The 4 Steps To Crushing It On Camera Handout

Our Super Simple Preparation Process

(Make sure to watch the video modules as they go into depth about each topic, this handout is just meant to reference as you implement them.)

Who, What, Where?

• WHO are you talking to? Identify your target audience/demographic. Conduct customer research to pinpoint their desires and pain points, enabling you to use language that resonates with them.
• WHAT is your main topic, and what do you aim to achieve with this video? Are you looking to drive sales, lead viewers to a webinar, or establish trust and authority in your brand?
• WHERE will this video be published? The choice of platform will influence the video’s duration, style, and other aspects.

Brainstorm

• Engage in an uncensored, bullet-point brainstorming session for the video. Note down all ideas without restriction.
• Reflect on personal stories that could be incorporated. Delve into details like emotions experienced and obstacles overcome.

Trim The Fat

• Refine your ideas into clearer, ordered bullet points.
• Consider how to express your points more succinctly, swiftly, and engagingly, perhaps through storytelling.
• Determine what aspects will keep the target viewer engaged throughout and compelled to act by the end.

Rehearse

• Develop your script aloud from the bullet points. Since spoken language differs from written text, verbal practice is essential.
• It’s unnecessary to memorize the script verbatim. Allow for natural variation in each practice session.
• Practice while engaged in physical activities (like folding laundry) to better integrate the content.
• Experiment with various delivery styles to avoid monotony.
• Focus on your audience to ensure connection, authenticity, and a natural, conversational tone.
• Perform the “Over the Top” exercise by practicing with exaggerated expression to overcome inhibitions and enhance dynamism. Review recordings to refine your performance.
• Continue rehearsing until you can confidently film in three takes or fewer. Follow the #3TakeRule.

STEP 1: Prepare Thoroughly Before Recording

Welcome to our training module on efficient video recording techniques. This guide aims to teach you how to make the most of your preparation and turn it into a confident and impactful video presentation, whether it be for your social media, educational courses, or professional pitches. Drawing upon tried-and-true methods from the realms of professional comedy and television, we'll show you how to leverage your prep work to record compelling videos in three takes or less.

Step 1.1: Develop Your Bullet Points

These are the backbone of your presentation. Each bullet point represents a key idea or segment of your content.

Step 1.2: Rehearse Your Presentation

Familiarity with your material will allow you to present it naturally and fluidly.

STEP 2: Utilize Bullet Points During Recording

One of the most effective strategies involves your bullet points—yes, the ones you've meticulously prepared. Here's how you can use them during recording:

Step 2.1: Place Bullet Points Strategically

• Tape your bullet points next to or just below the camera. This positioning allows you to glance at them discreetly, ensuring a seamless flow of presentation.

Step 2.2: Use Bullet Points for Rapid Recovery

• If you find yourself at a loss for words, a quick look at your next bullet point can trigger your recall. For instance, spotting ‘amazing beaches' on your list can instantly remind you of the segment you intended to cover next, allowing you to transition back to your content smoothly.

Step 2.3: Opt for Mobile Filming with Bullet Points

For those who enjoy the spontaneity of selfie-style videos or Facebook Live sessions, this trick works wonders:

• Attach a sticky note with your bullet points directly to your phone. This way, even in the most casual recording settings, you maintain a coherent structure to your content.

STEP 3: Manage Interviews and Extended Sessions

During longer recordings or interviews, bullet points are invaluable for keeping the conversation on track without missing any critical questions you intend to ask.

Step 3.1: Keep Bullet Points Next to the Camera

• Place your list of questions or key points next to the camera to swiftly refer back to them throughout the session.

STEP 4: Learn from Standup Comedy Techniques

The technique of using visual cues to maintain the flow of a performance isn't new. In fact, it's a well-adopted practice among stand-up comedians.

Step 4.1: Understand the Use of Confidence Monitors

• As a standup comedian who's performed across the country, I (David) can attest to the effectiveness of this method. Whether it's a Netflix special or a live show at a comedy club, comedians often use ‘confidence monitors' placed discreetly on stage. These monitors display bullet points or key phrases that help the performer transition smoothly between jokes or stories.

STEP 5: Incorporate Professional Visual Cue Strategies

The principle behind this technique is simple yet powerful:

Step 5.1: Recognize the Importance of Instant Triggers

• The rehearsal process embeds the structure of your presentation or performance in your memory. A concise visual cue, like a bullet point, can instantly activate the related content in your mind, allowing for a seamless continuation.

Step 5.2: Acknowledge Professional Endorsement

• This is a common practice among professionals in various fields—be it stand-up comedy, live television, or public speaking. The use of visual aids for cueing is a tested and trusted strategy to maintain flow and coherence.

Thank you for joining this training session. Implement these tips in your next recording endeavor and elevate your video content to new heights.

Goodbye, and happy recording!