GUIDELINES FOR A GREAT PRESENTATION: PART 1
When you are representing the Lord – witness in everything you do.
Dressing for a presentation
Ensure that your attire is not more attractive than your presentation. This is distracting. Dress relatively conservatively.
Attire, such as short or sleeveless dresses, tight or multi-coloured clothing, revealing tops, should be avoided. Remember that this recording of you will be out in cyberspace in perpetuity. Send your best self.
Video Recording
The room from which you are recording should have little or no noise. Avoid the possibility of sounds from children, dogs, etc. If you have to do a second or third take, go right ahead.
If you are filming outdoors, avoid unwanted noise or objects. Ensure that the camera is between the sun (light source) and the presenter. Examine your surroundings before starting the recording.
The main light source should be in front of the presenter. You may use more than one light source to reduce shadow. Remember that we want the light to bounce from your face etc. into the camera.
The background should be complementary to your complexion and attire; not contrasting. A solid wall with little or no pictures is best. Remember that we want to see you with all the positive expressions highlighted.
Ensure that the camera is at eye level. We don’t need to see in your mouth or nostrils or the ceiling of your home. This is best achieved by using a laptop and elevating it. If a cellphone is used, it should be set with the long end across (landscape) ensuring that it is stable and no fingers are in the field of view.
The position of presenter should be centred. If you are prone to animation, give room for your movement but ensure that you and your gesticulations are captured as completely as possible, and centred. Use gesticulations sparingly; they can be distracting.
Look into the camera. Even if you are conversing with another person, remember that your main audience is in cyberspace (through your camera) and they need eye contact to connect.
If you are reading from your laptop etc, avoid stretching to scroll. Use a mouse or a presenter’s remote. Remember to avoid plagiarism by referencing your materials, as far as is possible.
Use of microphone
Recording should be clear. You may choose to use a microphone or headset to ensure that surrounding sound is minimized.
Remember that you are now addressing an international audience so your diction is important. Consonant blends, consonant digraphs, diphthongs, tenses etc. should be noted. The “th”, ing, ending of your words, etc. should be properly pronounced.
Before you start recording, take a deep breath, smile and remember, the world is now your oyster; go for it!
Prepared by: Evelyn D Thompson, BSc, MBA.
Leader of the Communications Dept. , Andrews Memorial SDA District of Churches
