Speaking Tips for Your Video Production

 If you aren't already producing videos to boost your business, chances are strong you will do that soon, because you realize we have moved from print to audio to video marketing quite steadily. And although speaking for video production might seem intimidating at the outset, you will adjust and succeed by following a few steps that others have found beneficial.

In preparing your comments, don't compose a script you will follow word for word. Reading a script or even repeating a memorized script could make you sound too stilted. Even if you have access to a teleprompter, leave that device to professional broadcasters who have learned how to follow the prompter without appearing robotic.Rather than writing a manuscript, jot down your key words and phrases in logical sequence. For example, a video offering advice about Internet security could include "passwords," "phishing," "spam filter," "offers of cash from strangers," and "using wireless in coffee shops."

Once you have made that outline and thought about how you want to explain each point, how can you access your notes without turning away from the camera? That's quite easy. Write the main topic points on a small sheet of paper, such as a steno pad, and then tape the page onto the tripod, directly underneath the camera. This way you can dart your ideas quickly to your prompter page without distracting your viewers.

Possibly the thought that will relax you the most: Remember that you don't have to get your video right on the first take. Because you aren't an actor or voice over professional, you are likely to stumble a time or two, even after you get comfortable with the camera. However, starting over is not only Teleprompter app for Mac acceptable, usually it is beneficial. Even a seasoned video producer finds that a second, third, or even fourth version shows improvement over the first try. Again, center on the assurance that viewers will watch only the final copy you release, and will have no concept of what you recorded previously.

In the first few seconds of your video, even before you speak your first word, smile very visibly. Make the smile genuine, as you reflect on how strongly you believe in your topic and how privileged you feel to share your information with others. When viewers consider you friendly and likeable, they are more prone to keep watching.

For video, a rapid speaking rate is advisable. A faster rate makes you seem more animated and involved in your topic. Too, numerous studies have confirmed that listeners can still understand us when we accelerate our rate. This means that if you speak too slowly, your viewers could experience a "listening gap," causing their attention to wander because you are not giving them all they can absorb. On this point, I suggest that you watch segments featuring your favorite TV news anchors. Almost without exception, their rate exceeds what they would use in a casual coffee shop conversation.

What about gesturing? Gesture exactly as you would during any other speech-not canned or even planned, simply letting your motions flow from what you are feeling. Just one spatial caution: Keep your gestures somewhat limited, so they will fit within the video frame.

Your vocal tone should resemble conversation, not a broadcast or lecture. To achieve this, imagine that one person is sitting on the other side of the camera and you are talking with him or her.

Pay attention to the visual background. Move a floral arrangement that could look like it's growing out of your head. Also remove distracting shiny objects, such as a book whose jacket gives a jarring reflection. When your background is dark, wear lighter clothing so you won't blend into the scenery. With lighting, place the source properly so you will avoid prominent shadows.

One final recommendation: When you have completed your trial runs and produced a version you consider acceptable, ask a savvy business colleague, friend, or even family member to watch your presentation. Assure this associate you are open to constructive feedback that will improve your video. Incorporate every recommended alteration you consider valid.

Again, video production has arrived as a popular and even expected method for marketing our products and services to others. Fortunately, after brief initial training you can produce quality videos yourself at nominal cost. Follow the guidelines we have reviewed, and you will speak as comfortably and convincingly on videos as you do anywhere else.