A Guide to Video Presence: Master Your On-Camera Moment

Whether you're a seasoned pro or

this is your first time on camera, this quick guide will help you look and feel your best and be prepared enough so you can focus on delivering your message in an engaging way.

First some basics.

1. Know Your Lines (But Don't Recite Them)

This is the most important part. You don't need a word-for-word script, but you absolutely need to know your key points. Rehearse what you want to say so it feels natural. The goal is to internalise the message so you can focus on delivery and not on remembering.

Think of it like being an actor who has memorised their part. They're not just saying lines; they're inhabiting a character. You're inhabiting the character of a knowledgeable expert. And that character looks great on camera.

2. The Look and Feel

Dress like you would for a regular, in-person meeting.

• Wear a solid colour: Avoid overly complex patterns, thin stripes, or flashy logos, as they can sometimes look strange on camera. A simple, professional look is always best.

• Sit up straight: Good posture not only makes you look more confident but also helps you breathe better, which is great for a smooth delivery.

• Relax: Take a deep breath before we begin. You are the expert here. Just be yourself, and let's have a great conversation.

3. Make Eye Contact

If you are delivering your message directly at the camera, when you speak look at the camera lens and not the camera operator or the screen. You will then make eye contact with the viewer, this is how you establish a genuine connection. It will feel a little unnatural at first, but it is the key to creating a more personal and engaging video.

If you are delivering your message off camera maintain eye contact with the interviewer if your eyes are wandering around the room it will look like you are struggling to remember your message and erode your knowledgeable expert appeal.

Beyond the basics.

The Three-Part Rehearsal: How to Practice to Perform Better

This exercise is a powerful way to quickly become a more effective communicator before you even step in front of the camera. 

Step 1: The Audio Rehearsal

Record a short video of yourself speaking on your phone. Turn the sound up, press play, and just listen. Don't watch—just listen to your voice.

• How are you using your voice? Is your tone effective?

• Is your voice clear? Are you speaking at a good pace?

• What is working, and what is not working?

Step 2: The Visual Rehearsal

Now, mute the sound, press play, and just look.

• What is your body language saying?

• What are you doing with your hands and head? Are they working with you or distracting?

• Are you slouching, or do you have good posture? Are you moving around for no reason?

• How do you look to others?

Step 3: The Transcription Rehearsal

This is the most powerful part. You don’t listen and you don’t look at it. You get the video transcribed and ask to include all the sounds and non-words.

• Review the transcription and highlight all of your filler words ("um," "uh," "like," "you know") and any unnecessary sounds you make.

• This will give you a very clear picture of what is cluttering your speech and where you can become more concise.

  
  

Great visual communication does not happen by accident but with a little preparation and practice and it will soon be second nature.