message with the participant so they feel prepared but not overly rehearsed.
Multiple Takes – Allow multiple takes to capture the best version of the testimonial while keeping the delivery natural and engaging.
Skilled Editing – In post-production, skilled editors can refine the footage to highlight the most compelling moments while maintaining authenticity.

How St Louis Video Can Help You Capture the Perfect Testimonial

At St Louis Video, we specialize in crafting compelling testimonial videos that align with your brand’s marketing goals. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we have the right equipment and creative expertise to ensure successful image acquisition.

Our services include:

Full-service studio and location video and photography – Whether in our fully equipped studio or at a client’s location, we provide high-quality production environments.
Editing and post-production – We fine-tune testimonials to enhance their authenticity while ensuring a professional final product.
Licensed drone pilots – We can incorporate aerial shots for dynamic testimonials.
Customizable productions – We tailor each project to fit diverse media requirements, repurposing photography and video branding for maximum traction.
Private studio lighting and set design – Our setup is perfect for small productions, allowing for well-lit, professional testimonial recordings.
Specialized drone operation, including indoor flights – We can create unique and engaging shots that elevate testimonial videos.

Since 1982, St Louis Video has worked with businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies in the St. Louis area to produce high-quality marketing photography and video. Whether you prefer a scripted approach, an organic testimonial, or a mix of both, our experienced team will ensure your testimonial videos effectively engage and convert your audience.

314-913-5626
stlouisvideos@gmail.com

st louis video | video production services | post production | studio

Posted on August 15, 2013 by saintlouisvideo

Much of this video was shot on location. There were a few studio shots, mostly of products. We captured stills and video movement to allow the editor and producer more flexibility in post production. All four productions were shot in a day. The day was perfect because of the shot list and approved script.