While it is not uncommon for people to be afraid of speaking or performing in front of a live audience, there are also a number of seasoned public speakers who are still having problems with being videotaped. With the advancement of technology, these people are left with no choice but to record their speech and upload it to various sites in order to reach more audience.
Some people may find talking in front of a camera awkward at first. As a consequence, fear makes you forget what you have to say. That is why we have gathered a number of useful tips to help you overcome your camera-shyness.
#1 Prepare a script.
It is always a good idea to have a prepared script whether you will be reading it from a prompter or not. Write your initial thoughts on paper and rewrite it as needed before coming to the shoot. Organize them into bullet points to create more emphasis on the important details. This way, you will be able to deliver your content smoothly and more naturally to your audience.
#2 Practice. Practice. Practice.
Cliche or not, practice always makes perfect. After you have finalized your script, practice how you are going to deliver your content. You can do it in front of a mirror or you can get the help of your friends, family, or co-workers. You may also ask them for some feedback so that you can adjust your content and delivery accordingly. Make sure to practice at least 10 times before doing the final shoot.
#3 Get comfortable.
While this is one of the most obvious ways to conquer camera shyness, it can also be the most overlooked. Wear something appropriate for the shoot and at the same time, you are comfortable in. If you have a lucky sock or any clothing item, then by all means, wear it.
#4 Smile.
Your smile will be your best weapon against camera-shyness. Before the camera gets rolling, start thinking of a happy thought. You may also imagine the camera as your friend. Doing so will help you feel at ease while doing the shoot.
#5 Be sure to convey the right idea.
Although some corporate videos require you to follow the script word for word, it is not always the case with other videos. When you are creating a video content, you may glance at your script and bullet points once in a while. Expound each thought using your own words from your own experience. Your enthusiasm and eagerness in conveying your thoughts and content are always more important. Also, the audience will know whether you are just reading from a script or speaking from the heart. Doing the latter will create more impact than the former.
#6 It’s normal.
Not everyone is comfortable in front of the camera. In fact, everyone gets a little uneasy whenever they are being videotaped. Think that there is always a first time in everything. The more you see yourself on screen, the more you get comfortable speaking in front of a camera.
#7 Be yourself.
Always be yourself. No one can deliver the content that you have prepared more than you. You may use hand gestures from time to time to look more natural on screen. Also, do not forget to make eye contact with the camera as though you are speaking to an actual person.
Whether you are an online coach, a public speaker, or a company spokesperson, we hope that the above-mentioned tips will help you conquer your camera-shyness. We also provide other ideas while on set as well as teleprompter service in the Dayton, Cincinnati, Columbus, Ohio and Miami Valley areas.
