Improve your camera confidence by using these 10 tricks
You've put up your lighting, hit [rec] the camera you prefer then... you couldn't feel more scared. Even when filming something alone, freezing up, fumbling in your speech, or simply feeling uneasy on cameras is extremely normal.
Building your confidence in camera is key to making an impact in our video-forward world, both from the inside and outside. "Being confident on camera is an ability that can bleed into every part of your life" according to entrepreneur and productivity expert Ali Abdaal. "I've discovered that the fact that I've put in the reps to talk to the camera is really boosting my confidence in real life too."
Ten stress-tested methods to make you make you feel (and appear) more confident on camera
We'll be honest - it's perfectly normal to feel uncomfortable at the thought of directly talking to camera. However, there are plenty of strategies and techniques that could help you overcome those obstacles and calm your nerves. Ahead of your next onscreen appearance, read our advice on how you can make sure you are on camera throughout the entire production process.
Before your shoot
1. Create the atmosphere
When you don't have the energy of others to tap into and you're feeling somewhat apathetic. Listening to your favorite tunes gives your mood a little nudge, which can naturally increase your mood when you sit down to record. It's a bonus if you can perform a song - it'll serve double duty to loosen you to relax and acclimate your voicebox.
While you're at it make sure you clear your space from distracting factors. It's incredible how an unintentional Slack ping or phone call can distract you from your game. Choose a peaceful spot in your home or office or office, then set the technology so that it doesn't disturb your work so that you can focus completely while recording.
2. You can make it look attractive
Make sure your background is put in place. Assess your background for color, lighting as well as general appearance. Find a spot in your home or office with a visual appeal, but isn't distracting. It's a pleasure to find a corner near a bookcase or other cozy backdrop to provide your video with texture without distracting from your real focus, which is you!
Dress comfortably, but keep it easy. As a general rule, strong colors work best on camera, but prioritize whatever outfits make you feel most you. You won't be fidgeting with your collar or shifting in your seat.
3. Prepare what you're planning to say
It's likely that your mileage will vary in terms of what type of preparation you'll need to complete prior to sitting in front of the camera. For certain people, a comprehensive script is the only way to be confident recording. For others, a simple logline can be enough to keep in the right direction.
Each person works in a different way, but it is recommended to create a bulleted outline of your message to allow your speech to flow naturally and without losing your way or burying your key details.
"A number of users prefer to write their video scripts exactly to the letter," says YouTuber Vanessa Lau. "Over time, I've come to realize is that the best approach is a bullet-point method. It means I'm aware of at least a few clear areas of focus, and since I'm able to see them on my script, it's harder for me to wander off course."
4. You can practice without the camera on.
The mere act of turning the camera on can result in heart rate spikes as well as sweaty palms. To minimize this feeling, run through your outline in front of your camera prior to pressing record. This will not only allow you to feel more comfortable in the action of recording but it will also help you notice any issues with your outline so that you're able to fix the issues before you roll tape.
During your shoot
5. Talk to one person
Anyone who is a speechwriter or public speaker of any kind knows that when preparing to address any audience is crucial to understand exactly who you're speaking to. Whether you're filming a video update for your coworkers or creating videos to upload to TikTok, having a strong awareness of who is watching - and how you'd speak to them - will give you the best possibility of getting the attention of your audience.
When you've identified who your audience is and you know who your audience is, be more specific Confidence trainer Chalene Johnson suggests speaking to just one personwhen recording the video. "Whenever I'm filming, I don't think about everyone that will be watching it, I think of just one individual," she says. "It's just so much easier to relate and be yourself."
6. Try using a teleprompter
Even as a seasoned pro talking without the benefit or cue can be extremely challenging. But using cards or staring at your laptop's display could cause a disconnect with your camera, which can create distractions for both you and your audience. A teleprompter is a great method to secure your recordings and not require card shuffling or recall. It will help you keep your bullet points top in your mind when you're making a professional speech or just a quick report for your team.
7. Make fear into excitement
No matter how well you prepare, there will be a bit of nerves when recording is completely normal. In order to harness that energy we suggest reframing the physical signs of nerves as excitement. As those feelings - like an higher heart rate, discomfort in your chest and throat - are all associated with both emotions, try telling your body and mind the sensations you're feeling are a result of being pumped-up to speak, rather than being afraid. (You could be shocked by how effective it is.)
8. Pay attention to your body language and look at your eyesline
As in real world, body language is crucial to convey confidence. Keep an eye on these three things when filming for your next film.
Watch your line of sight. When you're talking to your camera, it's, well, a little odd. Your eyes are likely wander around in the room, or look down at your hands. Make sure, however make sure to maintain eye contact with your camera to ensure that your viewer(s) at the forefront of your attention.
Utilize the hands. Particularly when you film from a seated position to increase the visual impact with your hands moving around the central square of your body while you talk. This can add energy to the final film as well as keep you from looking rigid.
Smile when you speak. One way to kick your on-camera energy up a notch is to increase your smile's corners while delivering your message. This doesn't need to be a complete smile, but just smile a little while you deliver your message can make a huge difference. "It appears fake at first," says Ali Abdaal. "But it really seems more confident."
9. Reduce it
It's totally normal to want to complete your own film with as soon as possible. But that impulse may result in you running through your script or seeming stressed when you're on the your camera. Remember to breathe (even taking a breath exercise prior to recording could be helpful!) Try to talk in a slow pace so you don't rush through your message.
After you shooting
10. Review your work in a non-critical manner.
Just like any skill, developing confidence in your camera takes practice, practice, practice. Similar to an athlete looking over the game footage and rewatching your video to discover the things you could alter and what you like about your latest recording effort. Take a moment to clock any verbal ticks or mannerisms that might be distracting for the future viewers. But make sure you are kind to yourself. This is a great opportunity to sharpen your skills and don't beat yourself up!
One final word on camera confidence
If you follow the above tips, it will send you well towards the state of confidence in your camera, don't worry about not being the perfect photographer. Every person has their own distinct screen appearance - figuring out which one you are (and acknowledging that it is there!) is among the most effective strategies to increase your self-confidence for the future. Now get out there and crush your next video!