12 tips to finally feel comfortable speaking on camera

Lights, camera, now what? This may be the question you ask yourself when setting out to speak on camera. Whether it’s a Facebook or Instagram live, a webinar, a live stream, or even a course video filmed within the comfort of your own home, it’s easy to overthink talking to the camera.

It can feel uncomfortable talking to an inanimate object that records you, especially one that’s capable of broadcasting to the masses. And when you’re filming content for your online course that your students have paid for, you want to make sure you’re delivering your material clearly and representing your brand professionally.

Because “on-air” gigs are essentially public speaking (America’s number one phobia) in a more controlled environment, it’s important to approach your fears and reservations with as much knowledge and preparation as possible in order to feel comfortable in front of the camera.

Below are some tips and tricks, whether you’re filming live or in front of an iPhone with a tripod, that will make your on-camera experience a bit less strenuous on the nerves and a lot more rewarding.

Practice makes (somewhat) perfect

1. Write a script

This isn’t a Broadway play, so there’s no need to memorize an entire script. But rehearsing from a written text will not only help familiarize yourself with key talking points, but it will also help you organize your thoughts in an order that makes the most sense.

Since the script is written by you and for you—and likely contains material you know well—you get to prioritize and emphasize certain sections or even words that deserve special attention. Allow your mind to create a blueprint of what this looks like, but avoid learning paragraphs verbatim to give room for improv and off-the-cuff remarks that will ultimately show off your personality.

2. Role play

Grab a friend, colleague, or significant other to practice, practice, practice—especially if your “on-air” moment will be part of an interview or will have you interacting with someone else. Have this person also ask you spontaneous questions and cut you off mid-sentence to force you to think on your feet and mirror a natural conversation.

Pro-tip: Never underestimate the power of a full-length mirror for mastering speaking in front of others. If you can’t find a volunteer to help, practicing in front of a mirror will help you to identify the facial expressions, vocal inflections, and body language you’ll want to either highlight or readjust.

3. Test record yourself in different set-ups

If you’re recording a video at home, take time to go around your house or apartment to find a space where the lighting and sound are optimal. Be sure to also play with your camera and tripod setup, keeping your audience in mind and asking questions like:

• Should I shoot this horizontally or vertically?
• Is there anything in this frame that could be distracting?
• Does the angle of the lens make me feel my most comfortable?

Remember: You’re the director of your own shoot and what you say goes.

4. Take two

If you have the luxury of pre-recording, never use your first take. Look back at what you’ve filmed and use it as a reference for what you want to change in the future. Be sure to also note and acknowledge the positive aspects of what was shot and carry these into your next take.

But remember: Don’t strive for perfection.

Do you speak perfectly in everyday conversations with your friends or peers? Of course not. Even news anchors who have the luxury of teleprompters garble their words from time to time. Being human is relatable.

Those who focus too much on perfection come across as robotic and overly rehearsed. While the future of technology is surely exciting, there’s a reason why the voice of Siri hasn’t replaced your favorite content creator. Your audience wants to see part of themselves in you. And when it comes to students watching your course video content, remember: They’re paying for your course because they want to see and hear your unique perspective.

5. Just breathe

Right before you hit record, it’s extremely helpful to run through some breathing exercises to slow down your heart rate and alleviate last-minute jitters.

A favorite technique is the “4-7-8” where you breathe in for four seconds, hold that breath for seven, and then exhale for eight. Feel free to also adapt your favorite breathing exercises from yoga, Pilates, or meditation, and apply them to these stressful moments leading up to “action.”