Being on camera can be nerve-racking, whether you’re getting ready for a Zoom call or preparing a live stream event. According to research by Buffalo, 73% of those surveyed reported experiencing Zoom or video call anxiety in 2020. While the concept of feeling “camera shy” might seem like enough of an explanation, there are actually many factors that play into this anxiety. You could be worried about technical difficulties, for example, or being unable to communicate effectively. It’s not always easy to read someone’s body language on a video call, and you may feel like you aren’t able to focus with so many eyes on you. Luckily, there are some ways you can alleviate the stress of feeling nervous on camera.
Three Methods to Avoid Being Nervous on Camera
Know What You Want to Say
It’s always best to be prepared, and getting organized before a video call can give you a boost of confidence. What do you want to get across? Consider your purpose: why is the message you want to share vital to you? Write down a few notes for yourself in advance, and keep a legal pad nearby during the call in case there’s anything you want to jot down. Practicing in the mirror beforehand can also help you become more comfortable with the way you present yourself. However, don’t overdo it by analyzing yourself to death. If you focus too much on achieving perfection, over-rehearsing can lead to increased anxiety.
Slow it Down
When you’re nervous on camera, you may speak too fast without even realizing it. Remember to take a breath and slow down your speech. In addition to helping you convey your thoughts, this method will allow you to relax. Remember, you don’t have to respond to anyone instantly. If someone asks you a question you’re unsure about, take a pause and say, “That’s a good question, let me think about it.” There’s nothing wrong with taking your time, and pausing actually shows you care about thinking before you speak. In this day and age, that is a rare quality to have! Those around you will also be more apt to listen to what you say if it comes across as sincere rather than hurried. (Bonus tip: lay off the caffeine; this won’t help if you feel anxious).
Practice with Friends
As human beings, we’re wired to communicate with each other and socialize. However, video calls will never feel 100% natural at first. By not being in-person, we lose some access to body language and verbal cues. Therefore, this kind of technology takes some getting used to. Remember, you are not alone in feeling nervous on camera. Most likely, the people you’re speaking to have experienced similar feelings. If you practice by hosting a regular video call with close friends, it might help you feel less nervous on camera. If you start with those you’re comfortable around, it will eventually become easier to participate in professional video calls.
ZMBmedia can help elevate your videos and make them stand out. We can assist you with creating videos according to your business’s needs, from promotional material to more detailed marketing videos for your products or services. ZMBmedia invites you to get in touch with our Baltimore-based videographers to learn more. Contact us today at www.zmbmedia.com.