We’re so excited to welcome you into the GNAT-TV studio to film a PSA or video announcement! Whether you’ve been on camera dozens of times or are brand-new to filming, it can be a little nerve-wracking to be in the spotlight. We want to help you feel your best on camera, so please ask as many questions as you need—our producers want to make your experience as smooth as ever.
What to Expect at the Studio
When you arrive, we’ll show you into the studio where the cameras and lights will be ready. We’ll have you clip on a lav mic and feed the wire underneath your shirt so it doesn’t show. It’s best to wear an outfit with pockets so you have somewhere to tuck the transmitter. Next, we’ll show you where to stand or sit, and you can chat normally with a producer while we test the sound levels. We’ll hit record, and you can take it away! Things move very quickly in the studio and sometimes it can be overwhelming, so take some time to prepare before you come to film.
How to Get Comfortable on Camera
Even some GNAT-TV staff get a little nervous on camera, but we’re sharing the secret ingredients to feeling more comfortable in the studio. To prepare for being on camera, keep these quick tips in mind:
- Take a few sips of water before filming to relax, ground yourself, and prevent a dry mouth.
- Before stepping in front of the camera, shake off your nerves—literally! Big arm swings, a few jumping jacks, or even just jiggling your feet can help calm your nervous system.
- Try a quick, goofy smile, laugh, stretch, or great big sigh before recording. It’ll help you loosen up!
- Speak slowly and clearly. This allows viewers to better understand you, but it can also help you feel more comfortable.
- Practice your lines a few times so they feel like second nature, but don’t worry if you don’t stick directly to your script while you’re filming.
- You don’t have to memorize everything! We can set up the teleprompter for you—just send your script to community@gnat-tv.org ahead of your visit to the studio.
- Keep your script simple and don’t overthink it. The more natural your language, the better you’ll connect with your audience.
- Bring a prop. Sometimes holding an item related to your message can help focus your attention.
- Pause, swallow, and take a breath between sentences. This gives you a moment to gather your thoughts.
- It’s okay to take your time! You’ll feel more at ease if you’re not rushing through your lines.
- If you forget to say something while filming, let us know! We can add text overlays and include the information in the description when we distribute the video.
- If you mess up or forget what to say, just pause and start the sentence again. We’re not live, and editing magic can make your announcement look seamless.
- Getting stressed out? Let the producer know you need a minute to step away from the camera and lights. We can begin again when you’re ready.
- Forget the cameras: Imagine you’re talking to the one person who most needs to hear what you’re saying.
- Feel free to bring a friend or colleague to be in the studio, or even on camera with you! Having someone familiar nearby can help you relax.
When nerves creep in, remind yourself: you’ve got this, and it’s okay to feel a little nervous. Remember, everything can be edited, and we can do as many takes as you need to get it right. Everyone does multiple takes, even those who are experienced on camera: Think of the first few as practice runs, figuring out which words and sentences you may struggle with. The last few takes become easier, and before you know it, we’ll call cut! and you’ll be on your way.
If you have any questions ahead of filming your PSA at GNAT-TV, reach out to community@gnat-tv.org. We’re happy to help!
Video Announcement Days happen each month at GNAT-TV’s studio in Sunderland, VT, and we can schedule a different time to meet your needs. Schedule via Calendly or email community@gnat-tv.org to schedule a recording time!
