3 Most Common Mistakes People Make on Video

As a television reporter for over 5 years, I have interviewed and put myself on-camera for different news stories and commercials thousands of times. Not only have I noticed issues with my own on-camera performance, but also in how others conduct themselves on-camera.

This is why I started teaching workshops for multiple organizations and companies to help them share their story in the most impactful way. Video is easily the most impactful way to do this, as 80% of internet traffic is video content according to Cisco.

For any organization or personal brand looking to share their story on video, these are the most common mistakes that I have seen when people first get on-camera. 

Most of it has to do with lack of confidence. By knowing these mistakes ahead of time, and practicing often, you can learn to be a master on-camera.

1. BAD FORM

Slouching and low energy is very easy to fall into on-camera, but it will make you look unreliable and disinterested. This does not mean that you need to overly perform and pretend to be someone that you are not. 

Keep in mind that the camera can act as a filter and dilute your energy. Taking charge of your energy will leave you looking charismatic and engaging to your audience.

If you’re someone that finds it hard to sit up straight when sitting down, try standing up when you are on-camera because it is easier to keep the energy up while on your feet. 

2. BEING UNPREPARED

You might have no problem communicating or speaking in front of an audience, but that doesn’t automatically make you great on-camera. 

Try your best not to be scripted, and have a set of bullet points on you or remembered as your main talking points. Knowing your audience and practicing a few times beforehand will keep you on-point and away from nervous patterns.

If you’re going to be on video for the first time feel free to ask any questions to the people filming you that might have more experience. You can also book a complimentary 30-minute-session to learn more about the best way to share your story through video.

3. USING BIG/COMPLICATED WORDS

Once someone is confused, they click away or change the channel. By using technical terms or “expert jargon” you limit your relatability with the average person that does not share your expertise. 

Think of sharing information so that a 5-year-old can understand. If you have to use certain terminology, make sure that you have enough time to explain this terminology in a quick and easy to understand way. 

By staying away from big words, this will have audiences enjoying your content while still solidifying you as a credible resource.

At the end of the day, have fun with it! Video is such a magical tool and fun to produce. 

Remember, the reason you want to be on-camera is because you have valuable information to share with the world that others can benefit from. If you think of it more as helping others, rather than self-promotion, it makes the experience much more rewarding. 

If you have any questions make sure to book a complimentary session with me here so that I can help you with your media strategy and become more confident on-air.