Are you a content DIYer? Or do you try to outsource as much as possible?
I usually don’t suggest doing things yourself if you don’t have to BUT I’m making an exception when it comes to getting comfortable on camera.
Even if you have a team helping you shoot your photos and videos, try practicing shooting photos and videos of yourself too. Here’s why…
1) You’ll get comfortable being seen. And heard. Unless you’re a model or an actor, chances are you’re not super natural on camera. Or maybe you had an experience where you went into a shoot super confident only to see photos you didn’t like or a version of yourself you didn’t recognize. You’re not alone!
For years, I thought my personality didn’t translate well on camera. Turns out, I just needed to figure out who I was on camera. I’m still me but I’m a slightly more exaggerated version. I talk louder, use my hands more, and I learned not to worry about things like how I pronounce my words!
2) You’ll figure out what to do with your body. When someone sticks a camera in your face, most of us suddenly worry about all kinds of stuff.
How do I look, I don’t like my voice, what do I do with my hands, why did I wear these earrings, this shirt keeps moving, people are going to point out my chins, my accent is too strong, I don’t know what I’m doing, no one wants to see me.
But the truth is, the more you do it, you’ll can get used to seeing YOURSELF (and hearing your own voice too). And if there are any issues you can adjust. Note: most issues are things we focus on more than anyone else will!
I learned I like to stand or sit with my feet flat on the floor. It makes me feel more grounded. I don’t talk with my hands a lot but it helps me relax and recall what I want to say. And when I’m relaxed, I feel more natural so I LOOK more natural!
3) You’ll understand photographers (and videographers) better. Video and photoshoots are often full of people staring at you. Some will be giving you direction. Others may even ask for direction from you.
So when the photographer asks you to take a tiny step to the left, you’re more likely to understand that’s a millimeter and not a whole foot.
And when the video shoot ends up being way longer than expected or someone else’s energy is a little off, you know how to keep your own energy upbeat and focused.
Usually I’m one of the people giving direction. Surprisingly, that did not prepare me for being on the other side of the camera (aside from understanding photographers). I only got better by sitting down and recording myself in my own home! Which brings me to…
4) You’ll get used to showing up. Getting on camera isn’t easy. But like most things, the more you do it, the easier it gets! You’ll notice that you’re less nervous, making less mistakes, AND spending less time getting it done. It just takes practice!
Are you comfortable being on camera? What helped you get to that point? Let me know it the comments!
P.S. Ready to tell your story but unsure of what to say? Download the updated Roadmap for Sharing Transformative Helpful Content.