Whether recording a product review or a captivating SnapChat story, capturing high quality webcam video is all about preparation.
Here are some tips to help ensure you can record the best quality video possible during your interview:
Quiet Room
Make sure you’re in a quiet room with minimal distractions (quiet enough that you will not need to use headphones during the interview). The more you can eliminate distractions, the better you can focus, and both of these equate to high quality video!
Frame Your Webcam Properly
Make sure your webcam is at eye-level (not angled up or down at you) and that you are in the center of the frame. If necessary prop your computer up on a box or a few books to get it to eye level (this will help avoid an unattractive double-chin look). If you break your frame into thirds with horizontal lines, your eyes should be around the intersection of the top and middle third. You should be about 2 feet away from your screen (so not too close but not too far). Also, make sure you have about 2 fingers of space between the top of your head and your QuickTime recording browser. See example below.
Check Your Lighting
Webcams aren’t great at capturing video in low-light and too much back light can wash out the subject. During the day, make sure your webcam is facing away from any windows so that you have consistent lighting. Also, be aware of any overhead light casting unwanted shadows on your face.
If you have external light sources (like paper lanterns or a desk lamp), use them. The lights should be just above your eye line in front of you.
Make Sure Your Video’s Background is Clean and Presentable
If you are recording in an office, make sure you backdrop is professional and not distracting (we don’t want to see a sales team shooting nerf guns at each other in the background). If you will be recording from home, make sure your backdrop is tidy (free of clutter, dirty clothes, or an unmade bed). Your background will add to your story and image, so make sure it’s one that you want to convey.
Easy steps to follow when recording your video:
-
Keep a relaxed but professional posture, but don’t be afraid to use hands and arms (in moderation) to help make a point. However, too much gesturing can become distracting.
-
Speak slowly: when nervous, one can tend to talk a little quickly and that makes it harder for the viewer to digest your comments.
-
Enunciate and speak with with energy and excitement.
-
Try to address the question in your answer (eg. “What is your favorite color?”, Answer: My favorite color is blue because….) This will guarantee that the your statements are clear and can stand alone without the need to hear the question that trigger them.
-
Make eye contact with the webcam. Avoid the temptation to look at the corner where your face is being displayed, and instead look directly at the camera. Not only will it help with focus, it will also give the impression of confidence and authority.
-
Try to not move too much while you are recording (this is super distracting to viewers).
Hopefully, these tips will help you start making quality videos that convert!
Below are some great resources if you need further education!