Video content is the key to successful e-learning and digital training. Putting yourself in front of the camera is a challenge for many trainers. But how do I overcome the fear of filming? We asked our video experts and received helpful tips:
Current studies show that video content is becoming increasingly relevant for training. And we repeatedly preach that video content is very important for your online courses. How to record videos and what technical aspects you should consider while filming, we have already explained in many articles.
Reading tip: Feel free to check out this article if you want to read again about what we recommend for high-quality video production.
But how do I approach this as a video novice? I may even have the right equipment, but I struggle to speak freely in front of the camera. How do I overcome this barrier while filming? I asked my colleagues these questions. Below, you will find the tips from the blink.it video experts summarized for you:
Pay attention to your mindset when filming
As with all fears, it helps to approach the endeavor calmly and without prejudice when filming. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, as every beginning is hard and making mistakes is simply part of it.
Don’t think too much about your appearance, your setup, or sound and image quality – all of that doesn’t matter right now. Optical “flaws” usually go unnoticed by most outsiders. And even if they do: They don't prevent the person from being able to listen. Focus your attention on the content and temporarily block out all other factors from the filming. The more open you approach the “video” project, the greater your success will be.
These tips can help you:
Ensure a good mood before filming! For example, listen to your favorite song. This way, you will also convey a positive vibe in front of the camera.
Concentrate only on one thing! It's best to turn on airplane mode on your smartphone so you're not distracted.
Film your videos while standing! An upright posture will automatically make you speak more confidently and clearly.
Keep your content as brief as possible! Avoid long and complicated sentences. This will also help you automatically avoid slips of the tongue.
If you are an “um”-type between sentences, you should say the word “pause” in your head during breaks. This will help you to start the next sentence effortlessly.
Record multiple versions and don’t get frustrated over small stumbles. In an emergency, you can always edit the videos later.
Just get started and try it out!
The best tips won’t help you during filming if you don’t apply them regularly. There’s a saying for a reason: Practice makes perfect.
Ideally, you should even record short videos daily! They don’t need to be super extensive – it is perfectly sufficient if you keep a kind of video diary and summarize your day in one to two minutes. Of course, you don’t have to publish these videos; it’s merely about getting used to handling the camera. With each time, you will become more confident and familiar with the camera. You can also experiment with your setup and try out different filming locations and perspectives.
The goal is to find a suitable setting in which you truly feel comfortable. Only then can you focus on the important content. My colleague Konstantin put it aptly: “Keep it simple!” This applies to all aspects during filming. So don't stress yourself out; just try it out for yourself!
What are you waiting for? Grab our free guide to filming with your smartphone as a support and start today with your first filming. Good luck!
