Whether you're a YouTuber, a TikToker, or someone who occasionally has to jump on a Zoom call, we all have to face the camera at some point. 👀

As a video editor, I see every day how being comfortable on camera makes a huge difference in the final product. This is why I think:

Being comfy on camera makes you instantly more magnetic.

People can't help but be drawn to you. But here's a secret you already know deep down, so just a reminder: the person who seems the most confident on camera didn't start that way.

Being comfortable on camera is actually 99% of the time, a learned skill.

Step 1: Set yourself up for comfort

First, make sure you're in a spot that's comfortable for you.

I know it sounds simple, but trust me, if you're squirming around in a chair that's too hard or too soft, it's going to show in your video. Lighting and background can also make a huge difference in how you feel too.

Here are a few ways to make yourself feel more "you":

Wear comfy clothes and/or pick things you love to wear and feel great in!
Do your hair and makeup in your favorite way.💅🏻
Choose a place to film that feels like "you."
I always think the best lighting is sunlight, so filming in front of a window is not only cheery AF, but it also creates a beautiful, natural glow.

Step 2: Positive self-talk (mirror work)

This is something I've found super helpful before hitting record: A little internal pep talk can go a long way in building, and then reinforcing, your confidence.

Here are a few good affirmations to practice:

"I am natural and at ease on camera, and my audience can feel it."
"I am worthy of being seen and heard."
"I embrace my uniqueness and let it shine through on camera."
"I am grateful I get to share my message with others."

Use these affirmations as-is or tweak them to fit you. Repeat them to yourself before pressing record, or even write them down and place them somewhere you can see them frequently!

Step 3: Practice, practice, practice

Perhaps the most important step of all: practice.

The more you're on camera, the more comfortable you'll become. And it's not just about being comfortable on camera, it's about being yourself on camera.

The last secret: You build confidence as you go. Don’t wait until you feel ready at the beginning, just start. And your confidence will grow.

I think true comfort on camera comes from a deep understanding that we are all meant to share our unique perspectives and experiences with the world.

If I could go back and start YouTube all over again, I would give myself this advice: Be good to yourself in the process, try to make it as fun as possible, and give it lots of time.

From Nervous to Natural: 3 Steps to Being Comfortable on Camera

Whether you're a YouTuber, a TikToker, or someone who occasionally has to jump on a Zoom c

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