When preparing for a professional video shoot, it’s important that you feel as ready and comfortable as possible. There are some tips and tricks we’re happy to share on how you can best prepare for your on-camera session.
In addition to scheduling plenty of time for your video session so you don’t feel rushed, we recommend you get a good night’s sleep, have a snack or a meal prior to your on-camera session so you can fully focus, and follow these 3 tips to prepare for a successful shoot.
1. Get comfortable with your script or outline
There are a variety of business videos you might shoot, from overviews and introductions to interview-style, explainer videos with animations, and voiceovers and more. But the one thing each has in common is a script or an outline.
The creators at Vimeo point out that “If you don’t at least have a loose plan or script to work from, your viewers will know.” Familiarize yourself with your script or outline. Read it aloud, read it in front of a mirror, or in front of a significant other or a friend. Even if you upload your script or outline into a teleprompter, you don’t want to look like you’re reading it line by line.
If you’re part of the script creation process, create a script that feels natural to read out loud. And remember, shorter answers are often best.
If your video is interview-style, know the questions ahead of time and consider preparing your answers ahead of time, too. You’ll want to sound natural and real in an interview format, and it’s okay not to memorize. A little adlibbing will make you sound more unscripted and natural, but be sure you are speaking on a topic you’re comfortable with and passionate about.
2. Wear the right clothes
Does it matter what you wear? Of course it does! The wrong attire can give the wrong impression or distract viewers from your core message.
When planning your video day attire, avoid the following:
- Stripes or tight repeating patterns that can be distracting to a viewer. Subdued, solid colors tend to work best, but avoid wearing all black, all white, or really saturated bright colors like orange or yellow.
- High contrast clothing like a bright white shirt and bright red pants.
- Clothing that has writing, images, or icons on it unless they are company shirts with your logo.
For your shoot, plan to keep jewelry and accessories simple. Adjusting a scarf or having noisy bangle bracelets that make sounds when you move will be distracting. Also, wear clothing that fits appropriately whether you’re standing or seated. Follow the general rule of thumb: wear clothing that is comfortable and natural-looking.
If you wear glasses, you may want to be prepared to remove your glasses on filming day as lightning can often cause reflections in glass, which could be distracting.
3. Let your authority shine through your body language
Make good eye contact with the camera. By ignoring the rest in the room, you’ll appear focused and engaged with your audience.
While the occasional hand gesture can be a good addition, your body language is important whether standing or sitting. So, avoid fidgeting with your hands too much or shifting around in your seat. Always stand or sit up straight to portray confidence.
And be sure to smile! You’ll want to convince the audience that you’re happy to be there, so be sure to smile at the beginning and end of your presentation, and be sure to speak on a topic that you’re truly interested in. When you’re genuinely passionate in what you’re saying, the audience will be more interested in what you have to say, too.
Whenever you’re ready for your next video marketing project, Gate 39 Media is here to help prepare you for professional on-camera success.
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