How to look good on camera: 6 easy steps

1. Get that background sorted out

Think about what your viewers will see in the shot besides you. You want your background to be simple yet aesthetically pleasing. Things like large bookshelves, plants, and brick walls always look great. Avoid busy backgrounds, and eliminate distracting elements.

Make sure the background is nice and tidy – especially if it’s a shared-use space or you’re working from home. The last thing you want is to discover a rogue pair of socks in the frame after you’ve finished filming. Be sure to check all surfaces visible in the shot.

If your background looks too bland or flat, liven it up with a few decorations. For example, you can hang something on the wall (e.g., a painting, a guitar, string lights) or arrange a few of your favorite knickknacks on a shelf. Dim accent lights like salt lamps or LEDs can add some vibrance to the environment.

An alternative to using a practical background is to set up a vinyl, paper, or cloth backdrop. These can be solid colors, prints (e.g., brick), or even a green screen that you can replace with any image you want.

2. Use a good camera

If you want to look your absolute best, a USB webcam won’t cut it. The best option is to get a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a clean HDMI out signal. Some affordable options include models like the Canon M200, Sony a6400, and Panasonic Lumix GH5.

For example, in the video below, Dan is using a Canon M200, and George is using a Sony a5400 digital camera:

3. Position your camera properly

Position your camera at eye level or slightly above. The ideal distance between you and the camera will depend on the camera’s lens and how much space you have to work with.

The more distance you have, the better. By allowing enough space between the subject and the camera (at least 5 feet) and the subject and the background (another 5 feet), you’re creating depth of field and adding dimension to the shot. Plus, with the right camera lens, the background will have that neat blur effect (called bokeh) you’ve probably seen in lots of professional productions.

4. Light it right

Good lighting makes a huge difference, so investing in a few video lights is worth it. Using natural light as a source is possible, but it’s tricky since that lighting is apt to change with the weather and as the day rolls on. Artificial lights are best.

A set of LED lights will serve you well. These are easy to work with and won’t run hot. A tripod is the simplest solution for mounting these, though clamp mounts can also work.

Three-point lighting

The standard, most basic way of setting up lighting is known as three-point lighting. It goes like this:

• Place one light about four to five feet in front of you. This will be your main (or key) light.
• Set a second light the same distance, about four to five feet in front of you, spaced out about three feet from the first light. This second (or fill) light will counterbalance any harsh shadows on your face cast by the key light.
• Position a third light behind you to create a nice rim of light around your silhouette, helping separate you from the background.

For a more in-depth look at three-point lighting, check out our clip on that subject:

5. Get yourself ready

The clothing you wear and how you do your hair and makeup are important to consider beforehand. Reason being, not everything looks great on camera. Here are a few guidelines.

Clothing

A solid shirt and dress colors work best. Avoid:

• Prints with overly saturated colors, small prints, or stripes – they might create a jittery effect on video
• Anything green if you’re planning to shoot in front of a green screen
• Clothing that’s pure white or black – it creates too much contrast.

Hair and makeup

• Check for flyaway hair (a bit of hairspray will help if you find any)
• Control perspiration. It’s only natural to sweat more when you’re before bright lights and are under pressure to perform. Use blotting paper and translucent powder to help prevent shine.
• Choose natural lip, blush, and eye shadow colors if you’re wearing makeup. This is known as “no makeup” makeup, which is what looks best on camera.

6. Action!

Your on-camera performance matters just as much as your appearance. If you’re avoiding eye contact with the camera while mumbling under your breath, not even the best camera in the world could save you.
Remember to sit up straight and elongate your neck. This will improve your posture and help avoid a double-chin situation. Don’t forget to smile!

Often, feeling comfortable in front of the camera makes all the difference. Take a moment to loosen up before shooting the video. It may also help to record yourself and watch it back. If you’re recording, there’s no harm in doing a few takes before finding that keeper.