Talking to the Air
Posted on Sep 11, 2024 by Pro Moviemaker
For super-direct interviews, the new Voxbox Air can add a profound edge to your films
The powerful emotional connection a viewer feels when an interviewee talks straight down the lens can’t be underestimated. It feels more direct, honest and has a dramatic effect when done well. That’s why so many modern TV shows do it.
But the problem is getting people to address their answers towards a camera lens pointed right at them. This can feel uncomfortable, which comes across in the footage.
Many TV production companies have now rigged up systems with shoot-through mirrors and large lens hoods so the interviewee can talk directly to a reflected image of the interviewer.
Portable versions of these are available commercially, and British company Primelight Design offers the popular Voxbox Pro Mark II Kit, which comes in a hard case and can be kept fully assembled inside for fast use. As demand increases, but many filmmakers want a lighter option for their smaller cameras, the Voxbox Air has now been introduced. This is cheaper and more compact, enabling interviews in tight spaces with small crews and minimal equipment.
It can be set up in a couple of minutes without any tools or cumbersome adapters. Its two-way mirror system allows the subject to maintain natural eye contact with both the interviewer and audience.
Its foldable, lightweight construction uses a beamsplitter to ensure the subject speaks directly into the lens. But the mirror system means they can see the face of the interviewer in front of the lens itself. This helps the subject relax for a smoother conversation, while engaging the audience with organic eye contact.
The side mirror can be taken out, giving the interviewer a different position away from the camera.
The Voxbox Air is attached to standard 15mm rails, much like a matte box. Then just attach the side mirror and move it to the correct position, and you’re ready to shoot. If your rig doesn’t have 15mm rails, the kit comes with a 16mm receiver to attach it to a standard light stand in front of your camera.
At the end of the shoot, the Voxbox Air’s foldable design takes up minimal space, and its carbon-fibre reinforced polymer frame provides strength without adding too much weight. The kit comes in at 3.9kg/8.6lb, including the bag, and you could take it on flights as hand luggage if necessary.
The Voxbox Air also doubles as a teleprompter, with the included tablet holder clipping into place on top of the box. The kit also accepts standard 4x4in and 4×5.6in filters in trays, which are included. At just £1554/$1713, it’s a great investment if you want to take your interviews to the next level.
This feature was first published in the September/October 2024 issue of Pro Moviemaker.
