Your boss has just told you that a film crew is coming in to capture you giving an address to camera. You have no idea what that means or how to prepare for it, so we have decided to help you out. An address to the camera is typically used for company-wide statements or to present a topic or idea directly to the camera, as if you’re speaking to one other person. Address to cameras can be shot on location or in a studio and typically have supplementing material such as pitch decks.
What to Wear
It’s important that for any video production, you come camera ready. Avoid any busy patterns as this can be distracting on camera. Additionally, avoid patterns that are tight together, like stripes. Pinstripe shirts confuse the camera, creating a strange effect when you back to watch it. The camera sees everything, so keep your clothes pressed and wrinkle-free. Bring along a lint roller to remove any fuzz off your clothes. Also, add safety pins to your kit, as having this along can help make adjustments to your clothes if they sit strangely on camera.
What About Makeup
We find that the best on-camera look is something natural to bring out your features. Know that the camera will see anything uneven, so make sure you blend out very well and have an even application. To reduce shine, bring some powder with you that is either transparent or matches your skin colour. We put together a quick guide on Instagram, so make sure you save it so you can refer back to it later!
Don’t Rely Solely on the Teleprompter
Typically when you take part in an address to camera, you’ll be provided with a teleprompter. If not, ask for one! The teleprompter is a great tool to help you keep up with your content. That being said, make sure you’re not relying on the teleprompter too much. Practice your material and even try to memorize it. If you know it well enough, you’ll be able to engage with your audience, and you won’t just look like you’re reading.
Engage
It’s important that during an address to camera you speak as though you’re speaking to a real person. Keep the camera engaged. There may be times in the video where we cut to a slide or presentation, but the majority of the time, you will be the focus of the video. Make “eye contact,” use your hands, and speak dynamically to ensure the viewer keeps watching.
An address to camera is a great way to get messages and ideas across to your clients and internally. If you have a brand ambassador or rep, this a great way to engage them for a video! Contact Key West Video today, if you’re looking to shoot and address to camera!
