For a lot of people (including some of our clients), being on camera is their worst nightmare.
That’s why you’ll usually find me behind one.
We get that it can be a little intimidating but it doesn’t have to be.
Between video conferences, live streaming, and marketing videos – being on camera is becoming more and more common. It allows you to connect with your audience on a human level and communicate emotions.
It’s also better for demonstrating how to use tangible products, unlike animated videos with voiceovers.
So today, we’re sharing some tips to help you get more comfortable being on camera.
Tip 1: Practice what you’re going to say.
Being on camera is a lot less scary if you prepare yourself first. Going in blind is an easy way to make yourself even more nervous in an already uncomfortable situation.
Make sure to practice your message out loud as much as possible before the shoot. Saying it, instead of just reading it, builds something like muscle memory that will help out when it comes time to film.
The more confident you are in what you’re saying, the more confident you’ll feel in front of the camera.
But if public speaking isn’t your strong suit, we can also use a teleprompter that displays over the camera lens. This allows you to read off of your script while still maintaining “eye contact” with your viewer.
Tip 2: Have a glass of water nearby.
Nerves can make your mouth dry. Not only is that uncomfortable, but it can also sound a little weird on camera. Having some water to sip on right before shooting always helps.
Tip 3: Slow down.
This is a big one.
Most people tend to talk really fast when they’re on camera. Probably because they want to get it over with. But it’s important not to rush.
Fast-talking can be even harder to understand on camera than it is in person. Words and sentences get jumbled together, and you can really lose your audience. It also makes things harder once it’s time to edit.
Take a deep breath and try to consciously slow down. Don’t be afraid to take pauses either.
Believe it or not, forcing yourself to talk slowly will also help calm you down. Fast-talking can bring a lot of nervous energy. So taking the time to slow down will help both you as the talent and us as your video editors.
Tip 4: Stand behind something.
For some of our more camera-shy clients, standing behind something can help make them more comfortable.
It sometimes helps to be behind a table or a podium so that it gives a little separation. Putting something between you and the camera adds a sense of security.
Tip 5: Don’t worry about small mistakes.
Making a small mistake, like stumbling over your words a bit or missing a line, isn’t the big deal people make it out to be.
First of all, your viewers don’t know your script, so they won’t know if you missed something. Second, some of these mistakes are easy to fix in post.
This is why we’ll have you repeat lines or do multiple takes. We can edit out mistakes and use B-roll or graphics to cover up any obvious cuts.
In scenarios where we can’t edit, like a live stream, small mistakes can be seen as a good thing. Getting stuck on a word or two can help make you seem more human to your audience.
We hope these five tips ease your fears, even if only a little bit. In the end, the best way to get over being camera shy is to just get in front of the camera. The more you do it, the easier it’ll be.