Today we will:
- Hear a Newscheck
- Discuss news
- Discuss basic tips for speaking on camera
- Edit A3
News
- NYT: Elections
- NYT: AT&T and TIme Warner
- NYT: Universities and endowments and Paradise Papers
- NYT: China and propaganda
Speaking on camera
How You Look
1. Wear Clothes You Feel Good in
Have some fun with your wardrobe and be sure it reflects your personality. Choose comfortable clothing that showcases the real “you.” To make a slightly more formal statement, a suit and tie or blouse and skirt is perfect. Keep jewelry to a minimum. Keep hair out of your face. Feeling good about yourself is key. And it will show.
2. Your Mom Was Right: Sit Up Straight and Stand Still
The camera exaggerates everything because there is nothing to distract the viewer. If your posture is poor, viewers will think you’ve checked out and lost interest. Your body should convey your energy and intelligence without being stiff and robotic.
Don’t fidget. Plant your feet hit width apart.
3. Watch Your Body Language — Everyone Else Will
If you impulsively rub your leg to calm your nerves, it will look like you have fleas. Find a good place for your hands so they aren’t distracting to viewers. You can talk and gesture with your hands, but don’t go wild.
4. Smile With Your Eyes
A warm and genuine smile does wonders for coming across as sincere and confident. The eyes can dictate whether a smile is real or forced. Look mostly at the person, but sometimes at the camera.
How You Sound
5. Use Your Natural Voice.
Leave that “Good evening, Mr. and Mrs. America” voice at home. Be yourself and speak to the camera like it was your best friend. Not only is it more natural, but it’s what people expect. You want your video to reflect who you are, not Brian Williams.
6. It’s How You Say It
You know what you’re talking about. So focus on how you deliver the goods. Pacing matters. Don’t rush. Enunciate. Avoid slang. Your choice of words is also key. Simple and clear beats a multisyllabic mouthful any day.
How To Prepare
7. Look At The Camera As You Would Your Dog
Don’t be afraid of the lens — it won’t bite or even lick you. Just look into it with the love you’d give a welcoming pet at the end of the day. Don’t look around; darting eyes scream, “I’m nervous and desperately searching for the exit!” Blink naturally; excessive blinking signals a lack of sincerity.
8. Keep It Moist
Dry mouth is the enemy of talking. Get that frog out of your throat with a sip of water. Taking a water break can also be a way to step away from the camera and calm your nerves. And keep your lips moist with something other than your tongue!
9. Chill
Don’t go in front of a camera full of nerves and sweaty palms. Do whatever is necessary to help you relax — stretch, do jumping jacks, listen to music, go into the bathroom to talk to yourself. Sit in front of the camera only when you’re feeling calm, cool and collected. It will add to your confidence.
10. Breathing Is Good
Not only is it essential for life, but breathing is necessary to be awesome on camera. Take deep breaths before you go live, and continue to breathe easily when the camera’s on. If you find yourself breathing or talking too quickly, it’s time for a break.
NPR: Sea Turtles
Homework:
- A3 due Thursday Nov. 16
- Tuesday: RPC 30-33
- Read humor pieces passed out in class.
