How To: Get Over Being Camera-Shy

For the most part, and this is something I tell every single person who asks me, the main way to feel comfortable in front of the camera is to be in front of the camera over and over and over while feeling NOT comfortable. And you just have to do that however many times it takes for you to feel comfortable with the camera on you. Whenever it is no longer a struggle to just be yourself on camera, that is when you know you feel ready.

But that does take a long time, and even I get camera shy every now and then. There are a few little tricks that can make the process easier.

ALWAYS HAVE A DRINK ON-HAND

Nervousness will make your mouth super dry. It can even make it so dry that the inside of your lips can stick to your teeth, making it difficult to speak. (This unfortunately happens to me every time I'm near my crush.) Having plenty to drink can help with that of course.

Even more so, making it a comfort drink and having it in a cozy mug or your favorite cup can really help. Every little thing like that does help!

UTILIZE AROMATHERAPY

So many personal fragrance brands have caught onto the importance of aromatherapy. Studies have proven it to be effective at altering moods and mental stated. Some of my essential oil based favorites are from Adoratherapy, Think Unique and Twelve Spells. Whether you prefer a perfume roller, a mist or a diffuser; there are so many options nowadays. If you work from home, that makes it even easier. You may be tempted to just reach for calming lavender, but I find the addition of both grounding and energizing/focus kind of scents work even better than just a calming scent on its own.

THINK OF A LOVED ONE

One of my biggest on-camera struggles is to look content. My natural face can be rather, well, resting-bitchy. But smiling too much can look ridiculous. The key is to smile with your eyes, and I find the best way to achieve that is by thinking of a loved one. And not just thinking about them in general, but really imagining that they have just entered the room. It really lights up my eyes. Trust me, it's much more effective than imagining people in their underwear.

PRETEND YOU'RE TALKING TO A LOVED ONE

Talking on camera can be quite challenging. The awkwardness comes in the moment you try to not sound awkward or when you worry about whether the audience will be able to hear you...are you speaking too quickly or too slowly? Just pretend that you are telling a story to a loved one. It will help a lot in bringing out your natural tone and cadence. Even better, start talking as if you're in the middle of a conversation with them.

FILM THE INTROS LAST

If you're still struggling, remember you can film the intro last. That is often the hardest part to be natural in during filming. It's much easier to film the intro after you've already warmed up filming the rest of your video. As long as you are using an editing app, you can put everything in the right order before posting.

LOOK YOUR BEST

This kind of goes without saying, but showing up as the best version of yourself can go a long way in boosting your confidence, and that confidence will show through on camera. Figure out your good side, whiten those teeth, get a new top - whatever will make you feel your best.

CUT YOURSELF SOME SLACK

There is a reason directors do so many takes. People rarely get it right the first time. So give yourself some time to do numerous takes. It's okay to strive for perfection, but don't demand or expect it of yourself. Remind yourself that you are doing a great job just trying to do something most people can't. You can do it!