On-camera Tips from Falco Creative Media and Twin Cities Mom Squad
Written by: Anahita Champion, Twin Cities Mom Squad
Hey Sisters, who’s ready to BLOOM on-camera?!
The “on-camera” idea may feel foreign to many people, or seem uncomfortable, or mayyybeee it’s now just the standard with all things pandemic and virtual everything. From selfie-videos in Instagram stories, to Zoom conversations, FaceTime, or video for work/school….most of us have been quite familiar with the On-Camera range. Some of us LOVE it and can’t get enough, ok maybe the “fun stuff” we can’t get enough of, while others may feel super awkward and out of sorts. Guess what, wherever you fall in this range…is OK!
This week’s special featured blog is from my fellow media pal, professional videographer and former sports reporter of 8 years AND our Squad Sister, Katie Hennen. Learn more about Katie’s super amazing background and fab business by reading her Spotlight! She is sharing all sorts of helpful, easy to try and valuable tips with becoming more comfortable on-camera and rocking your next video whether that is for IG, work, school or for fun!
The following is what Katie wanted to pour into us on this week’s Memo:
Tip #1: If it is appropriate, always smile. If you happen to mess up, people won’t notice nearly as much if you're smiling. And make it a genuine smile. Also, this lessens any internal tension and nerves you may be feeling.
Tip #2: RELAX. I know it’s easier said than done. Take a couple deep breaths before the camera is rolling.
Tip #3: Prepare but don’t over-prepare. For me, I always did my best when I was prepared and knew the subject inside and out. But if I would try to memorize my script word for word, you best believe I would stumble over all of my words. Just be knowledgeable in what you're talking about and familiarize yourself with the script.
Tip #4: Make a point of choosing an outfit you feel comfortable in. The last thing you need is to be fidgeting with your outfit on camera. With that being said, wear an outfit that will conceal sweat stains. I am Italian. I sweat. All of the time.
Tip #5: Stay hydrated by taking sips of water between takes. As a very dehydrated person in general, it was crucial for me to always have water at the anchor desk. Your parched throat could ruin an otherwise great take!
Tip #6: TAKE IT SLOW. We all tend to speed up our speech when we’re nervous. Even if it feels like you're talking abnormally slow, you're probably not.
Tip #7: Watch others who are on camera and take notes of what you like and don't like.
Tip #8: Watch your body language. Like your mama always says, “sit up straight!”
Tip #9: Use your natural voice. A lot of people for some reason find the need to change up their voice once the record button is on— making their voice either too high or creepy low. Just remember, the key is to come off natural, so you want to reflect who you are.
Tip #10: Breathe. People also find the need to hold their breath which ends up leading to huge gasps in between words or sentences. This doesn't sound great and is very distracting. B-R-E-A-T-H-E.
Bonus Tip: My go-to advice for everyone… just pretend like you're having a conversation with your best friend.
To learn more about how you can maximize the art of videos in your craft or for your platform, connect with Katie to chat on some ways she can suggest and her brilliant services that brings magic to the table.