Whether you’re preparing for an interview on live TV, starring in a video for your company’s website, or creating social media content wherein you speak to your followers directly, we understand that being in front of the camera can be a little awkward and scary.
But not to worry! We have some tips to give you a confidence boost and help you nail your upcoming on-screen performance.
You’re your own worst critic
First off, know that when it comes to viewing yourself on video, you will always have a heightened perception of yourself. Your facial expressions and mannerisms will both shock you and leave you asking: “Do I really sound and look like that?” Rather than be hard on yourself, know that with each practice session and experience, you are going to become a more confident and seasoned speaker – both on and off the camera.
Here’s our top tips if you’re new to being in front of a camera:
1) Practice regularly
“Just be yourself!” Easily said, but not so easily done. It can be incredibly hard to come across as natural when you know the record button is on. So how do you achieve this natural persona? Practice, practice, practice. Start by practicing in front of a mirror. You can even record yourself in private and watch the playback. Then take it a step further and practice in front of people you trust – a close friend, a family member or a significant other. The benefits of practicing in front of someone you feel safe with are three-fold: speaking in front of a mirror cannot compare to a live audience, the mirror will not give you valuable feedback, and no one will be more honest with you than someone who knows you well.
2) Dress to impress
If you look good, you’ll feel even better. It’s important that you dress well before going in front of a camera. Not only will it give you a confidence boost, which will lead to a more natural performance, but it’ll improve how your viewers perceive you, too. Choose an outfit that is both flattering and appropriate.
While you don’t want to wear just your everyday clothes, you also don’t want to wear something that will draw the attention away from your message. You want to engage with your audience and draw them in to what you’re saying, not what you’re wearing. So be careful of bright colors or flashy designs, as it will likely distract them. A bright orange shirt should not be what they remember when you’ve finished speaking.
3) Have realistic expectations
It might take some time before you feel comfortable on camera. No one expects you to be a professional actor, especially not on your first go-around. So just be you. Be realistic in what you want to achieve, set reachable goals, and don’t take yourself too seriously.
If you have fun, laugh at yourself, and make the whole experience a positive one, then the likelier you are to have even more on-camera opportunities in the future. In the meantime, research videos on YouTube or the web where people share words of encouragement and inspiration for what to do (and what not to do) in front of the camera. And remember, you’ve got this!
Need some help? Contact us for media training
If you’re interested in being on the camera on a regular basis, such as for television interviews where the audience is vast and the pressure is a little more intense, we advise reaching out for media training. We have more than a decade of experience working in national television, and understand the importance of having a perfect delivery on the air.
Check out the common signs that you need some media training, and feel free to get in touch with us to learn more!