Getting Comfortable on Camera

The first time I ever videoed myself was for an interview to be a group exercise certification specialist.  The certification specialist is the expert who reviews the test material with candidates (in a group setting) in preparation for the exam.

I was so nervous that I wasn't breathing right.  Too many inhales; not enough exhales.  And the feedback I got after submission was that I knew my stuff, but wasn't breathing.  Yes, my nervousness was literally palpable and communicated on camera.

And that's where I started with getting comfortable on camera 7 years ago.  The only reason I'm comfortable talking to a camera these days is because I've repeatedly done it.

I've practiced.  I've put in the reps.  I've desensitized.

Robin Sharma says when you run towards your fears, they get smaller.  It's so true.  Now I can just set up the camera and film without overthinking it.

If you want the confidence to do Facebook Lives and other videos, get in the habit of videoing yourself consistently.  You don't have to post the first few or 20;)  It's the practice and taking action that slowly builds your confidence muscle!

Here are a few tips I've learned along the way to
getting comfortable on camera

1. Whatever you do, don't write out a script and attempt to memorize it.  That is a shy person's way of procrastinating.  And I'm not saying that to be mean.  It's a warning that you'll waste your time and energy.  Because as soon you hit "Record" you'll literally forget everything you wanted to say.  Trust me, I've been there.
   
   
2. Just talk as if you're talking to a friend.  Pretend the camera is your closest friend.  Give it a name....."Hi, Rachel!"  And if you lose your train of thought, keep the camera rolling.  Do NOT stop and delete!  That is what editing is for.  You can splice out the bad and link together the good.  (I use iMovie on my Mac.)
   
   
3. Talk about a subject you know backwards and forwards.  You want to be comfortable about the content.  Start practicing by telling your story.  Where did you grow up?  What made you choose the line of work you're in?  What do you love about what you do.  Telling a personal story is a natural way to get comfortable on camera and connect with your audience.