While interviews are largely concerned with “digging” into the subject’s mind, descriptive techniques are one of the best ways to enhance the way it eventually reads. Done well, it becomes a major asset for your piece (the same way as a practical writing software) – one that’s not necessarily sourced from the subject’s mouth.
Using colorful description is not the main goal of an interview. Rather, it’s an effective tool that will allow your writing to make a stronger impact on your readers. When employing this instrument, you serve as their eyes, ears and other senses, feeding them information they otherwise wouldn’t get from reading a transcript of your exchange.
Notice things about the room. What decorations adorn it? How is your interview subject dressed? What food is set on the table? Look for minute characteristics and subtle things. What information do they tell about the person your are talking to?
Here’s the thing to watch out for, though. While you serve as your readers’ senses, you are not their brain. As such, keep your details in the realm of observation, rather than making any sort of conclusion. You’re there to describe, not pass off judgment, so pick your words carefully when painting a more colorful setting.
