We’re diving deep into the world of video—something I truly believe can be a game-changer for your business. Whether you’re a newbie still finding your comfort zone in front of the lens or a seasoned pro looking to up your game, this episode is all about helping you be the most authentic YOU on camera. We’re talking clothing choices, lighting, scripting, and even strategies for leveraging video across multiple social media platforms.
Trust me, you don’t want to miss this one. So go ahead, get comfy and keep reading. Better yet, make sure you also tune into episode #82 of Build Your Tribe for all the insider tips and tricks. Let’s roll! 🎥🌟
Overcoming the Camera Blues: Practical Tips for Aspiring Video Creators
The Dilemma of Glasses and Camera Glare
First up, let’s tackle the ever-so-common dilemma for us bespectacled individuals: Should you wear glasses while filming? The thing is, glare is almost impossible to avoid if you’re wearing glasses, unless you adopt a rigid posture that doesn’t allow you much freedom. So, most of the time, it’s better to ditch the specs while you’re filming, unless you want to appear as though you’re performing a mannequin challenge throughout the video.
Self-Conscious on Video? Here’s How to Get Over It
So you don’t like how you look on video, huh? Well, tough cookies, you’ve got to get over it. The key to owning your appearance on video is to act natural, just as you would in real life. Pretend the lens is your bestie, and don’t try to be someone you’re not. If you’re paranoid about your on-camera quirks, here’s a tip: Don’t obsessively re-watch your videos. Analyze them just enough to know where you can improve, but don’t nitpick.
A Guide to Budget-Friendly Video and Podcast Microphones
When it comes to microphones, it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. For instance, the Rode lavalier mic is quite budget-friendly and plugs into your iPhone or iPad. If you’re into podcasting like me, the Audio-Technica 2100 is also a solid choice. And, no matter what mic you’re using, Audacity is a great free software to use for recording.
Wardrobe Choices: Less Is More
What to wear? It’s not a fashion runway, folks. Stick to solid, neutral colors and avoid patterns or noisy jewelry. The idea is to focus on you and your content, not your bling or your loud Hawaiian shirt. And for the love of style, let’s avoid ultra-trendy items like, say, black patent leather boots that scream 2023 and might not age well on the video archives.
Keeping Your Content Engaging
Want to keep your audience hooked? Follow the four B’s: Be short. Be brief. Be bright. Be concise. Create a bullet list to structure your content. Start off by telling your viewers who you are and why they should listen to you, and don’t forget to wrap it up with a call to action at the end. No need to stick to a script—just be yourself and let the conversation flow.
Adding Credibility to Your Video Presence
It’s essential to establish credibility when you’re talking about something, especially if it’s about being on video. For instance, I hold a Guinness Book World Record for starting the most exercise videos. Inserting such nuggets of information that may not typically be in your bio can lend significant weight to your on-camera presence.
Navigating the Filming Process
Forget about teleprompters and scripts; if you know your stuff, you’ll be fine without them. If you want to make the editing process easier, make sure not to stop the camera. Let it roll and give your editor enough room to cut by pausing and smiling at strategic points.
The Power of Good Lighting
Lighting is everything. You don’t need to spend hundreds on it, though. A softbox or a Stellar Light does wonders. But here’s the kicker: you can even use a phone case with built-in lighting like the LuMee. Imagine the power of transforming your appearance just with a phone case—talk about a game changer.
A Pep Talk on Being Yourself on Video
You’ve already spent a lifetime being you, so why change for the camera? The idea is to be as natural as possible. If you can do that, you’ve already won half the battle. So just relax, look into that lens (or “the hole,” as our host likes to call it), and be your fabulous self.
The Little Things That Can Be Distracting
While you don’t have to be perfect, try not to be distracting. Avoid playing with your hair or having a makeup catastrophe during your video. Your aim should be to make it easy for people to focus on your message and not get sidetracked by minor distractions.
Background Music in Videos
When it comes to incorporating background music in your videos, opinions are divided. Some folks love a good beat to elevate the content, while others find it distracting. At the end of the day, it really boils down to personal taste. If you enjoy music in videos, by all means, add it in. But if it’s not your jam, don’t feel pressured to follow the trend. People will connect with your genuine preferences.
Being Authentic Versus Overly Produced Content
Scripted lines and teleprompters can often make a video feel robotic. On the flip side, authentic content that comes from the heart tends to resonate more with viewers. This is particularly true for fitness videos where being too over-the-top can actually deter people. So, keep it real and do what you enjoy; this will naturally attract an audience who appreciates your authenticity.
Re-purposing Content like a Pro
It’s 2023, and content is still king. But it’s not just about creating content; it’s about maximizing its utility across various platforms. Use programs like QuickTime to record your live broadcasts, complete with user interactions like hearts and comments. Not only does this give you the opportunity to showcase live engagement, but it also makes content creation incredibly efficient. Post it to Dropbox and let your team take it from there for further distribution. Use snippets to create micro-content for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. It’s an effective strategy that takes into account the varied attention spans and preferences across different platforms.
Whether it’s for business interactions, personal engagements, or just everyday life, confidence can be a game-changer. Overcoming self-doubt and fear is critical for success in any field After all, in this fast-paced digital age, staying stagnant is not an option.
If you’re grappling with questions like what to wear, how to look your best on camera, or how to skyrocket your social media following through video, you won’t want to miss episode #82 of Build Your Tribe.
Keep learning, keep growing, and most importantly, keep creating!
