The idea with the Huffington Post’s new live video programming is that everyone, not just pundits and TV reporters, can contribute at any time. But it’s one thing to add a tweet to the social conversation online and quite another to actually go on camera.

Here’s how to be a great video contributor and make your mark on Huffington Post Live:

1. Get out the headphones.
Avoid the bright white iPhone earbuds and go with black. You’ll need them so you have decent audio quality and there’s no feedback when you are on-air.

2. Compose your shot.
Prop up your laptop on some books so your webcam is eye-level to avoid getting a double-chin. Have something more interesting than a white wall behind you, even if it’s just books.

3. Consider lighting.
Put on all the lights and sit in front of a window. Video needs a lot of light and a creepy dark room never makes a good impression.

4. Practice eye contact.
Be sure to look straight into the lens when you are talking AND listening. Pretend you are speaking directly to the host, not a piece of glass so you look engaged, not spacey.

5. Look good.
Wear a bright color so you pop from the screen (even on mobile devices) and blot your face beforehand for shine. Just because it’s online video doesn’t mean you can look schlumpy.

6. Prepare your thoughts.
If you’ve never been on camera (and even if you have), it’s wise to jot down your thoughts and think through what you plan on saying. Notes will help you make your point concisely and not get distracted by the rush of going “live”.

7. Enjoy the conversation.
Audiences love listening and watching people who look like they are enjoying themselves. So loosen up and have some fun! After all, HuffPo Live has 12 hours a day to fill…do well and chances are you’ll be back on camera in no time.

We’d like to thank Manoush for sharing these tips with us! Also, thanks to Anna Sacca for her help with this post as well!

About the Author – Chris Atkinson
Chris Atkinson joined ReelSEO in 2011. He is a longtime film and television reviewer, and has almost two decades of experience in the theater industry. He also writes on his personal blog – http://nymoviereviews.com. View All Posts By – Chris Atkinson

Source: 7 Tips to Stand Out as a Video Contributor on HuffPo Live http://www.reelseo.com/tips-huffpo-live/#ixzz24xdI8hTP
©2012 ReelSEO

Source: 7 Tips to Stand Out as a Video Contributor on HuffPo Live http://www.reelseo.com/tips-huffpo-live/#ixzz24xbkpgP1
©2012 ReelSEO