Mahnaz Afshar during the premiere of the movie “My Name is Josy” in Frankfurt

Some think they need to talk to the camera during an interview. But unless you’re asked specifically to do so—(a “shout out” directly to the camera, usually at the end of an interview)—talking to the camera actually excludes the reporter from the conversation. It can come across as rude, and does not make for a relaxed, engaging interview. You want to be there with the reporter, talking with them, listening to and understanding their questions, and answering in a natural manner. You should also answer honestly. That is, if you have no idea what’s being asked, there’s no point “trying” to answer. It just winds up looking like you don’t know what you’re talking about. Instead, keep it light, find an organic way to say you don’t know, and move onto something else.

October 6, 2021 | 12:57 pm