Increase your confidence on camera with these 10 tricks
You've put up your lighting and clicked [rec] on your preferred camera then... you couldn't be more nervous. When you're filming on your own, freezing up, fumbling on your own words or simply feeling uneasy on cameras is extremely normal.
Building your confidence in cameras is essential to create an impact on our video-forward world, both in and out of the screen. "Being comfortable in front of the camera is a talent that will be useful in any aspect of your life," according to the entrepreneur and expert in productivity Ali Abdaal. "I've discovered that the fact that I've done the training to talk to the camera is really boosting my confidence and self-confidence in the real world too."
Ten stress-tested methods to make you be (and look) more confident in front of the camera
It's completely normal to be nervous at the thought of directly talking to camera. But there are numerous tips and tricks that can help you overcome those obstacles and ease your anxiety. Before your next screen appearance, read our tips on how to master your camera presence in every phase of film production.
Before your shooting
1. Create the atmosphere
If you're not surrounded by other people's energy to tap into and you're feeling a little low-energy. A good listen to your favourite music that pumps you up will give your mood a little nudge, which will naturally boost your vibe while you are seated to record. It's a bonus if you can join in - it's double duty in letting you loosen up and warm up that voicebox.
While you're at it make sure you clear your space from distracting factors. It's astonishing how an accidental Slack message or phone call can distract you from your level. Locate a quiet spot within your office or home, and set that tech so that it doesn't disturb your work in order to ensure that your focus is completely while recording.
2. You can make it look attractive
Set your background put in place. Check your backdrop for lighting, color, and overall aesthetics. Locate a space within your office or home which is visually appealing, yet not distracting. There's nothing better than a corner near a bookcase or a similar cozy backdrop that can add dimension without distracting from the real star: you!
Dress comfortably, but keep it basic. It is a rule of thumb that the solid color is best for a cameras. However, you must choose clothing makes you feel the most comfortable. It will help you avoid twitching about with your collar, or bouncing around in your chair.
3. Prepare what you're planning to be saying.
It's likely that your mileage will vary in terms of what kind of prep you'll want to complete prior to sitting in front of the camera. Some people believe that a complete script is required to be confident recording. For others, a simple logline is enough to stay in the right direction.
Every person is different, however it is recommended to create an outline in bullets of your message to allow your speech to flow naturally and without losing your way or hiding your most important points.
"A majority of YouTubers prefer to script out their videos exactly to the letter," says YouTuber Vanessa Lau. "Over the years, I've discovered is the most effective method is a bullet point method. It means I'm aware of at least a few clear focal points. And because I'm able to easily identify them on my script, it's harder for me to get off track."
4. Practice with the camera off
Many find that the easy act of turning your camera's on may cause high heart rates and sweaty palms. To minimize this feeling make sure you run your outline with your camera before pressing record. It will not only help ease you into the actual act of recording, it can also assist you to identify any problems with your outline so that you're able to resolve the issue prior to rolling tape.
During your shoot
5. Talk to one person
Anyone who is a speechwriter or public speaker of any kind will know that prior to preparing to address any audience is crucial to understand the exact audience you're talking to. If you're making an update video for your friends or recording video content to upload to TikTok having a solid idea of the people who are paying attention - and the way you'll speak to them - can give you the highest possibility of getting their attention.
When you've identified the people who will be watching your video and you know who your audience is, be more specific and consult a confidence coach Chalene Johnson advises talking to just one individualwhen making the video. "Whenever I'm making a video and I'm not thinking about every person who are gonna watch it but I focus on just one person," she says. "It's just so much easier to be authentic and feel comfortable."
6. You can try an Teleprompter
Even as a seasoned pro speaking in a manner that doesn't have any sort of cueing can be incredibly difficult. However, using cards or looking at the laptop's screen could cause a disconnect with your camera, which can create distractions for both you and your audience. A teleprompter is a great option to ensure that your recording is secure without requiring card-shuffling or rote memory. This'll help keep your bullet point in the forefront of mind, whether you're making a professional speech or simply a team update.
7. Make fear into excitement
However well you prepare, there will be a bit of anxiety during recording will be present. In order to channel this energy, we suggest reframing these physical manifestations of anxiety as exuberance. As those feelings - like an higher heart rate, tightness in the chest and throat - are all associated to both feelings, tell your brain and body that the feelings you're experiencing occur because you're exuberant to speak and rather than being afraid. (You may be amazed at how effective it is.)
8. Mind your body language and eyeline
In real world, body language is key to communicating confidence. It is important to keep track of the three elements listed above when you film your next video.
Be aware of your line of sight. When you're talking to your camera, it's, well, a little odd. Your eyes are likely to wander about the room, or gaze down at your hands. Do your best, though you must maintain your eyes in contact with the camera in order to keep your viewer(s) engaged.
Use your hands. When filming in an upright position to increase the impact of your film by moving your hands around the central square of your body when you talk. This adds energy to the final film and keep you from looking unnatural.
Speak with a smile. A great way to take your on-camera energy up a gear is to raise the corners of your mouth when delivering your message. This doesn't need to be a full smile, but just smile a little while you deliver your message could make a huge difference. "It appears fake at first," says Ali Abdaal. "But it actually does come across as more assured."
9. Reduce it
It's perfectly normal to finish your film in the shortest time possible. But that impulse can result in rushing through your story or looking harried in front of the camera. Remember to breathe (even doing a short breathing exercise prior to recording could be helpful!) And try speaking slow so that you don't overdo it with your words.
After your shoot
10. Give yourself an uncritical review
Like any skill, building on-camera confidence is all about practicing, practicing, and practice. Just like an athlete reviewing the game footage, we suggest watching back your video to discover what you may want to change as well as the things you enjoyed regarding your recent video. Make sure to record the manner of speaking or gestures that could distract the future viewers. But do not forget to be nice towards yourself. This is an opportunity to improve your abilities, not beat yourself up!
One final word on camera confidence
If you follow the above tips, it will send you well on your way to the state of confidence in your camera Do not worry about being flawless. Everyone has a unique screen presence - learning what yours is (and accept that it is there!) is among the most effective strategies to increase your self-confidence in the future. Now get out there and make your next video a success!