Increase your confidence on camera by using these 10 tips

Jun 24, 2023

It's time to set up your lighting click [rec] to select your preferred camera then... you'll not be more terrified. If you're filming something in your home, the feeling of freezing up, having trouble in your speech, or being uncomfortable using the camera can be extremely common.

However, gaining confidence with your camera can help you be successful in the media-savvy world, from an outside and inside. "Being assured on camera is an essential skill that will prove useful in all areas that you are in," says an business owner and expert in productivity Ali Abdaal. "I've definitely found that having done the training for talking to cameras has helped me increase my confidence as well as self-assurance in the actual world too."

Ten tested and stress-tested strategies to help you feel (and look) more confident on camera

It's totally normal to be uncomfortable when you're directly speaking to the camera. There are many strategies and techniques that could help you overcome those obstacles and alleviate your fear. Prior to your next appearance, read our advice about how to master your camera's presence during the entire production process.

And, just before shooting

     1. Create the atmosphere

If you're lacking others' motivation to draw from It's not difficult to feel a little low-energy. Listening to your favourite pump-up song gives your mood an invigorating boost that could naturally improve your energy levels as you settle down to capture a shot. Bonus points when you sing the song in a way that does dual purpose to relax you to relax and build up your vocal box.

While you're there, clear your environment of any distracting factors. It's amazing how an accidental Phone call or Slack ping can keep you away from your task. Find a quiet spot at home or in the office, and set that tech to be quiet to allow you to concentrate on recording.

     2. You can make it look attractive

Set your background set up. Be sure to check your backdrop for lighting, color and overall aesthetics. Find a space in your home or office that is visually interesting, but isn't distractions. It's an absolute pleasure to locate the perfect spot near your bookcase or any other comfy backdrop to add texture while allowing you to keep your concentration, which is on you!

Be comfortable and casually, but be sure to keep your clothes simple. It is generally accepted that a more solid colors are ideal for a cameras. But, it is important to choose outfits that feel most relaxed. You won't be fidgeting in your neck or bobbing around in your chair.

     3. Make a list of what you're going to be saying.

The distance you'll cover will likely depend on the level of planning you'll need complete prior to sitting on the camera. For certain people, a comprehensive outline is all you require to be confident while recording. Some people find that a straightforward line of logline will keep you focused.

Each person is different, however it is suggested to write an outline that is bulleted of your presentation to permit speakers to talk naturally, without losing track of the most important details.

"A majority of YouTubers would prefer creating their videos using a specific format," says YouTuber Vanessa Lau. "Over time, I've realized is the best method is to use a bullet-point system. This means that I'm aware of at a minimum a handful of specific areas to focus on, and since I can easily see that when I write, this will make it harder for me to lose focus."

     4. You can practice without the camera on.

The mere act of activating the camera can trigger your heart rate increasing as well as sweaty palms. In order to reduce this discomfort make sure you run your outline in front of the camera prior to pressing record. This will not just help to ease into the process of recording however, it will also help you identify any problems with your script so that you can fix any issues prior to rolling tape.

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     5. You can talk to one individual

Every speech writer and public speaker that is worthy of their reputation is aware that before planning to speak in front of any type of people, you must know exactly the audience you're talking to. When you're recording an update video for your coworkers or producing content for TikTok, having a strong understanding of the audience that watch your videos and how you'd speak to them - will give you the best chance of keeping and capturing the attention of your audience.

If you've identified people who are likely to be viewing your film and are aware of the demographics of your viewers, be more specific and consult a confidence coach Chalene Johnson advises talking to only one individualwhen creating your video. "Whenever you're filming it, I do not think about all the viewers that will be watching the video, but I focus on only one person," she explains. "It's easy to act genuine and comfortable."

     6. It is possible to try the remoteprompter

Even if you're an experienced professional talking without the use of cueing is incredibly difficult. If you use cards, or stare at your laptop's display could disrupt your connection to the camera, which can result in distractions for your guests and you. Teleprompters are a great way to protect your recordings and do not need shuffling of cards or memory. This'll help to keep your bullet points at top of your mind, regardless of whether you're giving an impressive speech or a short report for your team.

     7. Change your fear into excitement

Whatever you do to prepare, there will be some anxiety during recording will be present. In order to harness this energy, we recommend redefining those physical symptoms of anxiety as excitement. As physical manifestations such as a rise in heart rate, tension in the chest, and throat can be linked to both emotions Try to convince your body and mind that what you feel is the result of your being excited to talk and not being scared. (You might be surprised by the effectiveness of this technique.)

     8. Mind your body language and your eyeline

In real world, body language is crucial to convey confidence. Pay attention to these three things when filming the next film clip.

Pay attention to the lines that your eyes are following. The idea of talking to cameras is slightly odd. Eyes tend to move about the room, or gaze down on your hands. Try, however, to remain in your eyes on the camera to ensure that you keep your viewer(s) are at the center of your focus.

Use the hands. While filming in an upright position it is possible to increase the effect of your video by moving your hands about the middle of your body when you talk. This will add dynamism to the finished product, and helps keep your appearance from appearing unnatural.

Always smile while speaking. One way to kick your energy on camera into a higher gear is to increase the corners of your smile when you are delivering your message. Your smile does not have to be a full tooth-baring smile, but a smile while speaking your message could be a big help. "It may appear fake initially," says Ali Abdaal. "But it really appears to be more confident."

     9. The time has come to slow down

It's perfectly normal to finish your movie in the fastest amount of time you can. But, it can lead to you running through your story, or presenting as stressed in front of the camera. Make sure you take an exhale (even taking a breath exercise before hitting record can help!) And try speaking slowly so you don't rush through the message.

Then, after shooting

     10. Review your work without critiquing it.    

Like any other art improving your camera confidence involves practicing, practicing, and practice. Like an athlete who reviews their games footage and then re-watching your video to look for things you could alter and what you like regarding your most recent footage. Make sure to record any verbal ticks or mannerisms that could distract potential viewers. Be sure to show respect to yourself. This is a great chance to improve your abilities and don't beat yourself up!

The third point concerns camera confidence

If you apply the above tips, it could lead you towards the level of confidence you have in your camera. Do not be concerned about not being flawless. Everyone has their own unique screen image - figuring out what yours is (and accepting that it is there!) is among the most effective methods to build confidence in yourself to the next level. Now get out there and smash your next video!

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