By Mark Shapiro, Editor at Internet Video Magazine
What do you need to do to create the best possible video presentation. In many ways, it is like having a conversation, just one you have prepared for.
Here’s a breakdown to help make your video truly shine and effectively work for you or your organization.
1. Know Your Audience and Goal:
• Who are you talking to? What do they already know? What do they need to know? Tailor your message to resonate with them.
• What’s the point? What do you want your audience to take away? What action do you want them to take (if any)? All good presentations – especially video – need to end with action items. A clear goal keeps your content focused.
2. Craft Your Content – Write your script:
• The outline is your friend: Jot down the main points you want to cover. This helps structure your thoughts logically.
• Keep it concise: Online viewers have shorter attention spans. Get to the point and cut out unnecessary jargon or fluff.
• Write conversationally: Imagine you’re talking to a friend. Use natural language and avoid overly formal phrasing. Nowadays, great video is AUTHENTIC!
• Storytelling is powerful: If appropriate, weave in anecdotes or examples to make your message more engaging and memorable.
3. Practice Makes Polished:
• Read it aloud: This helps you identify awkward phrasing or areas where you might stumble.
• Time yourself: Make sure your script fits within your allotted time. It’s better to be slightly under than to run over.
• Record yourself (audio and/or video): This is where you can really see and hear how you come across. Don’t be afraid to critique yourself constructively. Pay attention to your pacing, tone, and body language.
• Practice in front of a mirror or a friendly face: This can help you feel more comfortable and confident.
• When you practice, be open to improvements and changes. Make notes to your script. Use drama and pauses; raise and lower your voice level; be exciting!
4. Setting Up Your Recording Space:
• Lighting is key: Natural light is best, if possible. If possible, position yourself facing a window. If using artificial light, ensure it’s even and doesn’t cast harsh shadows.
Use a good audio system to record your voice.
• Sound is essential. IMHO – the audio is more important than the video: Choose a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted by background noise. Consider using an external (wireless or lavaliere) microphone for better audio quality. Always do a preliminary recording and check the audio for quality and clarity and to make sure there are no irritating noises.
• Framing your shot: Position the camera at eye level. You generally want to be framed from the chest up, with a little headroom. Avoid having too much empty space above your head or feeling cramped in the frame.
• Background check: Make sure your background is tidy and professional-looking. Avoid distracting elements. If you are making a business video, you could use a poster with your company’s or organization’s logo or info behind you.
5. Delivering Your Speech:
• Be yourself: Authenticity shines through. Let your personality come across.
• Speak clearly and at a good pace: Enunciate your words and avoid rushing. Slow down and BREATH!
• Maintain eye contact: Look directly at the camera lens as if you’re talking to someone. This creates a connection with your audience.
• Use natural gestures: Don’t be afraid to use your hands to emphasize points, but avoid fidgeting. Make sure your gestures can be seen in the camera shot.
• Smile (when appropriate): A genuine smile can make you appear more approachable and engaging.
• Take pauses: It’s okay to pause briefly to let your points sink in or to gather your thoughts. It can actually make you sound more confident. If you tell a joke or say something very dramatic, pause to let your audience absorb it before moving on.
Bonus Tips:
If you will be editing in images or B-roll to your video, practice with them so you know when to reference them and how they appear on screen.
Make sure you add contact info at the end of your video so that viewers will know how to get a hold of you for more information or to buy your service or product.
If you don’t get it right the first time, do it again! You can always cut together and assemble different takes by using images or b-roll to camouflage the cuts.
Just remember to be prepared, be yourself, and have fun with it. Let me know if you have any more specific questions.
