Create a talking heads video

1. Design a plot for your video that includes an opener, a moment of conflict, a climax, and a resolution.

For example, in a talking-head video for a new product, the video could introduce the speakers (opener), then talk about issues before the product was created (moment of conflict), how they came to find a solution for it (climax), before showing the end product (resolution).

2. Decide whether the talking head will feature one or several people - depending on your product, the number of people available, your budget, and the plot you have in mind.

For example, if your talking heads video is about a new soap, having multiple people testifying how it resolved their acne will be powerful. On the other hand, if you’re putting forward a team member’s expertise, they’re the only one who needs to be featured.

3. Write a loose script for the video so speakers know what they need to discuss, including talking points and questions to help direct their answers if necessary.

If your talking heads features several people, prepare them ahead of time by sending them the list of talking points so what they want to say ahead of recording.

4. Record your talking heads video in chunks to give each speaker time to think about each talking point, as well as keep on track with your overarching plot.

If you are recording several people, you might find it helpful to use questions to guide answers rather than just highlighting the talking point.

5. Film B-roll footage - footage of the product in use, or of the speakers walking to work - to switch from the main footage and keep the attention of the viewers.

If you are limited in terms of location, you can film the speaker getting ready to be interviewed, adjusting their microphone etc.

6. Use a tool like Rev or Sonix to transcribe your recording with timestamps.

7. Watch the uncut video and highlight and copy the best responses in your timestamped transcript.

Rearrange the highlighted quotes into the previously designed plot you designed in the first step, with your opener, moment of conflict, climax, and resolution.

8. Edit your video in the order of the new script, using video editing software, such as Premiere Pro or iMovie.

9. Record voiceovers or add on-screen text if necessary to patch any plot holes in your video.

For example, if there isn’t a suitable segue between two distinct points, or if a crucial piece of data wasn’t recorded during filming.