This summer we’re filming for Digging for Britain and we want everyone on site to have the chance to present their discoveries, so here’s three tips to help you face the camera. Let’s roll!
1. Always look at your interviewer
Dude, it’s not the camera who’s asking you questions! If there’s an actual person in shot talking to you, keep your eyes on them. The camera isn’t the one who wants the answer, so don’t look at it. Give your answers to your interviewer instead!
2. Rabbit-in-the-headlights is not a good look
If someone is interviewing someone or doing a piece to camera, you often find people in the background are so mindful of the camera that they stop what they are doing and stare right down the lens. Or they walk in the back of the frame and when they realise they are in shot they stop and go back where they came from – which looks utterly comical! I don’t want to be watching 20 people go all stilted and look like rabbits before they get knocked over by a HGV! It’s great to see people in the background who are busy doing archaeology, so just carry on and ignore the camera.
3. Turn your character up to 11
They often say a camera adds 10lbs in weight, but it also takes away about 10 ounces of character. So, exaggerate your gestures, your expressions and lift your tone of voice. You’re doing something you love, so grab your chance and share your enthusiasm!
Fancy giving it a go? Then this is your chance!