Want to know how to appear more natural, at ease, and dare I say… confident in front of the camera? This one’s for you.
Getting comfortable showing up on camera is a huge barrier for a lot of aspiring content creators.
And I get it, it took me literally years to let my Instagram community even hear my voice. YEARS.
Despite creating content online since 2016, I didn’t start speaking on camera until 2019. And now? I basically never shut up (in the best way, I hope ).
But that shift didn’t happen overnight. Building camera confidence is a skill. Just like editing, writing captions, or learning SEO — it takes practice.
So if you’re wondering how to be more confident on camera, or even just how to look more confident (because yes, faking it till you make it is totally legit), I’ve got you.
Start Here: You Don’t Have to Be Someone You’re Not
Before we even get into the tips, let’s get something straight: You don’t need to become a different person to show up confidently on camera.
You don’t need to be ultra-bubbly, perfectly poised, or super loud if that’s not your vibe.
When I first started filming, I was convinced that no one would want to watch me because I wasn’t high-energy or “entertaining” enough. But now, I get comments all the time saying people love my calm, steady delivery.
So remember: You are for somebody.
Let your natural energy shine through. That’s where authentic camera confidence really begins.
1. Stop the Shifty Eyes
This one’s small but mighty: look into the lens, not at yourself in the LCD screen.
If you’re constantly glancing at your notes, your flip screen, or off to the side, it distracts from your message and makes you look less confident — even if you’re not feeling that way.
Quick Fixes:
- Get your framing right, then flip the screen away.
- If you’re using notes, pause between sentences and glance down only when needed.
- Try not to break eye contact mid-sentence — wait until your thought is complete.
2. It’s Okay for Your Eyes to Wander (Strategically)
Now the above doesn’t mean have a staring contest with the camera. Think about real-world conversations.
When you’re chatting with a friend, do you stare into their eyes the entire time without blinking?
No. That’s weird. And intense.
Let your eyes naturally wander upward or to the side when you’re thinking. It makes it feel like you’re pulling from memory rather than a script. It’s a subtle trick that makes you look more at ease, natural, and yes, more confident on camera.
3. Find the Right Note Style for You
Some people thrive with a full script, others do better with bullet points. Both are valid.
I personally script word-for-word because:
- I ramble. A lot.
- It keeps me (semi) focused and organized.
- It helps cut down on editing time
Try both methods and see what makes you feel most confident on camera.
4. Pretend You’re on a FaceTime Rant
This is one of my favourite little mindset tricks.
When you go to film your next video, think: “I’m FaceTiming a friend and telling them something I’m excited about.”
It instantly takes the pressure off. Suddenly, it’s a conversation.
If you’re still really nervous, start by filming yourself talking on Instatram Stories or TikTok. This is actually how I first dipped my toe into talking to the camera. The casual vibe of these mediums helps loosen you up.
5. You’re Not Performing — You’re Sharing
Remember that you’re not putting on a show, trying to memorize something for a play.
You’re just… talking about something that you probably are actually quite knowledgeable in.
This is especially the case if you’re creating content about your own life lessons. But whether you’re sharing tips, telling a story, or just being real about your day, remember that you’re the expert of your own experience.
You don’t have to “act like you know,” because you do know.
6. Turn Up the Energy (Just a Bit)
Here’s the thing: Cameras dull your energy.
What feels like “normal” to you in real life, may come across as flat on video. That’s why I recommend dialling up your energy by about 10–25%.
Not in a fake way. Just in a “let your excitement come through” way.
Try this:
- Film yourself at different energy levels (10%, 50%, 100%)
- Watch the footage back and find your sweet spot
- Stick with the level that feels like you, but slightly elevated
Your 100% may be someone else’s 50% — and that’s okay. You do you, just a little bolder.
7. Move Your Body
Confidence isn’t just in your voice — it’s in your body language.
Let yourself:
- Gesture with your hands
- Adjust your seat
- Touch your hair
- Shift your weight
All those little movements make you seem relaxed and natural — like you’re having a real conversation, not reading a script.
8. Do Something While You Talk
Ever notice how Get Ready With Me videos feel so effortless?
That’s because the creator is doing something while talking. And that makes them appear more confident on camera — even if they’re not.
Try:
- Doing your makeup
- Making coffee
- Packing a bag
- Walking around
Multitasking gives your body something to do, which can ease the nerves and make your content more dynamic.
9. Get Physically Comfortable
Where you’re filming matters.
If you feel stiff, robotic, or like you’re “on stage,” try filming:
- On your couch
- Leaning on your desk
- Sitting cross-legged on the floor
I’ve noticed that when I’m physically relaxed, my delivery is so much more natural, and I need way fewer takes.
Your body posture affects your voice, facial expressions, and how confident you appear. So set yourself up to feel good — your audience will feel it too.
10. Get Uncomfortable (on Purpose)
Okay… hear me out.
If you want to really build camera confidence, start practicing in situations that stretch you a little.
- Filming with someone else in the room (yes, even if it’s awkward at first)
- Recording outside in public
- Vlogging in a coffee shop
Once you’ve done that, filming in the privacy of your bedroom will feel like a breeze.
My personal turning point? Filming while my husband was in the room. At first, I made him leave, close the door, and put on headphones. Now? He helps me film. And I feel way more confident on camera because I pushed through that discomfort.
Bonus: Practice, Practice, Practice
I know it sounds cliché, but it’s true.
Camera confidence comes from repetition.
Film often — even if you don’t post it.
Watch yourself back (kindly).
Notice what’s working.
Notice what’s not.
Tweak and try again.
You don’t need to get it perfect — just keep going.