How teleprompters can improve your video content

In an article exploring the connection between teleprompters and screens, the technology is described as a way for a “presenter to virtually reach out and touch the audience through the camera.” For brands, that level of connectivity between their message and their audience is the ultimate goal of an effective video.Adding a teleprompter to your video shoots is a simple yet powerful way for business and marketing leaders to ensure their message truly resonates. Let’s examine the benefits:

Reduce prep time for shoots

For organizations looking to scale video creation, it’s crucial that videos take as little time out of each person’s typical work as possible. With teleprompters, you can significantly reduce prep time for shoots because the need for memorization and rehearsal time is minimized. 

Get more team members in front of the camera

The teleprompter will also increase confidence while allowing Subjects to focus on delivering the message with ease and clarity. Combined with the reduction in prep time, more people will be willing and able to be on camera.  

Forge a better connection with your audience

A video Subject’s on-screen presence plays a major role in how the video is perceived by the audience. If the Subject is nervous, stumbles in their delivery, or looks around often, then it will be difficult for the audience to feel connected to the person they are watching or the message itself; there’s also a greater chance that the viewer won’t finish the video. In contrast, by using a teleprompter, the recording Subject is able to maintain eye contact with the camera while reading the script. This helps them appear more confident and engaging. The message is delivered more smoothly, capturing the attention of the audience and ensuring a lasting impression.

Reduce the number of takes

By utilizing a teleprompter, Subjects will reduce the likelihood of mistakes or errors, while also improving pace and timing. This means fewer takes. Not only will time be saved during the shoot, but post-production will also be easier and quicker. 

Stay on message

With an exact script rolling on the teleprompter, the Subject can stay on message. For videos in legal, pharma, or medical fields where accuracy is essential, this is crucial. Marketers and other brand leaders, who want their teams to be precise with particular brand messaging, this is also beneficial. 

Best teleprompter for creating videos

OpenReel’s free online teleprompter allows anyone to easily record professional-looking videos. The features include customizable font size and scrolling speed to make the recording experience smooth and efficient. Because the teleprompter is part of the recording platform, there’s no need for a second application or software; users also don’t need another device to display the platform. The script starts to roll as soon the record button is pressed, ensuring great line-of-sight and easy use.

Tips for writing effective teleprompter scripts

Learn how to write scripts that captivate your audience and ensure a seamless teleprompter experience with these essential tips:

Keep your language simple and easy to read.

Use short sentences and avoid complex vocabulary or technical jargon that may be difficult for the video Subject to read and/or comprehend. You want to avoid any language that will cause confusion while the teleprompter is rolling.

Write in short, concise sentences.

Long, complex sentences can be difficult to read quickly and can trip up the speaker, causing them to stumble or lose their place. By keeping your sentences concise, you’ll make it easier for the speaker to deliver the lines smoothly and confidently. Additionally, shorter sentences tend to be more memorable and impactful, making them ideal for delivering key messages or important information.

Use active voice and avoid passive voice.

This is true for any writing: active voice is more direct and engaging, and it places the focus on the subject performing the action. Passive voice, on the other hand, can make the script feel weak and less engaging. By using active voice, you can create a more compelling and effective script for your Subject.

Use bullet points or numbered lists to break up long paragraphs

When writing a script for a teleprompter, it’s important to remember thatThe presenter needs to be able to read the text easily and fluidly. Bullet points or numbered lists can help achieve this by breaking up longer paragraphs into smaller, more manageable chunks. This makes it easier for the presenter to stay on track and for the viewer to follow along in the video. Additionally, bullet points or numbered lists can help cue your video Subject to emphasize important information.

Keep your audience in mind and use language that is appropriate for them

When writing a script for a teleprompter, it’s important to consider your audience and use language that is suitable for them. This means using vocabulary and sentence structures that they will understand and avoiding overly technical or complex language that might confuse or alienate them. Ultimately, the goal is to make your message clear and accessible to as many people as possible.

Practice reading your script aloud to ensure it flows smoothly and is easy to follow

To make sure that the script is easy to read and flows smoothly, it’s a good idea to practice reading it out loud — just like the Subject will be doing. This will help you identify any awkward phrasing or confusing sentences that may need to be revised. Additionally, practicing out loud will help you get a sense of the pacing and tone of the script, which can be adjusted as needed to ensure that it’s engaging and effective.

Best teleprompter for creating videos

Common mistakes to avoid when using a teleprompter

When using a teleprompter, it’s important to avoid mistakes that can detract from the effectiveness of your video. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using a teleprompter:

1. Reading too fast or too slow

2. Not making eye contact with the audience

3. Not practicing beforehand

4. Not adjusting the speed of the teleprompter to match the Subject’s pace

5. Not using punctuation to guide the delivery

6. Not using a conversational tone while reading.

How to Use OpenReel’s free online teleprompter

The teleprompter is available to all OpenReel users and incredibly easy to utilize while recording.

Add a script

If you’re remotely directing a shoot, you can add scripts to your project beforehand so they’re easy to access when needed. Similarly, if you’re sending a Video Request link, you can add a script so your recipient has it available when they record themselves. When self-recording, simply paste in a pre-written shoot or write it within the platform. 

Adjust font size and scroll speed

The teleprompter should scroll at a speed that allows natural delivery, and the script’s font should be large enough that it is very easily legible. Before recording, adjust the font so that it works for your delivery and needs or, if you’re directing a remote shoot, work with your Subject to make those adjustments accordingly.  

Ready to record video while using an in-platform teleprompter? Start your free OpenReel trial today, and take advantage of easy recording, powerful brand control, and end-to-end creation technology.