Should You Sit or Stand When Talking to the Camera?
Apply your best on camera technique when making a video. And that includes knowing if you should sit or stand when talking to the camera.
"Stand up! Sit down! Fight! Fight! Fight!"
That was pretty much our cheerleaders' chant in just about every high school football game. It was rather catchy, but it wasn't totally clear what we in the stands were supposed to do. Stand up and sit down on command? With nary a "Simon says?" It was a conundrum.
Similar confusion takes place on set when you're making a video. Unless you're advised - or told explicitly - you may not be sure whether you're supposed to stand, sit, or move around in front of the camera. Awkward! Maybe it would be helpful to have a bunch of screaming teenage girls telling you what to do and when.
But if you're a parent, you may have already had your fill of screaming teenage girls. Especially those jumping up and down in your face, gently informing you at the top of their lungs what they think you should be doing for them. Nuh uh. Not happening. You'll decide for yourself, thank you very much.
OK, so do you stand up or sit down when speaking to the camera? Well ... and don't you love this answer?... it depends. Really, it does. Besides, why give a good, ol' straightforward answer when you can revel in ambiguity?
It's all about the energy you want to project And what you want the viewers to feel empowered to do after watching your video.
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Here are a few things to think about:
Laura's Quick Tips
What type of video are you making?
Works best for the subject matter?
What works for YOU, the speaker of said video?
What's the overall length of the spot?
What type of energy do you want to convey to the viewers?
What's your call to action? In other words, what do you want the viewers to do after watching your video?
All of these matter, though there IS an industry consensus about which is typically most effective. Curious? Take a few minutes to watch this brief video and find out. Your choice, whether you sit or stand while you do.
Enjoy this and want a few more handy dandy pointers? Check out On Camera Tips for Success.
I'm Laura Doman, a former tech industry sales executive, hands-on mom, voice & TV/film actress, and improv performer. I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories, from the friendly CEO touting new upgrades to your sassy best gal pal dispensing some necessary, real-world advice...Let's Talk!
