The Real Reason You Hate Being on Camera (And What You Can Do About It)
- Laura Doman
- 37 minutes ago
- 3 min read
What’s the hardest part about being on camera?
I asked that question in a Facebook group a few months ago, and the answers came pouring in.
The most common responses?
“I hate how I look.”
“I’m afraid of being judged or what others will say.”
“It’s too much work to get camera-ready when I work from home.”
And it wasn’t just the women—appearance concerns were the number one reason people said they avoid turning on their cameras during virtual meetings or showing up in videos.
It's a waste of aggravation to worry about how you look, sound, and appear on camera.
Focus on your message instead.
"Thanks, Laura! I was able to break through my hangups about being seen on camera, and it's really helped me move my career to the next level." - Virginia, a client
Meet Virginia: From Camera-Shy to Camera-Confident
Take my client Virginia, for example.
She worked remotely and, like many, preferred being the proverbial fly on the wall. She kept her camera off during team meetings, training sessions, even 1:1 Zoom calls—whenever she could get away with it.
Virginia didn't like the way she looked on camera. She felt self-conscious and hyper-aware of every perceived flaw. But as her role evolved, so did the expectations. Her manager and team wanted to see her face. She was even being considered for a promotion that required leading virtual presentations.
That promotion would pass her by if she couldn’t demonstrate leadership and communication skills on screen.
So, she decided to take action.
We worked together to help her shift her mindset—from one focused on appearance and insecurity to one centered on value and impact. When she stopped obsessing over how she looked and started focusing on what she brought to the table, everything changed.
Virginia not only got the promotion—she also found new confidence spilling into other areas of her life.
Want That Same Mindset Shift?
If you’ve ever struggled with showing up confidently on camera, I want to personally invite you to a free, one-hour live event:
🎥 The Shameless Hussy’s Guide to On-Camera Confidence
📅 Thursday, May 1
🕓 4pm EST / 1pm PST
💻 Free Registration – Register here
I’ll be sharing five of my top strategies to help you master your screen presence, even if you currently dread hitting that “Start Video” button.
Why Do We Avoid the Camera? (It's Not Just About Looks)
While appearance is a big factor, it's far from the only reason people avoid being on camera. Here are a few other common ones—do any sound familiar?
Privacy and Comfort
Some people just prefer the comfort of being off-camera. It can feel freeing to remain unseen, especially in a home office environment.
Tech Troubles
Low-quality webcams, poor lighting, bad sound, or slow internet can make video calls more frustrating than helpful. And sometimes, you don't even know what you need! Or how to use it properly.
Self-Consciousness
Many people feel hyper-aware of their awkward habits, a busy (and seemingly unprofessional) home environment, and comparisons to others on the call.
Content Over Camera
Some prefer focusing on the discussion or taking notes, finding video to be a distraction rather than a benefit. Not to mention, they'd rather be multitasking than sitting still, appearing to be engaged in the subject at hand.
Social Anxiety
For others, being seen by a group—even virtually—can trigger deep discomfort. This goes beyond camera jitters and may need support from a licensed therapist.
I Can Help You Show Up with Confidence
If any of these points resonated, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. In my work, I help clients with:
Identifying budget-friendly gear that makes a big impact
Reducing self-consciousness and improving on-screen body language
Organizing and delivering content clearly and confidently
Eliminating verbal crutches (“like,” “um,” “you know”) and managing fidgeting
💡 If social anxiety is a primary issue, please know that the best support comes from a licensed mental health professional. Your mental wellness matters.
Ready to Feel Good on Camera?
Join me at The Shameless Hussy’s Guide to On-Camera Confidence and get:
✅ Five powerful strategies to boost your camera presence
✅ A complimentary gift just for attending
✅ A free 45-minute 1:1 assessment call to talk about your unique challenges
👉 No cost. No pressure. Just real support for real people who want to show up fully. Just register below.
The Shameless Hussy's Guide to On Camera Confidence
Thursday, May 1
4pm EST/1pm PST
Want to learn more? Let's talk!
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.
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