One day, we may have the chance to work together. Better still, you might have the chance to express yourself in front of our camera. Does this idea frighten you? How are you going to prepare? Are you confident enough to follow your instincts and improvise when the time comes?

Whether you're confident or not, there's always a minimum amount of preparation involved in getting in front of the camera, to make sure you're on top of your game and can deliver your message with the necessary aplomb.

Here are a few tips you may find useful:

 

Don't memorize your text

Simply know and memorize the content of your speech, targeting the main points that make it up. Let's call this the "objective of the text". Assuming your text's objective can be defined in three parts, remember the outlines of these three main points. This method of preparation will ensure that you don't forget anything, and you won't be nervous about forgetting something or wondering whether you'll be up to the task.

 

Practice your speech in front of a loved one

This will ease your discomfort and help you put your thoughts in order.

By the time you get in front of the camera, much of your nervousness will have disappeared, since you'll already have delivered your message to someone, having made sure it was understood. What's more, it will have given you the opportunity to measure your ability to express yourself and evaluate the way you go about it. If you're pressed for time and no one else is available, do it in front of a mirror. Or better still, film yourself and analyze your performance. These days, it's very easy to do this by pressing a phone somewhere in front of you.

 

Take the time to articulate

Be aware of your shortcomings and correct them as best you can. This includes your articulation, posture and gestures. Aim for neutrality, but without being boring. Be expressive, but in control of your body and intonations. Don't be in a hurry to deliver your message. Take the time you need to express yourself well and to emphasize the words that matter. Just as a teacher does in front of a class, or a lawyer when arguing a case.

 

Make sure everyone understands you

In other words, popularize your information. No one will blame you. Be clear, concise and convincing.

 

Don't put pressure on yourself

Once you've done this, it's time to express yourself "for real". Stage fright may surface. It's only natural. But because you've practiced, you'll be in full control, and you'll want to "finally" deliver your message. In front of the camera, you're in control.

That said, when it comes to shooting, you'll have a crew at your disposal. Listen to their advice and apply it to the extent that you feel comfortable doing so. After all, since you've prepared yourself, your confidence will already be established. All that's left is to have fun and maybe even perform...