The Top Teleprompter Tips for Your On-Camera Moments and When to Use One
Today's blog post will give you a crash course on how to read from a teleprompter and explore its uses beyond news anchors or political speeches. Whether you're a content creator, preparing for an on-camera appearance, or just curious about these devices, this post is for you. We'll discuss when to use a teleprompter and when not to, common mistakes, and techniques to enhance your on-screen presence. Let's get started!
What is a teleprompter and how does it work?
A teleprompter is a device that displays scripted text in front of a camera, enabling the speaker to maintain eye contact while reading their lines. The teleprompter typically includes a tablet or monitor for displaying the text, along with a piece of reflective glass positioned at an angle above the tablet. The text appears on the glass, making it possible for the speaker to read it while looking straight at the camera. Due to the one-way reflective nature of the glass, the viewer cannot see the text displayed.
Teleprompters can be controlled by an operator or the speaker themselves, allowing for adjustments to the scrolling speed of the text to match their natural speaking pace. Other aspects, such as font, text size, and margins, can also be customized, much like a word document, to ensure optimal readability and comfort for the speaker.
The benefits of using a teleprompter
One clear advantage of using a teleprompter is that it eliminates the need to memorize lines, which ultimately boosts your on-screen confidence. Imagine a busy CFO who needs to record a message for investors. They can just walk in at the last minute, read the script with little to no prep, and nail it. If done right, the audience won't even know a teleprompter was used, they'll just think the speaker is a natural.
When to use a teleprompter
Not all situations call for the use of a teleprompter, and understanding when it's appropriate can make all the difference in delivering a successful message. In some cases, using a teleprompter can enhance your performance, while in others, it might make it harder to connect with the audience. Let's explore when to use a teleprompter and when to rely on a more natural approach.
When to use it
Lengthy scripts that are hard to memorize
You struggle with forming clear sentences
Lacking confidence in a topic
Technical explanations of products or services
Tutorials and how-to guides
Live broadcasts or news reporting
Political speeches or announcements
Sales pitches or product demonstrations
Webinars and online training sessions
Training videos for employees
When not to use it
Based on personal experience, it's often best to avoid using a teleprompter during any sort of interview. When someone asks a question, a genuine and spontaneous response usually leads to better results. Using a teleprompter in situations where viewers expect an off-the-cuff reply can come across as scripted and insincere. We've seen clients insist on using a teleprompter due to a lack of confidence in their knowledge of a subject, even though we advise against it. One possible solution is to record the teleprompter version and then try answering the questions naturally as a backup. Combining both approaches in the final video can create a more authentic and engaging result.
Common mistakes
When the text on a teleprompter is too wide: This causes the speaker's eyes to dart noticeably to the left and right, making it obvious to the viewer that they are reading. The solution is to enlarge the text and adjust the margins, resulting in a narrower, more compact view right in the centre of the screen.
Not taking eyes off the camera: In typical speeches or conversations, people generally look at the person they are speaking to but also glance around. Staring at the screen without looking away can make the speaker appear robotic and reveal the use of a teleprompter.
Forgetting to add filler: In natural speech, people think, process, make mistakes, correct themselves, and use filler words like "um" and "ah." Incorporating transitional words and pauses can bring authenticity to the speaker's words and make their delivery more relatable and engaging.
How to read like a pro
Practice beforehand: Familiarize yourself with the script and rehearse to improve your delivery and reduce the chances of stumbling over words. Make adjustments to the script if necessary.
Adjust text settings: Customize font size, text width, and margins to ensure optimal readability and minimize eye movement.
Control scrolling speed: Find a comfortable pace that matches your natural speaking rhythm to make the delivery more fluid.
Maintain eye contact: Look at the camera while occasionally glancing away to simulate a natural conversation and avoid appearing robotic.
Use pauses and inflections: Add pauses for emphasis, and vary your tone and inflection to convey emotion and keep the audience engaged.
Incorporate ad-libs and filler words: Use transitional words, filler words, and occasional improvisation to bring authenticity to your delivery.
Focus on the message: Concentrate on communicating the essence of the script rather than merely reading the text, which helps you connect with the audience.
Practice good posture: Stand or sit upright, and avoid slouching to appear confident and professional on camera.
Breathe and relax: Take deep breaths before starting, and maintain a calm demeanour to reduce nerves and enhance your performance.
Conclusion
Teleprompters are invaluable tools for content creators, on-camera professionals, and speakers in various industries. They can help deliver complex messages, increase confidence, and maintain a polished, professional appearance. However, understanding when to use a teleprompter and when to opt for a more natural approach is essential to connecting with your audience. By practicing proper teleprompter techniques, customizing settings, and incorporating natural speech elements, you can create engaging and authentic video content. Remember that the key to success when using a teleprompter is focusing on the message and establishing a connection with your audience. I hope this post has helped you. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments below.