News

Jul 07, 2023

How to Make a Virtual Speech: Harper College

Thank you for contributing your presentation to Harper College. Below are some tips and tricks on how to shoot your speech from the comfort of your home. Lighting • The best light source in a home is

Thank you for contributing your presentation to Harper College. Below are some tips and tricks on how to shoot your speech from the comfort of your home.

Lighting • The best light source in a home is usually a window • Place yourself looking directly toward the window, using its ambient light • Try to avoid the sun directly hitting your face or squinting • Light appearing from the side or behind won’t look as good

Location • Find a clean and attractive area for your background • Something dignified & attractive is ideal • Avoid anything too busy or too empty • Avoid distracting things like clocks, posters with writing, etc.

Framing • Decide whether to sit or stand • Position the camera at eye level. You can use a tripod, ladder, tall dresser, boxes, books, etc • Turn your camera so it shoots horizontally • Camera should be a little more than an arm’s length away • Keep yourself in the center of the frame • Try not to leave too space above your head (a little space is ok!)

Audio• The environment should be as silent as possible • Turn off music or television • Stop the heating or cooling unit • Have children, family, or pets as far away as possible while recording • Stay close to the camera - a little more than an arm’s length away. If you’re too far away, it’ll sound echoey.

Speech • Write your speech well ahead of time • Practice your speech so you’re comfortable with it • Rewrite until you are happy with its content and style • Feel free to print your speech or bullet points to reference it

Presentation • Consider wearing clothing that presents you professionally • Straighten your posture • Speak directly into the camera lens (not your own image) • Ideally you don’t just read your speech, as you’ll make less eye contact • If you printed your speech or notes, hold it or tape it just below the camera • Speak loudly and confidently • If you make a mistake, simply back up a little bit and start again • We can try remove mistakes, but obviously fewer edits is better • Communicate as if you are sharing your thoughts with real people • Speak from the heart & let your passion shine through!

Finally... • Don’t forget to smile and have fun with it!

Good luck! We look forward to seeing your presentation!