Approx. 5-minute read
If you’ve been invited to take part in a patient story video, it’s natural to have questions about what the filming day will involve. This guide explains what to expect, how to prepare, and how we work to make the experience comfortable and respectful.
At Dream Engine, we’ve produced patient story videos for hospitals, healthcare providers, medical researchers and pharmaceutical organisations across Australia. Whether filming takes place at your home, in a hospital or at another location, we’ll guide you through the process from beginning to end.
As part of our healthcare video production services, we regularly film patient story videos that help others understand the impact of treatments, procedures and personal health journeys through genuine, first-hand experiences.
What Happens During a Patient Story Video?
Be Yourself
What we’re most interested in is your story, in your own words. The authenticity of a patient story video is what makes it meaningful.
The interview won’t feel like a formal question-and-answer session. It’s more of a relaxed conversation. We’ll ask open-ended questions to guide the discussion, but we won’t give you a script or ask you to memorise anything. It’s perfectly fine to think about your experience beforehand, but there’s no need to prepare detailed answers.
You don’t need to worry about saying everything perfectly. If you lose your train of thought or would like to answer a question again, that’s completely normal. We regularly record multiple takes and edit the interview afterwards to create a natural conversation.
Just speak from your own experience. That’s what matters most.
If We’re Filming at Your Home
If we’re visiting your home to film, we want to make the process smooth and unobtrusive.
We’ll always ask your permission before filming in any area, and we’ll work with you to find a space that feels comfortable. The crew is usually just one or two people, and we’ll be respectful of your time, space and privacy. We’ll avoid moving things around unnecessarily and will leave everything exactly as we found it.
If you have pets, children or other things happening around the house, that’s completely fine. We’ll work around whatever you need.
Your Privacy and Comfort Come First
Your comfort is always our priority. We’ll only film what you’re happy to share, and you’re welcome to pause, skip a question or take a break at any point.
Your video will only be used with the appropriate permissions agreed between you and the organisation you’re working with. If something doesn’t feel right, simply let us know. You’re always in control of what you choose to share.
What to Wear
There’s no need to dress up unless you’d like to. The best approach is to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and like yourself.
If you’re unsure, solid colours generally look better on camera than busy patterns or clothing with large logos. The most important thing is that you feel relaxed and confident.
What Happens on the Day of Filming?
Here’s how a typical filming day works:
- We’ll arrive and introduce ourselves.
- We’ll have a quick look around to choose the best place to film.
- While we set up the cameras and lighting, you can relax.
- We’ll record a friendly, conversational interview.
- We’ll film some additional footage of you in your everyday environment to help illustrate your story.
- Once everything is complete, we’ll pack up and leave everything exactly as we found it.
Although we may be on-site for a couple of hours to allow time for setup, filming and packing down, your actual interview is often much shorter. Throughout the day we’ll explain what we’re doing and make sure you’re comfortable before moving on to the next stage.
Can I Have Someone With Me?
Absolutely. If you’d like a partner, family member or friend to be there for support, you’re very welcome to have them nearby. Some people find this reassuring, and we’re happy to accommodate whatever helps you feel most comfortable.
Final Thoughts
We’re grateful to everyone who chooses to share their story. Patient story videos often help other people feel informed, reassured and less alone as they go through similar experiences.
To learn more about our experience producing healthcare and patient story videos, explore our healthcare video production services.
If you have any questions before the filming day, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to make the experience as straightforward, respectful and comfortable as possible.
Patient Story Video Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to prepare answers before the interview?
No. We’ll guide you with open-ended questions and keep the conversation relaxed. There’s no need to write or memorise answers beforehand.
What if I make a mistake or forget what I wanted to say?
That’s completely normal. We regularly record multiple takes and edit everything together afterwards, so there’s no pressure to get every answer perfect the first time.
Can I review or approve the video before it is published?
If your organisation’s approval process includes participant review, we’ll work through that with your contact person. Your story will only be used with the appropriate permissions.
What if there are topics I don’t want to discuss?
That’s completely fine. You can skip any question or stop the interview at any time. You’ll never be asked to discuss anything you’re uncomfortable sharing.
How long does filming usually take?
We’re often on-site for around two hours to allow for setup, filming and packing down, but your interview is usually much shorter.
Can a family member or friend be with me during filming?
Yes. You’re welcome to have someone there for support if it helps you feel more comfortable.
