TIPS FOR VIDEO RECORDING YOURSELF (AND BEING COMFORTABLE & CONFIDENT DOING IT)

Practice, Practice, Practice!

Record Yourself Daily

One of the best ways to get comfortable on camera is to practice recording video regularly. Record yourself daily, even if it’s just for a few minutes, and get used to the process. Start with short videos and gradually increase the length as you get more comfortable. This daily habit will help you get used to speaking on camera, and it will feel more natural over time.

Record While Driving

This might sound crazy, but recording yourself while driving (safely, of course) can be a great way to practice speaking naturally. Many people find they can speak more freely and with less self-consciousness while doing another activity. Make sure your camera setup is secure and hands free, such as with a dashboard phone mount, so you don’t get distracted.

Watch the Footage and Improve

Reviewing your recordings is key to improvement. Watch the footage critically and identify areas to improve. Look at your body language, facial expressions and the clarity of your speech. Note any bad habits or tics and work on minimizing them in future recordings. Self-critique can lead to big improvements over time.

Using Proper Lighting & Shooting Techniques

Natural Light

Good lighting is key to good video. Natural light is often the best so try to record near a window during the day. If natural light isn’t available, use soft, diffused light to avoid harsh shadows and look professional.

• Position Your Light: Make sure your main light source is in front of you to illuminate your face evenly. Avoid backlighting, which can create unflattering shadows.
• Use Additional Light if Needed: Ring lights or soft box lights are great tools for even lighting. You can find cheap lighting rings on Amazon that will do the job just fine, so don't feel like you need to go out and buy an expensive system. Experiment with different setups to find what works for you.

Shooting Techniques

The way you set up your camera can make a big difference in your video. Here are some key shooting techniques to consider:

• Stabilize Your Camera: Use a tripod or a stable surface to avoid shaky footage. Stability is key to looking professional. If you do need a tripod, you can find an inexpensive phone tripod online or at brick-and-mortar big box retail stores.
• Frame Your Shot: Position the camera at eye level to create a natural perspective. Make sure there’s enough space around you in the frame and don’t cut off the top of your head or shoulders.
• Background: Choose a clean background to keep the focus on you. Avoid busy patterns or distracting elements that take attention away from your message.