We’ve all seen it. The red light goes on, the countdown begins, and suddenly a confident professional turns into a deer in the headlights.
Their eyes dart around the room, their mouth goes dry, and their hands suddenly feel like awkward weights they’ve never used before. Whether you’re watching the final result in an office or scrolling on your phone at home, you can sense it immediately: the person on screen would rather be anywhere else.
As I prepare to start a new series of short films with a talented team of videographers, I’m reminded that the secret to a great video isn't just the lens or the lighting—it’s the Yin.
The Balance of the Shoot
In the world of video capture, you have the "Yang"—the technical energy, the heavy gear, the lights, and the schedule. But without the Yin—the calming influence—the person in front of the lens can easily freeze.
With my years of experience in front of audiences, I’ve learned that nerves are actually a tool. They focus the mind and sharpen the senses. But without a guide, those nerves turn into "the deer":
- The Wandering Gaze: Looking at the floor or the ceiling instead of the person watching.
- The Statue Syndrome: Forgetting to move naturally or smile.
- The Internal Panic: That voice that says, "I can't do this."
Why a Guide Matters
No amount of "you're doing great" from a distance can settle a nervous presenter. It takes someone right there in the trenches with them. My role is to be that steadying force—the one who checks if the hair is okay, listens to the tone, and reminds them to breathe.
I love helping people who are convinced they "aren't good on camera." We work through the dry mouth and the hand-fidgeting until the "deer" vanishes and the real person emerges.
The Ultimate "Result"
There is a specific moment I aim for on every production. It’s that second after I say "cut" and the person relaxes, looks at me, and says:
"That was nowhere near as scary as I thought it was going to be!"
To me, that’s a !result. When we bring a bit of calm to the chaos, we don't just get a video, we get a genuine connection.
I'm looking forward to bringing this calming energy to my upcoming film series. If you have a project coming up where the talent might be a little "camera-shy," let’s talk.