So you’ve got to shoot a corporate video but your nerves are getting the better of you.
The prospect of being on camera can be intimidating, especially if you have no idea how to shoot a corporate video. The production team will handle the creative and technical aspects of making a corporate video for your business, so you just have to focus on your performance.
However, we know not everyone has the ease and grace of a professional actor in front of the camera, so here are some ideas to make your first corporate video a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
If you are looking for someone to shoot a corporate video for you – and want to have more success than just searching ‘corporate videographer near me’ and hoping for the best – then start with How to find the best corporate videographer.
This is Splento’s in-depth look at how to find the best producer that will suit both you and your production.
Tips on shooting a corporate video
Dress the part
Of course, you are only as confident as you feel – but the good news is you can definitely influence how you feel by making yourself look great. Wear something that makes you feel confident and you will definitely project this confidence on camera.
Although you’re shooting a corporate video, you don’t necessarily need to be in corporate attire. Wearing a suit might make you feel stiff and uncomfortable. Wear something that reflects your brand. You should also dress comfortably so you feel more relaxed in your video; wearing something too restrictive will make you come across as awkward. If you’re unsure what direction to go in, a smart-casual style is a failsafe option. Neutral tones and pastel colours translate well on camera without being too loud.
Pro Tip: Avoid patterned clothing – pinstripes, small checked patterns and herringbone should be avoided at all costs especially! Because the camera doesn’t perceive patterns in the same way as the human eye these patterns become distorted on camera and start moving around – definitely a corporate fashion faux pas.
It’s significant to note that with professional lighting for the video, you’re prone to getting hot, so avoid thick and heavy materials and instead, opt for something more lightweight and airy.
It’s always a good idea to bring backup options to the shoot in case of accidental spillages and other unforeseen accidents.
Practise makes perfect
Anxiety arises when we don’t know what to expect, and the best way to combat this and relax for your corporate video is by preparing. Putting a little effort into preparing for the shoot will go a long way to making you feel more at ease. You should always script what you want to say, because even if you’re not going to recite it verbatim, it will help you to get clear on your objectives for the video. Try rehearsing in front of a family member or friend to get comfortable with speaking in front of someone else.
If you will be having a conversation with someone else in the video, having a quick run-through with them will help you to tease out any issues before the shoot begins. However, don’t overdo the run-through, as this can lead to you sounding too rehearsed. You want to come across as engaging, but natural. People will be watching your video because they’re interested in your company and what you have to say, so be confident and say your piece!
Breathe
If you’re struggling to relax before you start, try breath-work. If you find your nerves becoming uncontrollable, deep breathing techniques are scientifically proven to help calm you down. By slowly taking deep, deliberate breaths you can regain control of your nerves by regulating your parasympathetic nervous system. Deep breathing triggers certain neurons that detect blood pressure. Once these neurons are activated, they indicate to the vagus nerve that blood pressure is becoming too high, and it then responds by lowering your heart rate.
We recommend the 4-4-4 method as it is easy to remember and simple to execute. Breathe in for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 4 seconds, and breathe out for 4 seconds. Only a couple of minutes of deep breathing like this will return your heart rate to normal, and allow you to relax.
Also, remember to breathe during the shoot! If you freeze up in front of the camera, holding your breath is the worst thing to do. Breathe and relax.
Have fun
Lastly, have fun with it! This is likely something you’re not used to doing, so try to enjoy the unique experience as much as possible. The production team will be experienced in shooting corporate videos, so rest assured, they’re taking care of all the challenging technical elements. All you have to do is show up and have fun talking about your business! You have the knowledge and expertise to create the perfect video, so have confidence in your ability.
Remember, people are interested in you and what you have to say, so you have no reason to be nervous.
Also, a corporate shoot is a recorded video – not a live presentation; you can do as many takes as you need to. It’s perfectly normal to have several takes, and it’s comforting to know that if you mess up, you can start over again.
So your corporate video fail-free tips are to smile, talk slowly and clearly, don’t forget to breathe, and enjoy yourself. And there you have the recipe for a successful corporate video on your hands!
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