LOCATION IS EVERYTHING
- Be sure to pick a location that is well-lit so your audience can clearly see you
- Consider background – look for any potential distractions and remove them if possible
- Use a tripod to stabilize the video. If you do not have one, stack up some books to hold your camera. Do not film handheld if at all possible.
- Outdoors is best, in the shade if you can for diffused lighting. Direct sunlight will make you squint, and it will cast harsh shadows, but it’s better than indoors.
- If you must film indoors, use external lighting if you have it. Even a desk lamp can help.
- If you do not have an additional light source, film facing a window.
AUDIO
- “On-board” audio (meaning the mic that’s built into your phone or camera) is always going to sound muffled and cause an echo – only use it if you have no other option
- Use wired earbuds with a mic, if you can be close to the camera
- If you need to be away from the camera for a demonstration, use wireless (Bluetooth) headphones with a mic
SPEAKING
- Speak slowly and clearly, but conversational. Don’t feel like you have to be overly professional. People want to watch someone they relate to.
- If you stumble over your words, just keep going.
- If you mess up in a large way, pause for a second and simply restart the sentence (not the entire video). The blooper can be easily edited out.
- If someone else is editing for you, it can be helpful to use a signal (such as putting your hand up to the screen) to indicate you are starting that sentence over.
PRESENTATION
- Plan ahead. Write out a script (or outline, at least) so you have a roadmap of what to talk about. Don’t feel like you have to stick to the script 100% – but stay focused.
- Remember – done is better than perfect. You will become more comfortable on camera as you keep doing it.
- Production quality will also improve over time – what is most important is that you get your message out clearly.
- In general, people’s attention spans are pretty short. Keep your message as concise as possible.
