The recommended equipment for conducting community media video
interviews includes a camcorder, tripod, microphone and headset.

It's always a good idea to test your equipment with the microphone
before conducting the interview.
Shoot a few seconds with sound and play it back to make sure
everything is working okay.

The most important thing to remember is to make sure your interviewee
is as relaxed as possible. If you have a two person team,
one member should chat with the interviewee while
the other sets up the equipment.

For editing, you will need a few extra seconds of recorded tape
before and after the interview.
It is a good idea to simply start recording during the preliminary
chat and you will probably be able to gently begin the videotaping
without making a big fuss. Don't try a professional countdown : )

Interview Hints (includes practice exercises)

Simple Video

Framing

Sample Release Form