Producers may want to walk through the setting in advance or they may just appear at the appointed time with crew and dollies of equipment. Although the approach may seem casual, produces know their business and will not risk wasting expensive time and equipment by not being prepared. Although the mini-camera is not a large piece of machinery, sound equipment and lights are sometimes also needed. You can expect an interviewer, a camera operator and, probably, a crew member for lighting and sound. Don't be surprised, however, if only one person shows up to run the camera, ask the questions and do whatever else needs to be done.
Many stations have very tight budgets and run on skeleton staff.
It is not unusual for the camera to be aimed at the person's head and locked into position so it cannot move and so a camera operator is not necessary. The spokesperson hears the questions and conversations through an earpiece. The monitor in the studio often shows the picture of the spokesperson, whether the person is on the air or not. Spokespersons report feeling isolated and disconcerted by this setting. There are a number of steps you can take to be successful.