One thing that people like about live stream is they are raw, authentic without any filters. But is it the same for the person who is recording or want to record such sessions? Whenever we talk about live stream or recorded sessions, our comfort matters the most. We all like to look confident on camera or in the live video. Those in creative fields have to come in front of the camera or conduct live sessions occasionally. But not all are comfortable in it. They want to overcome that block, but something is holding them back. In today’s post, let us talk about how to look ad feel more confident on camera and live videos.
If you would like to listen to this topic in Hindi then you can tune into this podcast link.
And if you want to listen to this in English then check out this podcast episode
Be Natural
Being natural is very important when you are facing the camera. Be at ease, and first get comfortable before you hit the record button. If you are nervous, then it will show in the recording and that we don’t want. Right? So, think as if you are talking to your friend and try to be natural. You can do it. In your live videos, you can see your audience. So consider them as your friends and talk.
Related article: Facial expressions can make a big difference, use them carefully
Do Some Dry Runs
Sometimes, no matters how much we decide, but when we start the recording, we get cautious. And then the above discussed “be natural” element losses its presence. For that, it is best to do some dry runs. These days, we have good quality cameras on our phones. You can record a couple of times and practice until you get comfortable. Dry runs always help. First, it prepares you before the recording, and second, it helps in reducing the discomfort. It gives you confidence, which is the key for any live videos/sessions.
Compare Your Shots
Once you have recorded a few clips on your phone, you can compare them and see your performance. It will also give you a good idea about your speed, pauses, expressions, clarity, and hand gestures. Why did I say hand gestures in specific? Gesturing can act as a second language. But make sure that you don’t overdo it. Please keep it to that level so that people can focus on your words. The same goes for expressions. Sometimes, we go a little overboard with the part of the expression as well. “Do what comes naturally to you”.
Do you want to know the science behind hand gestures? Check out this article.
Related article: The fascinating science behind “talking” with your hands
Look At The Camera and Not To You
This is another area that people struggle with. We are so used to looking at ourselves in the mirror that even when we are looking at our phone screen, we look at ourselves and not towards the camera. Have you experienced in some of the videos that the speaker is not looking at you? This is for a reason I explained earlier. When you are looking at the camera, you are looking at a spot. But from the receiver’s end, you are looking at them. Also, by not looking at yourself, you will be less likely to get cautious. I know it feels odd, but with practice, you will get better at it.
Use The Language You Are Comfortable With
Language is the backbone of any kind of speaking. Whether it be in-person talking or on camera in a live video or a recorded video to post on the social media. English has become a common language but there is no set rule to speak in English. When your audience does not understand English, or you have a mixed audience, it is better not to mix two languages. Recently, I gave a session to the Ambedkar University Delhi. Since this was my first time addressing them, I checked with the host about the language part. If you come across any such occasion, it is best to confirm that before the recording/session. These days, I see Hindi or other regional languages are picking up a lot.
Enjoy The Experience
Half of the time, anxiety is the most significant factor that comes in the way. So first, get over that. Take it as a new experience, give your best, do dry runs, prepare well. And I am sure you will enjoy the experience. The first time is always challenging if this is something new for you. But once you do it regularly, it will be fun.
So don’t think too much. Do it.
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla, and generously SPONSORED BY Bugshield Clothing – Enjoy Outdoors More!
I’m always to critical about my own videos… mostly I feel that I come off as less confident but I’m sure a little practice should do the trick like you mentioned
Yes, it will come with some takes and re-takes. 🙂
Wonderful post. Iam sure many will find it useful not just for recording but live sessions as well. I so connect with the ‘look at camera not you’ point as it is the natural tendency to look at oneself like you would in a mirror. It takes concious effort to look at the camera instead.
Yes Vasumathi. Thats very important.
Thanks for sharing your valuable inputs Alpana, being natural in front of the camera helps a lot to connect with the viewers/listeners.
Correct.
These are great tips, Alpana. As you said, the key is to be authentic and natural. Trying to be someone we are not always reduces the confidence level. And gets pretty evident on screen. Ditto on looking at the camera. It does seem weird talking to a gadget. But it looks more weird if the person is talking to you but not looking at you.
Yes Ritu. You got my point.
A very useful article especially for vloggers. I always make the mistake of looking at myself instead of camera.
Many do the same mistake. Its more of a habit. A we are not used to of looking at a gadget.
You covered very important points in this article. It’s true that not everyone is camera ready or feel confident. Following these tips for recording will surely help them to make awesome videos. I think people get nervous when someone else is recording for them and when you are alone with your tripod and camera you feel more confident.
Yes.
Learn a lot of new things from your written content….. You covered very important points in this article. It’s true that not everyone is camera ready or feel confident.
I am glad you found it helpful .
These tips are sure useful. Talking in front of camera is not the same as talking to a live audience. It takes a lot of practice. But being natural is always best.
Absolutely.
These are really valuable inputs Alpana. It is very important being natural in front of the camera and i am still learning this.
You will get it.
These are some wonderful tips Archana. Being a confident camera person, I have always felt that making videos will be easy, but boy, the first time I made a video I realized that is a different game altogether. Irrespective of the good communication, one fumbles and goofs it up & looses the confidence. The key here is to practice as much looking at the camera. Many times I have ended up finishing the video continuously looking at myself, only to realize the video is down the drain.
So, these points are realistic, relevant and helpful too. Thanks for penning down this.
Not looking at yourself make a big difference.
Trust me, I need to follow the pointers badly , I am gonna compare my shots and go for dry runs. I guess it will be helpful. Sometimes, I miss the eye contact while looking at the camera
You will get there.
This is such a great post Alpana for people like me, I am a camera shy person and that’s why don’t like to create video. But with your wonderful tips and tricks would like to try out for sure. Thanks for sending some inspiration.
I am glad you like the posts and the tips.