Tips for Improving On-Camera Presence

"Just be natural on camera" is the WORST advice I’ve ever received. (And I heard a lot of bad advice in my TV days…) Here’s what your audience actually craves from you instead: 1️⃣ ENERGY Not that jittery coffee-buzz energy. I’m talking about that genuine “I’m excited to be here” vibe that makes people lean in. Quick insider secret: In the news, we’d amp up our energy 15% above normal. Sounds weird, but plays perfectly on camera. 2️⃣VOCAL VARIETY Let’s be real - monotone = audience death Your voice needs to dance. Up, down, pause… like you’re sharing gossip with your best friend over coffee. 3️⃣ BODY LANGUAGE • Your hands aren’t criminals - stop keeping them locked up! • Let them move naturally (yes, even on Zoom) • Drop those shoulders (I can see you tensing up) • Own your space like you pay rent for it 4️⃣STORY STRUCTURE Without this, you’re just another talking head in the digital void: • Character (make it personal) • Conflict (what’s at stake?) • Content (your core message) • Conclusion (tie it with a bow) The difference between “natural” and “intentional” is the difference between being ignored and being unforgettable. Drop a 1, 2, 3, or 4 in the comments - which element challenges you most? #video #oncameratips #videocontentcreation ============================ I’m Kerry—Emmy award-winning former-NBC news anchor, reporter, and producer. I turn video-shy lawyers into video-confident lawyers.    If you liked this post, please consider commenting and sharing. I’m looking to take on 1 more client for February.  If you’re interested email me at kerry@kerrybarrett.com

Most people won’t remember your slides. They’ll remember your energy, your message—and how confidently you delivered it. After more than 20 years in broadcast journalism, I’ve seen firsthand what makes someone memorable on camera, in the boardroom, or during a virtual meeting. Here are a few simple tips that can instantly elevate how you show up: ✅ Lead with a story—people connect with emotion, not bullet points ✅ Speak with intention—slow down and let your words land ✅ Own your message—clarity is more powerful than perfection ✅ Show up like you belong in the room (because you do) Confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build. And the way you communicate is one of the most powerful tools you have. #ConfidenceTips #MediaTraining #ExecutivePresence #WomenInBusiness #LeadershipDevelopment #PublicSpeaking #CommunicationSkills

📺 I improved my on-camera presence by 200% by preparing for a live TV interview. Here are 12 lessons I learned when I was a guest on Cheddar TV Live from Wall Street: 🔎 1. Understand the Platform → Research beforehand 🕵️ 2. Know Your Audience → Tailor your message It's live TV: look into demographics and viewership to understand which tone of voice to use and the level of explanation for who is watching. 😮💨 3. Breathwork → Breathe in, breathe out. You want enough blood to go to your brain! 👔 4. Dress Appropriately → You are on live tv! It's always nice to put on something that makes you confident and comfortable at the same time. ✍️ 5. Be Concise → Avoid lengthy explanations It is a difficult task for an Italian like me. We talk a lot! But remember that you might have 1 to 5 mins max of air time and many questions from the host. 😁 6. Non-Verbal Communication → Show positive body language 👋 7. Engage With Host → Be responsive, interactive 🙂 9. Be Authentic → Stay true to yourself 😀 10. Show Enthusiasm → Be passionate, lively 📝 11. Remember Key Points → Keep them handy Repeat some of the answers in front of a mirror and time yourself. 💌 12. Post-Interview Follow Up → Send thank you emails Remember, confidence is the key. Practice makes perfect, so don't shy away from rehearsing before your big moment. What tips do you have for acing a TV interview? #PublicSpeaking #MediaTraining #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalBranding

Afraid of freezing up behind the camera? I’ve learned that being interviewed on camera—whether it’s for a panel, media segment, or behind-the-scenes feature—takes more than just showing up. It’s about presence, clarity, and staying grounded under pressure. Here are a few things I remind myself every time I step in front of the lens: 1. Sit up straight. Posture speaks before you do. 2. Wipe the sweat. I keep tissues or blotting paper close to stay camera-ready. 3. Introduce yourself clearly. First and last name, title, and one line of context. 4. Keep it simple. I aim for clear, concise answers—no jargon, just heart. 5. Pause and breathe. A short pause gives me time to center myself and sound more intentional. The goal isn’t to be perfect—it’s to be present. If I’m in the room, it means I have something valuable to share, and so do you. What are your go-to tips for staying calm and clear on camera? #MediaTraining #OnCameraTips #LeadershipPresence #PublicSpeaking #ExecutiveCommunication