I have a good friend who is a pastor and he is an excellent speaker, however when he’s in front of a video camera he gets nervous and comes off rather awkward. There’s no magic sauce to turn someone into a natural in front of the camera, but there are things that can help anyone relax and forget about the lens, at least for a little while.
Below you’ll find 10 thoughts that can help for a better presentation for streaming video.
1. PRACTICE
Appearing on camera, like everything else, gets easier with practice. With repetition and repeated exposure, the lens becomes less scary, sometimes disappearing altogether. If possible, shoot some practice videos, so the acclimation doesn’t take place in front of a live audience.
2. PREPARE
Notes and preparation can be lifesavers. If you get thrown by the camera, you can always get back on track with a quick glance at your notes.
3. BREATHE
Anyone who’s ever gotten nervous in front of a camera knows that breathing isn’t as automatic as everyone says it is. Shortness of breath is a common result of anxiety and can lead to rushed delivery. Forcing yourself to take deep, regular breaths is a good way to calm down. And remember – each exhalation can eliminate stress..
4. ACKNOWLEDGE BUT DON’T PLAY TO THE CAMERA
Your primary audience is the one seated right in front of you. Do what you do best and build meaningful and personal connections with them. It’s easier to forget a camera is there if you don’t look at it. You don’t have to stare directly into the camera; your at-home viewers are not expecting eye contact. They understand that you are speaking to the congregation in front of you.
5. KNOW YOUR BOUNDARIES
If your style when on the platform is to walk around, make sure the camera people and yourself understand there may be areas you cannot venture to because of lighting or other limitations. Sometimes masking tape can help to literally provide boundaries to stay in.
6. WEAR THE RIGHT CLOTHING
Depending on your lighting and the backgrounds of your stage you may need to stay away from certain colors with your shirts or pants, (or dresses). Looking at recorded video will help you and your team determine if there are any issues with certain colors.
7. GET TRUSTED FEEBACK
It’s always best to get some input after a message from people on your team that will tell you the truth about how you are coming off in the video. You won’t know if you are coming off in an awkward manner unless someone tells you. From there you can make adjustments.
8. GET A GOOD MICROPHONE
Audio is very important in streaming video. If you are constantly getting feedback while you speak, it can frustrate not only your listeners but also you as the speaker. Don’t skimp on a good earset headworn microphone or at least a high quality microphone you are comfortable with using. When you are at ease on the platform, you will come off to your viewers and attenders in a positive manner.
9. IT’S NOT ABOUT YOU
It’s really about the message and how you say it, so try to remember, it’s not about you. We all get self-conscious about our appearance, but the people tuning in want to hear what you have to say. Their primary concern isn’t what you look like; rather, it’s the information and knowledge you have to share. Focus on the value of the message and information you are providing and so will everyone else.
10. BE YOURSELF WITH ALL YOUR FLAWS
The beauty of video formats like streaming live is that nobody expects it to be perfect. We are all human; nobody knocks it out of the park every single time and nobody expects you to either.In fact, the authenticity and sincere nature of live videos help endear your audience to you. Shine!