Look & Sound Your Best
On-Camera Presence
Whether you're behind the camera or in front of it, learn to present confidently and help your storytellers shine.
Eye-Line & Framing
Where your storyteller looks and how they're framed in the shot makes a huge difference to how viewers connect with them.
The Interviewer Eye-Line
For most family interviews, have the storyteller look at you (the interviewer), not the camera. This creates a natural, conversational feel.
Setup Tips:
- • Sit slightly to one side of the camera
- • Position yourself at the same height as the storyteller
- • Stay close enough for natural conversation
- • Keep your head at a consistent position
Basic Framing Rules
- Head room: Leave space above their head (but not too much)
- Eyes in upper third: Position eyes about ⅓ from the top
- Look room: More space in front of where they're looking
- Medium close-up: Head and shoulders for most of the interview
Common Framing Mistakes
❌ Too much headroom
Makes the person look small and lost
❌ Cut off at chin/forehead
Uncomfortable and unprofessional
❌ Dead centre
Creates static, boring composition
Helping Nervous Storytellers
Many people feel uncomfortable on camera. Here's how to help them relax and be themselves.
Before You Start Recording
- Have a chat first: Spend 10-15 minutes talking before you even mention the camera
- Explain the process: Let them know what will happen and that they can stop anytime
- Remind them to ignore the camera: "Just talk to me like the camera isn't there"
- Offer water: Dry mouth is common when nervous
During the Interview
- Start with easy questions: Build confidence before going deeper
- Give positive feedback: "That's wonderful" or "What a great story"
- Don't stress about mistakes: Remind them you can always re-do or edit
- Keep sessions short: 30-45 minutes maximum to prevent fatigue
Magic Phrases for Nervous Storytellers
- "You're doing brilliantly"
- "There's no wrong answer here"
- "This isn't live TV – we can always redo it"
- "Just pretend we're having a chat over tea"
- "Take your time – there's no rush"
- "I love hearing about this"
Presentation Tips
What to Wear
- Solid colours: They look best on camera
- Avoid pure white or black: Can cause exposure issues
- Skip tiny patterns: Stripes and checks can "shimmer"
- Minimal jewellery: Avoid noisy or reflective pieces
Basic Grooming
- Powder for shine: A little translucent powder reduces glare
- Check hair: Stray hairs show up more on camera
- Glasses: Tilt slightly down to reduce reflections
- Lip balm: Prevents dry, chapped lips on camera
Want More Help?
Check out our Makeup Room section in the Gear Room for product recommendations on shine control, natural coverage, and more.
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