Camera shy? Here’s how to fight the fear of being on camera

Did you know that the fear of public speaking is America’s biggest phobia?

Seriously!

More Americans are afraid of public speaking than they are of heights, snakes, clowns, and even death.

It makes sense, then, that many people are hesitant to speak on camera. Sure, there might not be a crowd behind the camera as you're filming, but the knowledge that hundreds or even thousands of people will see the video might be enough to intimidate you.

At Rolla, we know that real estate agents who use video in their marketing grow their revenue 49% faster than those who don’t.

This is why we want to encourage you to be bold. Our products are designed to guide you towards making videos that are actually effective and helpful for your potential clients.

And now, we want to help empower you to feel confident on camera.

You already have the tools you need to be successful. You have the knowledge, experience, and passion to help people. Now, all you have to do is showcase those qualities on camera!

Here’s how:

1. Be yourself. Yes, this sounds oversimplified and maybe a little cheesy, but hear us out. Once the camera turns on, it’s tempting to turn on your “news broadcaster voice.” Agents want to sound confident and excited on camera, but using that “newsy” voice makes them feel phony or salesy. Buyers and sellers want authenticity. They don’t want to see a caricature of a real estate agent. They want to see you. Do they trust you? Are you knowledgeable? Are you likeable? Trust that you are enough — and trust that when they see your face and hear your voice, a connection will be made that will hopefully translate into a real-life lead.

2. Envision a client. If you’re still struggling to be yourself on camera, envision a specific, individual client. Seriously, think of one person and hold their name in the back of your mind. Envision everything about this client: their face, their hair, what they’re wearing, how they talk, etc. Once you have a firm picture of this client in your mind’s eye, look into the camera and begin talking like you’re talking directly to them. Imagine that they just asked you a question and you’re giving them an answer. When you’re focused on being helpful and providing value to someone, it’s easier to forget that the camera is there.

3. Practice. Public speaking and speaking on camera is a skill. Just as you studied for your real estate exam, you can practice before filming. Try placing a sticky note on the wall and practice talking to that sticky note. The goal is to feel comfortable and natural while talking. Also, pay attention to your eye contact. Are you able to focus on the sticky note? Or are your eyes wandering? If you find that your eyes are darting around, then try to limit your eye movement by imagining that the sticky note is your favorite client from Tip #2. Look at that sticky note and hold that eye contact like you would if you were looking your favorite client in the eye. The viewer will feel that connection and it becomes difficult to look away. Once you’re comfortable speaking with the sticky note, try it with your cell phone camera. Who knows… you might surprise yourself!

4. Take a breath and slow down. It’s normal to shake or shiver when we’re nervous. If you’re feeling anxious about being on camera, chances are that we can hear it in your voice. First, move that excess nervous energy out of your body. Do some jumping jacks, pushups, or running in place. Once your heart rate is up and you need to catch your breath — stop. Now, take a few deep breaths and slow down. By intentionally focusing on your breath before filming, you’ll be able to calm yourself and bring yourself into a healthy headspace. Also, be aware that it’s normal to talk too quickly when you’re nervous. Remind yourself to breathe and slow down if you find that you’re speeding up. Slowing down will also make it easier to keep track of your thoughts!

5. Just start. Sometimes the fear of the unknown is worse than it actually is. If you’ve tried the above four tips and are still fearful of being on camera, just start. Give it a try. If you can, try to tune out or turn off that critical voice in your head. The process of simply getting started can help shake-off some of that fear. If you still find yourself feeling camera shy, remember this: your goal isn’t to impress anyone — your goal is to help people. Once you embrace this principle, it takes a lot of pressure off your shoulders!

By trying these five tips, you’ll be well-equipped to fight the fear of being on camera.

And don’t forget that during this process, you are never alone. Rolla is with you every shot and step of the way.

Whether you’re creating a Topic Video or a Market Update Video, our product will help you craft a script and teach you how to capture the perfect shot.

We’ll edit it within 48 hours to present you in the best light possible.

But most importantly, we will help you provide value to your audience so that you can earn their trust and earn their business.

RELATED: 5 ways the top real estate agents WOW through personality

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