Video is a key marketing tool for brands and agencies, and with the focus on using video as a key content source, it’s more important than ever for professionals to understand what works in front of a camera. Similarly, for pre-record or live to camera pieces, professionals should be aware of ‘recording etiquette,’ with knowledge of potential pitfalls to avoid.
Whether you are a seasoned professional in front of the camera or just about to record your first company video, taking time to understand the relationship between the lens and its subject is an important step to take.
What should you practice before heading in front of the camera?
- Posture and pose: whether standing up or sitting down, ensure your posture is straight. Avoid a stiff pose, and use your upright position to keep you in control and focused.
- Be natural: use your normal speaking voice and don’t be tempted to put on a persona for the camera. Speak at a normal pace and take care not to let nerves muddle up your words.
- Practice your pacing: rehearse what will you say beforehand, taking care to avoid slang and any wordy phrases that could run you into trouble. Practice your pacing, and remember not to rush what you have to say.
- Breathe: focus on your breathing before you go live and re-run the key points in your head. Usually you won’t be able to include them all, but try to use them as key anchors in your responses.
- Hydrate: take time to drink some cool water before you are about to record or go live, and keep a small glass of water nearby in case you need it. Don’t be afraid to hydrate on the go!
- Look for emotion: the lens can pick up emotion and the area where it is commonly found- the eyes. Ensure your mental state matches your camera objective- if you want to bring your audience along with you then you will need to be energized and believable.
- Be friendly: treat the camera like a friend and look directly into the lens. The camera is the route to communicating with someone you like and trust, and perhaps importantly, someone you want to influence. Relax and focus on making that personal connection.
- Don’t be afraid to make mistakes: these happen to us all! Often these videos are the most popular, particularly if being used to show a behind the scenes glimpse at the company or brand. This creates an authentic feeling and sense of transparency, and we would all admit that bloopers are one of our favorite videos to watch!
How do you prepare for a live interview or video taping? Share your tips with us!