Choose your location

• If using a green screen or backdrop, select a space large enough to stand 3-4’ away from the screen.

• Common studio space is a 10’x10’ footprint in 15’x15’ room.

• If no backdrop is being used, find a spot with pleasing and non-distracting décor. Remember, everything in your shot communicates and people are analyzing it.

• Any windows should be in front of you, never behind you.

Green Screen

• Ensure there are no wrinkles or shadows cast on it.

• Make sure you are centered on the screen.

Bandwidth

• Make sure you have strong bandwidth with at least 5 mbps up if you are broadcasting live.

• Test your speed at https://www.speedtest.net/

Lighting

• Use a lamp or natural light from a window.

• No shadows.

• Ideally, you’ll have backlight, key and side light, as well as light from directly in front of you.

• You’ll want even lighting on your face, with few or no shadows. Be mindful of too much light creating lighting hot spots.

• Light backdrop screen separately from the subject with less light than the subject.

• Avoid any backlighting, like a window, which creates silhouettes.

Audio

• Hide mic cables from camera view.

• Don’t use a headset. Invest in a USB lavaliere mic or earbuds with built in microphone. Make sure devices are charged before shooting.

• Make sure everything on your set is quiet before going live. Listen for motors, fans, dogs, sirens, and other noise makers.

Camera Settings

• If using an upgraded camera, fast shutter speeds are better, 1/100th shutter speed with a 180-degree shutter angle simulated in postproduction.

• Expose for the foreground, not the background.

• Camera at eye height or just above.

Graphics / Monitor

• Don’t get distracted by your own image in the monitor. Minimize and focus on your presentation.

• Have someone else advance your graphics if possible.

• Do not stare at your graphics in the monitor, keep your eye line focused on the camera.

• If that is not an option, make sure your presenter view is directly below your camera, so your eye line does not appear to drop.

Subject  

• Stand a few feet away from screen.

• Center yourself in your frame. Don’t leave excessive headroom above you.

• When presenting, stand up if possible. It keeps your energy level up.

• If sitting, do not lean into your webcam. Try not to slouch or fidget. Use a stationary chair that doesn’t swivel. Avoid high-backed chair. It should not be visible behind you.