On-Camera Coach

CHAPTER 12 Presenting Directly to the Camera in a Studio Setting

Here's the situation: You've been approached by someone in your communications department to appear on camera. Maybe it's for the company web site. Maybe it's for a marketing video for a product launch. Maybe it's an employee profile for the corporate YouTube channel.

Your first reaction is that you're flattered to be asked. But perhaps the more overwhelming second reaction is this: you're pretty nervous about it—possibly even terrified. Or perhaps you are on the other side of the spectrum and embrace the opportunity to engage in the exploding media landscape. After all, it offers unprecedented opportunity for you to get your message out there.

Regardless of your gut-level response, appearing on-camera is no longer reserved for communication professionals, actors, and any other brand of what is called “on-camera talent.” No matter where you are on the corporate food chain, you may be asked at some point to serve as a de facto spokesperson.

I began my training in response to this shift. I developed my curriculum with the goal of demystifying communicating through the camera with the MVPs of Performance Success as the centerpiece.

This chapter will help you solidify the techniques covered so far by walking you through the corporate video process from a talent perspective, breaking it down into four main segments:

• Preparing for the Shoot
• Orienting Yourself to the Studio
• Performing at Your Best
• Reviewing Your Performance ...