What are the five steps towards looking good on a self-made video podcast?
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by Mark Shapiro, Editor of Internet Video Magazine
vidiot3786@gmail.com
You may have spent hours, days or weeks planning and scripting your upcoming video podcast. You have collected various images, charts, props, and b-roll and now you are ready to shoot your podcast.
Hold on a second! Do you look as good as you possibly can?
Yes, great content is essential for an effective vidcast but you also got to look good.
Here are five steps to ensure you look your best when shooting a video podcast
- Good Lighting is Critical→ Use soft, even lighting on your face (natural light near a window is great, or a ring light if you’re indoors). Avoid harsh shadows or strong overhead lights. Soft and gentle is the key.
2. Clean, Thoughtful Background
Set up a simple but interesting background — maybe some books, plants, or cool art. Keep the background simple it so YOU stay the visual focus. You might want to hang up a banner with your company’s logo and web address.
3. Camera Angles Matter
Position the camera at eye level or slightly above. Never shoot too low (no “up the nose” shots!) and not too high that it feels distant. You don’t want your camera looking down at you.
4. Personal Styling
It is best to wear solid colors that contrast with your background. If you are shooting an “on the job” video, you might want to wear your “work” outfit. Medical professionals may want to wear scrubs. Mechanics might want to wear overalls. Cooks will want to wear an apron, Avoid small patterns (they can “buzz” on camera). Neat hair, light makeup if you like, and clothes that make you feel confident.
5. Confident Body Language
Sit up straight, lean in slightly, smile naturally, and make “eye contact” by looking at the lens sometimes — it feels personal and authentic for your audience. You can “punctuate” your on- camera performance by leaning in to accent a point.
🎥 Video Podcast Quick Checklist
✅ Good lighting — soft, even light on your face (natural light or ring light)
✅ Background clean and intentional — no clutter, add a personal touch
✅ Camera at eye level — no low angles, no weird tilts
✅ Effective Outfit — appropriate to subject matter, solid colors, no tiny patterns, feel confident
✅ Hair and face check — neat, polished, maybe blot away shine
✅ Microphone test — clear sound, no popping or weird echoes. Test and listen to audio playback before shooting. Record “room sound” just in case there is a gap that needs to be fixed in edit mode. Quick background noise check — eliminate anything distracting
✅ Eye contact — look at the lens now and then to connect with viewers.
✅ Posture — sit tall, relaxed shoulders, natural hand movements. Lean into the camera to emphasize points.
✅ Energy check — smile slightly, sound engaged but natural – shoot multiple takes if needed.
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