It is definitely something about being recorded for the world to judge that can be crippling. My full-time job is as a plant expert in a large garden center, and during the peak season I am usually surrounded by a mob of people waiting to ask me questions. No problem. I am there to help and love it. Turn the camera on me for my homesteading/gardening channel and I freeze. Which is why my channel is all voice overs. I am going to practice using your advice. I am recording the video for a good friend. I am so loving this channel you have created, and the advice you give. Thank you.
Thanks bud. I’ve been doing UA-cam for about a year and this was pretty much my minimum goal. If nothing else, I’ll just get better at speaking. It’s just practice.
So helpful! In my earliest videos I could only picture a judgmental person watching my videos, it’s slowly getting to where I can envision someone that actually finds it helpful. Thanks for this :)
I have to say that improv is one of the best things I did for myself. You learn to deal with your self critic but is not for everyone. It’s definitely a vulnerable place and I’ve seen many people leave after a few tries.
right? i feel like i have to script because i go off topic bc that’s how i am with my friends i kind of just talk intuitively not mechanically so other people can understand what i am doing or meaning. kevin maybe help us with this??
@@user-nlvmruu I go off topic a lot! So I edit out a bunch of stuff. My edit time would be cut in half probably if I could stay on topic. Then I have to move around clips of the words to make it make sense, LOL!
0:00 🎙 Practice speaking to the camera as if it's your best friend to reduce nervousness and self-judgment. 4:02 📚 Reading regularly helps improve speaking skills by exposing you to different writing styles and structures.
Love it! Thank you for this. I literally do the whole "oh this is weird I'm talking to myself in my backyard thing". But you're right no one is judging me but myself and its just making it worse.
I love these types of videos you have been doing. As a new member to the club, it’s a lot more work than I ever knew. I definitely have a new appreciation for the craft. I have such a bubbly personality when I’m around people but filming is something totally different so thanks for all the great information and inspiration!
Doing frequent livestreams with our Members Section (people I'm most comfortable with who are not family/IRL friends) has helped a ton. They are close enough to be comfortable messing up but not so close that I'm not somewhat trying to be presentable LOL
@SageandStoneHomestead I found your channel recently and love it. You seem so comfortable in front of the camera. You do such a great job on your videos.
Dude all your videos are amazing, from the gardening, to these types of videos. Sometimes feels like you’re one of the only real people on this platform lol keep it up brother👍
Great advice that ill take to heart. Performing in any capacity helps as well, in theater, dance, or music. I grew up doing regular music recitals so I got an intro to public appearances early on.
So good to hear you are also a Toastmaster. I am a Food blogger, and when I tell other bloggers that I am taking public speaking classes, they look very skeptical. It was great to hear you validate my thoughts!
I have been following your garden channel for a few years now. Learned today that you are a fellow Toastmaster! Great program, highly recommend it to any one speaking "in public". Thank you for all your advice about speaking on video, very helpful.
Great video! Love this series you're puttin gout. I've always been so impressed by your ability to speak well - entertaining, eloquent, comfortable, comprehensive. You check all the boxes!
Love how active this channel has become. I know it's not as much content focused but would love to see a video about your warehouse management, turns, stock levels, etc.
Funny every struggle I'm dealing with as I'm producing now, your new content seems to predict. Thank you for the insight again and picking back up on this channel to share the wisdom you've gained through experience.
This was super helpful! Public speaking has been a new adventure in my life... not on my terms - I get the offer and I dont see why I wouldnt do it! But That damn comfort zone 😂 Its amazing the growth that comes once you push yourself into discomfort.
Very impressed with your ability to speak clearly with what seems to be no cuts or breaks. My videos are heavily edited to clean up the audio. Will try your suggestion.
"Damn, I am DRY AS HELL" :,D I know in your last video you were saying you didnt want this to be like, how to youtube channel kind of thing, but I am loving your outlook on the creation process and all the knowledge you gleam. Thank you!
Great video dude! I'm new to creating on UA-cam and this is EXACTLY what I've been working on and learning how to improve. You really offered some invaluable advice I'm going to implement. Also, the improv thing is spot on!!!!
Love it!! Some of my best videos were when I had someone filming with me and we did it together. But when I don’t have that interaction I definitely struggle. During my career I was actually was made to hold public presentations for about 10 to 20 people and actually became quite comfortable doing this, most likely because I had someone to interact with weather it was eye contact or answering a question. So this video really gives me some ideas on how to overcome the poor flow some of my videos have. Thanks!! Enjoy your day.
I graduated back in 2002 (giving you an idea on how school was for my generation) & was REQUIRED to take Speech in order to graduate. I hated going up in front of the class all the time, but honestly, GLAD, I took the class, cause it does make it easier now to go in front of a group of people, not just because I'm older & don't really care what people think. Now, it's not a requirement, & my 2 oldest daughters have social anxiety 🤦
Thank you. I've been trying to make videos for a long while now (consistently) and watching this right now made me realize that I've been speaking to the camera wrong and that's why I sound like I do... Monotonous... I have been teaching for over 10 years, but talking to a camera makes me nervous... And it's just me getting in my own head...
That’s so interesting you brought up improv as improving your public speaking skills. I was involved in improv for about 5 years (both in classes and with a improv troupe) and there was a businessman that joined our class specifically to learn how to become a better public speaker for his profession. It was amazing to see his transformation from a stiff to a very “yes - and” kinda guy. He loved it so much he stayed with the class for years and joined a troupe. Highly recommend taking an improv class to boost confidence and it’s just SO much fun as well! 😁👍🏻
Haha I almost feel like this video is a direct response to my comment on your other vid the other day! My inability to just riff coherently is less about confidence and more about disorganized thoughts ... which I suppose is probably a better problem to have. I think subject knowledge is also a big factor. Anyway, great job! I'm gonna have to give this a try on my own channel (not that Mr. Applebottom thing tho)
@@kevinmespirituthis ^ although you are speaking to the camera you are in fact directing some of your content to your audience . Although you said nobody cares, by replying to individual comments and even addressing concerns of comments that you created this vid...it seems like you care. This genuine act of teaching others to garden or give a UA-cam video or whatever content you choose to do has propelled you success with your capacity for understanding. Far from monotone, your facial expressions, costumes and laughter with Jaques through the years are endearing and keep some of us tuning in. When it is said that nobody cares, some in your audience actually do. Congratulations on having a girlfriend, wish you health & happiness in your present and future. 🎉
Toastmasters changed my life. I was thrilled to hear you recommend finding and joining a club to those watching. Learning to speak confidently in public has allowed me opportunities I never would have had without that skill. Thank you for the great tips!!
Dude, this was really great. As someone who seriously struggles with being natural in front of the camera, I so appreciate you sharing your no nonsense approach, and the experiences that helped you build your confidence and skills. Looking forward to more real talk with Kevin!
Great video, very helpful. We are a travel vlog and in the beginning of the first at least 10 videos both myself and Natalie would get a little nervous infront of the camera because were always in public, now i still sometimes do get nervous but it is definitely much less. But reading, toastmasters and improv are definitely great suggestions and something we will look into more. Thank you for the great content and sharing your years of knowledge with the community!
Yeah, speaking in public is definitely more nerve-wracking! Eventually you realize no one truly cares, but it takes a bit to get there. Good luck with the channel!
That was very helpful Kevin. I’ve been trying to make a video for a week now and I keep getting caught up in my own head. I will practice this weekend, talking to my friend, my friend, the camera thanks again
Thank you for the video & info. It took me quite a while to get the confidence to speak into a camera. I had no confidence at all in the beginning but it did grow over time. Now we are constantly Youtubing everywhere! Big cheers from Melbourne 🍷!
One of the reasons, I have maintained a watch on your videos is the easy going manner in which you present your content. You have been blessed with a calm soothing voice, a knack for getting to the point, knowing when to wrap up and an ability to steadily speak without constant um, uh and duh, not to mention the trendy and annoying to me, upspeak, that plagued “Generation Y” and beyond. Your playful antics with Jacque and your humble disposition puts fun in your gardening channel. Especially important is your knack to be neutral and matter of fact when offering honest critique on gardening hacks and the like. It will be a treat to have you expand your topics and the experiences that have brought you where you are today.
Speaking as a trained but amateur musician, this is as much a performance art as anything on stage or on the screen, so the only way to get good at it is practice, practice, record and critically observe yourself, practice, practice. I would imagine most people hate the sound of their own voices (I can't stand to hear recordings of myself), so that's a hurdle to overcome here. When it comes to recorded videos vs streaming, people often don't realize that those are 2 different skills. When you're recording an edited piece, it always pays to record as much as you can to get the best possible takes to camera. One thing I've noticed about UA-camrs is that they take this to mean, get the best takes possible within the schedule you've set for yourself and string the ones that don't sound horrible together. That kinda works, but the really good UA-camrs take the time to get longer takes that are easier to stitch together in editing, to avoid the jarring jump cuts that seem to be a hallmark of the platform. One channel I watch (Tom Sanladerer) took the time to build his own teleprompter so he could get better and longer takes. With streaming, it's basically improvisation, and the way to get good at that in jazz is to master your instrument first, then do it, again and again. It's like sight reading without the sheet music. If you're not good at the game, if you can make it funny that could work as a kind of improv act, but I have to warn everyone that this kind of comedy is a much smaller niche.
Thank you for your suggestions! This is a really helpful video. My kids used to take a writing class from a gifted writer who focused a lot on writing from your gut, which was different from your heart or your head. I hadn't thought about applying that to speaking, but it makes a lot of sense!
Ohhh I feel so called out. 🤣 One thing I try to keep in mind is that it sometimes just comes down to what we are acclimated to. And we aren't acclimated to seeing ourselves from the outside or hearing our own voices, so we see the flaws. If I were actually talking to my best friend, they've seen me enough times that they don't even see or hear those flaws that I see. That weird voice we hear ISN'T weird to everyone else because that's all they know. They don't hear the better sounding voice that's inside our head for comparison 🤣 so it's not weird to them. And they certainly aren't comparing our features to so-and-so like we do with ourselves. (And let's just be honest, if they are, they don't matter anyway!) It's still hard though. We tend to carry past traumas with us and let them win more often than they should. But that's exactly when I try to remind myself that no one is judging me like I'm judging myself, so maybe I shouldn't.
Could not agree more about improv. I am in my 50’s and was a performer for years. I saw many people over the years come out of there shell and really embrace and enjoy performing…….
I had to take a public speaking course in college. The final exam was a 5 minute speech, with no notes. I needed to practice pretty much every day to memorize the information but it definitely was a good experience.
I’ve been watching you for 5 years and I really appreciate these kinds of videos. I think that I’m okay about talking to camera, I just hate my voice on camera when I go to edit.
thanks, Kevin before i started UA-cam it was weird to see myself on camera but been better it's not so weird anymore so thanks for making this video love all of your channels you have been and the good advise thanks.
I've presented to live audiences for years prior to covid, but only started filming YT videos since. I've really struggled with this, especially in my last few films. I presented to my first live audience dince covid last week, and was amazed at my improv, and feeding off individuals in the crowd. Was such a buzz, I'm going to try and apply that feel to my next film
I'm uploading my first "talking to the camera" video Friday. Wish I found this before I recorded it. I will definitely use this information in future videos. Thank you!
Kevin, Thanks for this video! I'm a (work from home) trainer by vocation, so making videos doesn't bother me EXCEPT (as you mentioned "stop judging yourself.") I hate watching my trainings/videos. The big one I struggle with is a lot of umms and uhhs. I really appreciate you sharing your own experience and how you've developed your skills. You make really good points about speed and intonation (I tend to go too fast and keep the same tone!) It for sure takes practice - I took some udemy courses on speaking and instructional design and learned a lot of what you're talking about, but still struggle to implement it!
Really awesome video. I wish I heard this advice years ago when I first starting filming reels on Instagram. I appreciate the insight Kevin, thank you! One of my year's resolution was to create longer videos for my UA-cam channel after getting over the anxiety you described. Looking forward to applying what you said for the next video I make ✨
Omg I’m everything you have said.. I say a thousand ums.. I don’t have good jokes, I voice over.. I don’t like looking at myself on screen and I don’t like listening to myself. I don’t know how to stop this self judgment 😂😂🙈🙈🙈 How on earth you can speak without even one cut of the frame in this video😅😅you are definitely a pro.
Not sure you speak another language (perhaps Tagalog?) but what you said about the musicality of the language is indeed essential to come across smoothly especially if it is not your mother tongue. I still am way more conscious when speaking in English in front of a camera to get the right cadence of English. Luckily I’m a better editor than presenter so people don’t imagine the many takes I do until I sense that the segment was at least passable. Doing a no cuts recording inevitably leads to unnecessary tangents and half idea. You are quite gifted in speaking plainly and keeping the structure tight. I do think this has been the differential for your videos.
Yes, I'm not fluent in any other language but semi conversational in Spanish only, unfortunately I don't know any Tagalog. I think you don't give yourself enough credit for your speaking skills though!
I had to sit and listen to the top people in a company i worked for talk. And we counted 176 "um's" and "uh's". 2 coaching candidates for the Seahawks do this same thing. If i was hiring them, that would put me off. It's good to learn, if you do things like that, to correct those. A club like you mention would be good for everybody to do.
Thanks a lot! These seem to be very good tips and this video was recommended to me at the right time. Since I want to give something back: I would recommend using a lavaliere mic that pic up less of your room.
In filmmaking when I've directed I like to place a small stuffed animal or plastic toy on top of the camera or somewhere that I want the actors to focus on. It really helps. I like that you are looking at a dot. Try a small plastic toy attached to the camera, as looking at a physical object really helps.
@@kevinmespiritu I should add... that I just got my OSMO Pocket 3, and the gimbal is a great place to look at... :) I should have said it depends on the camera size what to put for a focal point. I've only used a stuffed animal once - actress insisted on using a small Koala (whatever) - other times I used a small green toy soldier, or even a dashboard troll. And you can attach these to a rod away from the camera so that they don't break the 4th wall unless that is what you want. In a vlog or interview that would not matter. :)
Reading out loud, I think that is what you were referring to, and I agree especially if what you are reading has different characters in it that you can express by changing your voice, or cadence, etc. Also, standing in front of a mirror and talking to your mirror self can get you use to seeing yourself on video, so that when you are in front of the camera, you can amp up your performance so that you appear more engaging. (LOL! I should take my own advice! Actually, I have but I could do it more to become better at it.) Another thing you could do is put a picture of someone you are comfortable talking to in real life, right above the camera Lense, then look at that picture while recording in the same way you'd look at that person in real life. There, that's my 2.5 cents worth ;) the .5 is for inflation :)
I had a habit of using both hands when pointing at something. They would be in the praying position. Once I saw it on camera, I stopped doing it. Thanks for sharing your tips.
Good Morning Mr. Kevin.. I personally haven’t experienced a problem with speaking, hints the name Ms Lippy; but with that being said - I’ve learned to slow down and not TALK too much, lol. Thank you for the Great advice and tools you shared with us.
Awesome tips Kevin cheers. I've been doing YT for 6 years or so, I started during a break up i needed something to focus on. I hate absolutely hate how I sound on camera, I have a strong accent, I'm a bit thick really, my verbal comms are not that great at the best of times, the crap I have to edit out to make myself sound semi literate is insane. When I'm in a good head space I see a huge difference in my presentation, for me it's a confidence thing. I've never been a great reader, I can read to myself no issues, but reading out loud I'm fecking useless, even when I used to read to my kids I tried to make everything rhyme it was embarrassing. I Also hate being on camera when others are around, I once went to Hong Kong, and Korea, I could not believe how many folk were out there doing their thing without anyone batting an eyelid. Having said all that I love creating videos from nothing, and I am very confident in my ability to shoot photos, so I'll keep at it and try to implement some of your advise. Liked and subbed mate thanks for the reality check.
"Its your internal feelings toward yourself that is the issue" gem of truth right there
Indeed
This dude drops so many truth bombs. - if you ever say the algorithm hates you, you already lost the game
That part!!
Very informative video. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Have a great day.👍👏
It is definitely something about being recorded for the world to judge that can be crippling. My full-time job is as a plant expert in a large garden center, and during the peak season I am usually surrounded by a mob of people waiting to ask me questions. No problem. I am there to help and love it. Turn the camera on me for my homesteading/gardening channel and I freeze. Which is why my channel is all voice overs. I am going to practice using your advice. I am recording the video for a good friend. I am so loving this channel you have created, and the advice you give. Thank you.
Just remember, you don't even see them if they do judge you so there are truly are no stakes
At the same time don’t be so hard on yourself because many people don’t care and just be yourself and continue to try. That’s all that matters.
@@GenXJim1 Thank you. Good advice.
Thank you Kevin, you are truly a natural and it feels that you are speaking to us, your audience, not just the camera. Congratulations
Coach Kev out here making sure everybody wins 💯
Taking it to another level. Kudos 🤜💥🤛
💯💯💯
Thanks bud. I’ve been doing UA-cam for about a year and this was pretty much my minimum goal. If nothing else, I’ll just get better at speaking. It’s just practice.
That's a great way to look at it
So helpful! In my earliest videos I could only picture a judgmental person watching my videos, it’s slowly getting to where I can envision someone that actually finds it helpful. Thanks for this :)
The beauty is if they are judgmental, then that's on them. Not on you!
I have to say that improv is one of the best things I did for myself. You learn to deal with your self critic but is not for everyone. It’s definitely a vulnerable place and I’ve seen many people leave after a few tries.
Absolutely, improv is so killer for combatting the inner critic
Thank you, Kevin. My challenge is forming original, concise thoughts and getting my brain to play nice with my mouth.😅
right? i feel like i have to script because i go off topic bc that’s how i am with my friends i kind of just talk intuitively not mechanically so other people can understand what i am doing or meaning. kevin maybe help us with this??
It is a challenge! Nothing wrong with starting with bullet points or even a light script
@@user-nlvmruu I go off topic a lot! So I edit out a bunch of stuff. My edit time would be cut in half probably if I could stay on topic. Then I have to move around clips of the words to make it make sense, LOL!
0:00 🎙 Practice speaking to the camera as if it's your best friend to reduce nervousness and self-judgment.
4:02 📚 Reading regularly helps improve speaking skills by exposing you to different writing styles and structures.
I don’t know why this was recommended to me, but since I speak on camera for a living, I figured I could learn a thing or two. Nice work bro.
Cool that it was!
Love it! Thank you for this. I literally do the whole "oh this is weird I'm talking to myself in my backyard thing". But you're right no one is judging me but myself and its just making it worse.
I love these types of videos you have been doing. As a new member to the club, it’s a lot more work than I ever knew. I definitely have a new appreciation for the craft. I have such a bubbly personality when I’m around people but filming is something totally different so thanks for all the great information and inspiration!
Good luck on it!
Doing frequent livestreams with our Members Section (people I'm most comfortable with who are not family/IRL friends) has helped a ton. They are close enough to be comfortable messing up but not so close that I'm not somewhat trying to be presentable LOL
one could start a channel with the sole purpose of talking to other members to increase camera confidence and probably do well
@@CoconutPete I bet you're right! You could lead the way!!
I love this perspective!
@@kevinmespiritu thanks!
@SageandStoneHomestead I found your channel recently and love it. You seem so comfortable in front of the camera. You do such a great job on your videos.
Dude all your videos are amazing, from the gardening, to these types of videos. Sometimes feels like you’re one of the only real people on this platform lol keep it up brother👍
I appreciate that!
"Im pretending that its you" 🥺 "Actually, Im pretending that its someone that I care about" 😭
LOL
Great advice that ill take to heart. Performing in any capacity helps as well, in theater, dance, or music. I grew up doing regular music recitals so I got an intro to public appearances early on.
So good to hear you are also a Toastmaster. I am a Food blogger, and when I tell other bloggers that I am taking public speaking classes, they look very skeptical. It was great to hear you validate my thoughts!
Wise decision!
I have been following your garden channel for a few years now. Learned today that you are a fellow Toastmaster! Great program, highly recommend it to any one speaking "in public". Thank you for all your advice about speaking on video, very helpful.
Glad you enjoyed!
Great video! Love this series you're puttin gout. I've always been so impressed by your ability to speak well - entertaining, eloquent, comfortable, comprehensive. You check all the boxes!
Kind of you to say 😍
Love how active this channel has become. I know it's not as much content focused but would love to see a video about your warehouse management, turns, stock levels, etc.
Great suggestion
Very helpful! This makes a lot of sense. Thanks for the video!
Thanks. Great to hear you talk openly and share more of your story ... it's very helpful!
Thank you! I just started video content creation and watching and listening to myself back is … difficult. Thank you, Kevin!
Funny every struggle I'm dealing with as I'm producing now, your new content seems to predict. Thank you for the insight again and picking back up on this channel to share the wisdom you've gained through experience.
Glad it's helpful
Really loving this casual format! Thank you so much for these great tips. 👍🏽
You're so welcome!
Great advice Kev
This was super helpful! Public speaking has been a new adventure in my life... not on my terms - I get the offer and I dont see why I wouldnt do it!
But That damn comfort zone 😂
Its amazing the growth that comes once you push yourself into discomfort.
Couldn't agree more.
Very impressed with your ability to speak clearly with what seems to be no cuts or breaks. My videos are heavily edited to clean up the audio. Will try your suggestion.
Give it a shot!
"Damn, I am DRY AS HELL" :,D
I know in your last video you were saying you didnt want this to be like, how to youtube channel kind of thing, but I am loving your outlook on the creation process and all the knowledge you gleam. Thank you!
Glad you’re enjoying
Amazing video Kevin! Really, great job! Super helpful. Very timely.
Great video dude! I'm new to creating on UA-cam and this is EXACTLY what I've been working on and learning how to improve. You really offered some invaluable advice I'm going to implement.
Also, the improv thing is spot on!!!!
Glad to hear you enjoyed!
Love it!! Some of my best videos were when I had someone filming with me and we did it together. But when I don’t have that interaction I definitely struggle. During my career I was actually was made to hold public presentations for about 10 to 20 people and actually became quite comfortable doing this, most likely because I had someone to interact with weather it was eye contact or answering a question. So this video really gives me some ideas on how to overcome the poor flow some of my videos have. Thanks!! Enjoy your day.
Glad to hear this :)
This is gold! You're the third or fourth person that mentioned improv as a tool to grow. Gonna do it!! Really great stuff here!!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you bro still finding my voice. God bless you bro!
Great video! The more you do it, the more comfortable it becomes. And the beauty of recording is that you can re-record until you are satisfied.
I graduated back in 2002 (giving you an idea on how school was for my generation) & was REQUIRED to take Speech in order to graduate. I hated going up in front of the class all the time, but honestly, GLAD, I took the class, cause it does make it easier now to go in front of a group of people, not just because I'm older & don't really care what people think. Now, it's not a requirement, & my 2 oldest daughters have social anxiety 🤦
Yeah I really feel that it should be back in school curriculum!
You are a very intelligent person, Kevin. Thanks for sharing and inspiring others to grow and be better.🌻
So nice of you
Wonderful video, well done, Kevin
Thank you. I've been trying to make videos for a long while now (consistently) and watching this right now made me realize that I've been speaking to the camera wrong and that's why I sound like I do... Monotonous... I have been teaching for over 10 years, but talking to a camera makes me nervous... And it's just me getting in my own head...
It is! You'll improve
That’s so interesting you brought up improv as improving your public speaking skills. I was involved in improv for about 5 years (both in classes and with a improv troupe) and there was a businessman that joined our class specifically to learn how to become a better public speaker for his profession. It was amazing to see his transformation from a stiff to a very “yes - and” kinda guy. He loved it so much he stayed with the class for years and joined a troupe. Highly recommend taking an improv class to boost confidence and it’s just SO much fun as well! 😁👍🏻
So awesome to hear this
Haha I almost feel like this video is a direct response to my comment on your other vid the other day! My inability to just riff coherently is less about confidence and more about disorganized thoughts ... which I suppose is probably a better problem to have. I think subject knowledge is also a big factor. Anyway, great job! I'm gonna have to give this a try on my own channel (not that Mr. Applebottom thing tho)
It absolutely was a response to that comment of yours!
@@kevinmespirituthis ^ although you are speaking to the camera you are in fact directing some of your content to your audience . Although you said nobody cares, by replying to individual comments and even addressing concerns of comments that you created this vid...it seems like you care. This genuine act of teaching others to garden or give a UA-cam video or whatever content you choose to do has propelled you success with your capacity for understanding. Far from monotone, your facial expressions, costumes and laughter with Jaques through the years are endearing and keep some of us tuning in. When it is said that nobody cares, some in your audience actually do. Congratulations on having a girlfriend, wish you health & happiness in your present and future. 🎉
Toastmasters changed my life. I was thrilled to hear you recommend finding and joining a club to those watching. Learning to speak confidently in public has allowed me opportunities I never would have had without that skill. Thank you for the great tips!!
Wonderful! It did a lot for me too
Dude, this was really great. As someone who seriously struggles with being natural in front of the camera, I so appreciate you sharing your no nonsense approach, and the experiences that helped you build your confidence and skills. Looking forward to more real talk with Kevin!
Awesome! Thank you! More to come
Every word that you said was right on point. Especially the improv
Thank you for the info. Now I know why you seem so genuine on camera
Thank you for not dumbing it down. You use big words like genre and I appreciate that. You assume the person you’re talking to is intelligent :-)
Great video, very helpful. We are a travel vlog and in the beginning of the first at least 10 videos both myself and Natalie would get a little nervous infront of the camera because were always in public, now i still sometimes do get nervous but it is definitely much less. But reading, toastmasters and improv are definitely great suggestions and something we will look into more. Thank you for the great content and sharing your years of knowledge with the community!
Yeah, speaking in public is definitely more nerve-wracking! Eventually you realize no one truly cares, but it takes a bit to get there. Good luck with the channel!
That was very helpful Kevin. I’ve been trying to make a video for a week now and I keep getting caught up in my own head. I will practice this weekend, talking to my friend, my friend, the camera thanks again
Keep it up!
Thank you for the video & info. It took me quite a while to get the confidence to speak into a camera. I had no confidence at all in the beginning but it did grow over time. Now we are constantly Youtubing everywhere! Big cheers from Melbourne 🍷!
Absolutely love to hear this! Small steps really add up
One of the reasons, I have maintained a watch on your videos is the easy going manner in which you present your content. You have been blessed with a calm soothing voice, a knack for getting to the point, knowing when to wrap up and an ability to steadily speak without constant um, uh and duh, not to mention the trendy and annoying to me, upspeak, that plagued “Generation Y” and beyond.
Your playful antics with Jacque and your humble disposition puts fun in your gardening channel. Especially important is your knack to be neutral and matter of fact when offering honest critique on gardening hacks and the like.
It will be a treat to have you expand your topics and the experiences that have brought you where you are today.
Appreciate this breakdown, always cool to see an outside perspective
Love the point about reading!
Speaking as a trained but amateur musician, this is as much a performance art as anything on stage or on the screen, so the only way to get good at it is practice, practice, record and critically observe yourself, practice, practice. I would imagine most people hate the sound of their own voices (I can't stand to hear recordings of myself), so that's a hurdle to overcome here.
When it comes to recorded videos vs streaming, people often don't realize that those are 2 different skills. When you're recording an edited piece, it always pays to record as much as you can to get the best possible takes to camera. One thing I've noticed about UA-camrs is that they take this to mean, get the best takes possible within the schedule you've set for yourself and string the ones that don't sound horrible together. That kinda works, but the really good UA-camrs take the time to get longer takes that are easier to stitch together in editing, to avoid the jarring jump cuts that seem to be a hallmark of the platform. One channel I watch (Tom Sanladerer) took the time to build his own teleprompter so he could get better and longer takes.
With streaming, it's basically improvisation, and the way to get good at that in jazz is to master your instrument first, then do it, again and again. It's like sight reading without the sheet music. If you're not good at the game, if you can make it funny that could work as a kind of improv act, but I have to warn everyone that this kind of comedy is a much smaller niche.
Very well said, I completely agree they are different skill sets. I would be much worse at streaming
Great video. Made me think about what I struggle with when speaking.
Thank you for your suggestions! This is a really helpful video.
My kids used to take a writing class from a gifted writer who focused a lot on writing from your gut, which was different from your heart or your head. I hadn't thought about applying that to speaking, but it makes a lot of sense!
Glad it was helpful
Ohhh I feel so called out. 🤣 One thing I try to keep in mind is that it sometimes just comes down to what we are acclimated to. And we aren't acclimated to seeing ourselves from the outside or hearing our own voices, so we see the flaws. If I were actually talking to my best friend, they've seen me enough times that they don't even see or hear those flaws that I see. That weird voice we hear ISN'T weird to everyone else because that's all they know. They don't hear the better sounding voice that's inside our head for comparison 🤣 so it's not weird to them. And they certainly aren't comparing our features to so-and-so like we do with ourselves. (And let's just be honest, if they are, they don't matter anyway!) It's still hard though. We tend to carry past traumas with us and let them win more often than they should. But that's exactly when I try to remind myself that no one is judging me like I'm judging myself, so maybe I shouldn't.
A thoughtful comment!
Dude, right on! Been performing (music) for decades. “Getting out of your head” is the most important part.
Could not agree more about improv. I am in my 50’s and was a performer for years. I saw many people over the years come out of there shell and really embrace and enjoy performing…….
I had to take a public speaking course in college. The final exam was a 5 minute speech, with no notes. I needed to practice pretty much every day to memorize the information but it definitely was a good experience.
Happy that you did that!
Holy smokes that was deep! Thanks man love it! Going to practice this!
Can I just say......Tremendous speaking tips, Bravo :)
Thank you! 😃
Visualizing the camera as a good friend of yours is such a powerful tactic!
Excellent advice thank you. ❤
I’ve been watching you for 5 years and I really appreciate these kinds of videos. I think that I’m okay about talking to camera, I just hate my voice on camera when I go to edit.
It's common! It goes away eventually
Thank you bro
thanks, Kevin before i started UA-cam it was weird to see myself on camera but been better it's not so weird anymore so thanks for making this video love all of your channels you have been and the good
advise thanks.
Takes time, thanks for the kind words!
Thanks!! I’ll try your tips. I’m definitely new to this, at age 70 😀
Hooked me at 39 seconds. Good content. Saved to watch the last half when I can.
I've presented to live audiences for years prior to covid, but only started filming YT videos since.
I've really struggled with this, especially in my last few films.
I presented to my first live audience dince covid last week, and was amazed at my improv, and feeding off individuals in the crowd.
Was such a buzz, I'm going to try and apply that feel to my next film
I'm loving this video! Outstanding!
So glad!
Wow, appreciate your wisdom on the subject.
keep up the amazing work my man!
I'm uploading my first "talking to the camera" video Friday. Wish I found this before I recorded it. I will definitely use this information in future videos. Thank you!
Best of luck
Thank you for sharing, this is so helpful. Starting on a journey of being less self-judgemental now 😅
haha I loved hearing about Mr. Applebottom. That's hilarious and makes sense how improv could help you in ways you might not expect.
These are some excellent tips, thank you Eric…..😉
Kevin,
Thanks for this video! I'm a (work from home) trainer by vocation, so making videos doesn't bother me EXCEPT (as you mentioned "stop judging yourself.") I hate watching my trainings/videos. The big one I struggle with is a lot of umms and uhhs. I really appreciate you sharing your own experience and how you've developed your skills. You make really good points about speed and intonation (I tend to go too fast and keep the same tone!) It for sure takes practice - I took some udemy courses on speaking and instructional design and learned a lot of what you're talking about, but still struggle to implement it!
Takes some time to get it...every time you speak is practice :)
This was the best advice I have ever received
Really awesome video. I wish I heard this advice years ago when I first starting filming reels on Instagram. I appreciate the insight Kevin, thank you! One of my year's resolution was to create longer videos for my UA-cam channel after getting over the anxiety you described. Looking forward to applying what you said for the next video I make ✨
Best of luck with it :)
True but not everyone is pleasant to look at or listen too . God blessed you with both
Omg I’m everything you have said.. I say a thousand ums.. I don’t have good jokes, I voice over.. I don’t like looking at myself on screen and I don’t like listening to myself. I don’t know how to stop this self judgment 😂😂🙈🙈🙈 How on earth you can speak without even one cut of the frame in this video😅😅you are definitely a pro.
It takes time!
Thank you for the excellent advice, Kevin. Especially the philosophical mindset.
My pleasure!
Not sure you speak another language (perhaps Tagalog?) but what you said about the musicality of the language is indeed essential to come across smoothly especially if it is not your mother tongue. I still am way more conscious when speaking in English in front of a camera to get the right cadence of English. Luckily I’m a better editor than presenter so people don’t imagine the many takes I do until I sense that the segment was at least passable. Doing a no cuts recording inevitably leads to unnecessary tangents and half idea. You are quite gifted in speaking plainly and keeping the structure tight. I do think this has been the differential for your videos.
Yes, I'm not fluent in any other language but semi conversational in Spanish only, unfortunately I don't know any Tagalog. I think you don't give yourself enough credit for your speaking skills though!
@@kevinmespiritu well let’s just say editing does wonders…
Excellent advice, thanks Kevin, cheers! 👍
Very welcome
I’ve been loving your content lately ☺️🤍🩷🎙️
Happy to hear that
as a new youtuber, i really appreciated this info. thank you
Glad it was helpful
First of all, LOVE that Neon Light on wall😮😱❤️❤️❤️
love your stuff, learned a lot, thank you so much
My pleasure
I had to sit and listen to the top people in a company i worked for talk. And we counted 176 "um's" and "uh's". 2 coaching candidates for the Seahawks do this same thing. If i was hiring them, that would put me off. It's good to learn, if you do things like that, to correct those. A club like you mention would be good for everybody to do.
“I don’t have that in my brain.” 😂 is so relatable
Awesome insights!! Thanks Kevin!!
My pleasure!
Thanks a lot! These seem to be very good tips and this video was recommended to me at the right time. Since I want to give something back: I would recommend using a lavaliere mic that pic up less of your room.
Usually do :) just fired this out
@@kevinmespiritu already what's your next video and yes: perfect sound. Thanks for this good stuff!
Your video was very helpful. Thank you!
Thank you so much! I am just starting on UA-cam and this video really helped!
Glad it was helpful!
In filmmaking when I've directed I like to place a small stuffed animal or plastic toy on top of the camera or somewhere that I want the actors to focus on. It really helps. I like that you are looking at a dot. Try a small plastic toy attached to the camera, as looking at a physical object really helps.
That is a fantastic tip
@@kevinmespiritu I should add... that I just got my OSMO Pocket 3, and the gimbal is a great place to look at... :) I should have said it depends on the camera size what to put for a focal point. I've only used a stuffed animal once - actress insisted on using a small Koala (whatever) - other times I used a small green toy soldier, or even a dashboard troll. And you can attach these to a rod away from the camera so that they don't break the 4th wall unless that is what you want. In a vlog or interview that would not matter. :)
Reading out loud, I think that is what you were referring to, and I agree especially if what you are reading has different characters in it that you can express by changing your voice, or cadence, etc. Also, standing in front of a mirror and talking to your mirror self can get you use to seeing yourself on video, so that when you are in front of the camera, you can amp up your performance so that you appear more engaging. (LOL! I should take my own advice! Actually, I have but I could do it more to become better at it.) Another thing you could do is put a picture of someone you are comfortable talking to in real life, right above the camera Lense, then look at that picture while recording in the same way you'd look at that person in real life.
There, that's my 2.5 cents worth ;) the .5 is for inflation :)
These are all awesome suggestions
I had a habit of using both hands when pointing at something. They would be in the praying position. Once I saw it on camera, I stopped doing it. Thanks for sharing your tips.
Interesting!
Great helpful information! Thanks for sharing your advice. I do struggle with this problem. I just can't do it, lol
Good Morning Mr. Kevin.. I personally haven’t experienced a problem with speaking, hints the name Ms Lippy; but with that being said - I’ve learned to slow down and not TALK too much, lol.
Thank you for the Great advice and tools you shared with us.
You have the opposite problem! I love it
Awesome tips Kevin cheers. I've been doing YT for 6 years or so, I started during a break up i needed something to focus on. I hate absolutely hate how I sound on camera, I have a strong accent, I'm a bit thick really, my verbal comms are not that great at the best of times, the crap I have to edit out to make myself sound semi literate is insane. When I'm in a good head space I see a huge difference in my presentation, for me it's a confidence thing. I've never been a great reader, I can read to myself no issues, but reading out loud I'm fecking useless, even when I used to read to my kids I tried to make everything rhyme it was embarrassing. I Also hate being on camera when others are around, I once went to Hong Kong, and Korea, I could not believe how many folk were out there doing their thing without anyone batting an eyelid. Having said all that I love creating videos from nothing, and I am very confident in my ability to shoot photos, so I'll keep at it and try to implement some of your advise. Liked and subbed mate thanks for the reality check.
Man I love the honest comment here. Keep at it. You'll find your lane here and build that community
honesty always beats BS mate cheers @@kevinmespiritu