Prepare for Recording Quick Takes For Your Practice Video

Follow these tips to make your video more professional. You may also download these tips as a PDF.

Tips for Shooting Better Video

  • Choose a setting that feels authentic to establish credibility and where everything visible on camera serves a purpose.
  • Position yourself near but not in front of a window for more flattering light.Maintain enough distance from walls to avoid ugly shadows.
  • Center yourself on camera.
  • Maintain eye contact with the camera to be more engaging.
  • Position the camera at eye level or slightly above to slim the face.
  • Find a location without echo or background noise for the best audio quality.
  • Bring your enthusiasm up a notch to engage viewers because the camera absorbs energy.
  • Smile!

Tips for Your Attire

  • Keep it clean and simple – clothing and accessories should not distract from the speaker.
  • Avoid tight repetitive patterns like high contrast pinstripes, herringbone, houndstooth, and fine checks.
  • Avoid silks, satins, and shiny fabrics.
  • Wear solid colors; they look best on camera.
  • Avoid wearing all black, all white, or all red.
  • Your clothes should be fitted and follow the contours of your body.
  • Avoid any accessories that could make noise or distract.
  • Add a pop of color with a necktie, pocket square or scarf.