Help! I'm On Camera. Where Am I Supposed to Look?
- Laura Doman
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Your Guide to Eyelines, Confidence, and Connection
You’re about to hit “record.” You’ve prepped your notes, checked your lighting, and taken a deep breath.
Then… you freeze.
Where are you supposed to look?
Welcome to the magical world of eyelines, "actor speak" for where your eyes should focus when you're on camera. It may seem like a small thing, but trust me, it makes a huge impact on how your viewers perceive you.
If you’re not used to being filmed beyond a few selfie videos on your phone, figuring out where to direct your gaze can feel awkward. But here’s why it matters: we connect through the eyes.
Whether you're live or pre-recorded, your audience wants to feel like you're speaking to them, not past them.
That connection happens when they can clearly see your face and your eyes - that’s where trust, authenticity, and emotion live.
Are you credible? Does what you're saying truly matter?
Viewers look to your eyes to decide.
Humans are wired to seek meaning and connection in another person’s eyes and facial expressions.
Why Your Eyes Matter on Camera
Think of the last video you watched where someone truly grabbed your attention. What made them compelling? Chances are, they looked straight at you... or at least felt like they did.
That’s because we’re wired to seek meaning and connection in another person’s eyes and facial expressions. It’s how we read emotion, sincerity, and intent.
Even in a video, we’re unconsciously asking:
Does this person believe what they’re saying?
Do I believe them?
Can I trust them?
And our emotions often decide long before our brains catch up.
How to Get Comfortable Looking Into the Lens
Let’s be honest: staring at a tiny lens can feel… weird. Like you’re talking to a robot. And if you’re nervous, your “steady gaze” may resemble something out of a horror film. Great for Halloween, not so much for your business brand.
Here are a few ways to make it easier:
Picture a real person you’re comfortable talking to: a friend, a client, a colleague. Tape a photo of them next to the lens, if that helps.
Focus on your message. You have something valuable to share. Let your passion drive your delivery.
Move naturally. Look away when gathering your thoughts. Gesture as you normally would. Don’t freeze. Just keep your movement controlled and camera-friendly.
You’re not a statue. You’re a human - so act like one.
When It’s Okay Not to Look Into the Camera
There are situations where looking directly into the camera isn’t expected. Or appropriate. Let’s walk through a few:
The On-Camera Interview
You’re being interviewed - great! Less pressure. But where do you look?
If the interview is virtual (like on Zoom), the best bet is to look into the camera when you’re speaking, especially during your key points. Try placing the interviewer’s Zoom box as close to your webcam as possible — this lets you react to them naturally while maintaining decent eyeline.
If the interview is in person and both of you are on camera:
Angle your chairs about 45 degrees toward each other. Not side profile, but not head-on either.
Look at the interviewer while they’re speaking, but turn to the camera when delivering your answers. This makes the viewer feel included in the conversation.
In a live audience setup, shift your attention between the interviewer, the camera, and the audience. Just don’t lose the audience’s connection entirely.
If the interviewer is off-camera (you lucky introvert, you), then look slightly off-center toward them, but make sure the camera still catches most of your face. And yes, you can sneak in a look at the camera now and then to draw the viewer in with a smile or a punchline.
The Panel Discussion
Here’s the good news: you don’t need to overthink this one.
In panel setups, whether around a table or lined up on stage, the camera’s usually capturing a wide shot.
Focus on the people you’re talking to, not the lens. Just remember:
Don’t zone out. (No side-eye or mid-sentence yawns, please!)
Stay engaged and present in the discussion.
Keep your posture aligned with the tone of the event: professional, but relaxed.
The Demonstration Video (a.k.a. Show and Tell)
Doing a how-to video? Demonstrating a product? Explaining a chart or diagram behind you?
Focus on what you’re doing, but look up at the camera occasionally to include your audience.
For example: assembling a piece of furniture? Look at the camera after each major step, like you’re checking that your viewer is still with you. “See what I did there?” goes a long way toward keeping people engaged.
Working with CGI or Green Screen
Now you’re really acting!
If you’re interacting with something imaginary, like a graphic that’ll be added in post-production, you’ll need to use your imagination. Pretend that invisible object or character is real and positioned where it will appear in the final shot.
Look toward the imaginary object, but try to keep your face visible to the camera.
Don’t turn your back to the camera unless directed.
Ask your director or video producer for guidance. (They should know exactly what they want.)
Sometimes, you will look into the lens. Other times, you’re part of a scene. Either way, keep your performance honest and connected, even if it’s with thin air.
Final Takeaway: Let Us See You
Whether you’re being interviewed, demonstrating something, or starring in a green screen extravaganza, the key to strong on-camera presence is simple:
Let the viewer see your face. Let them see your eyes. Let them see you.
Practice with your phone. Review your playback. Get comfortable. And when in doubt, ask someone who knows the ropes - like me.
Want 1:1 help getting camera-ready for your business or brand? Reach out. I’d love to help you shine on screen.
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I'm Laura Doman, a voice & TV/film actor and video communications coach. As an actor, I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories well, from the friendly CEO to your sassy best gal pal dispensing real-world advice. As a coach, I help you become more comfortable and charismatic on camera in videos, presentations, and online appearances.
