The studio setup includes a teleprompter in front of the camera allowing you to read your script whilst maintaining eye contact with the lens. Scripts are displayed on the teleprompter, scrolling as you read to keep your eye-line at the centre of the screen. Presenters who choose to use scripts may be experienced, have a need for absolute accuracy or need to create videos if specific lengths.
Writing a script to be read out loud requires careful consideration to ensure that it is easy to read and well received by the listener. A poor script may cause presenters to become frustrated and your studio session could therefore be less productive. Although you are more than welcome to revise and improve your scripts on the day, we would highly recommend doing this before the session to make sure you gain the most from your time in the studio.
Video demonstrations
Frequently Asked Questions about preparing scripts
Rather than start again can’t you edit my recordings together?
This is a common question that has two answers! If you are wanting to keep within the costs of your chosen package then you will need to record your videos in one take. Or if you are happy to pay for some additional editing time then we can potentially join different videos together as required. It is important to note that to avoid a ‘jump cut’, the edit will need to be hidden in some way (for example using a full screen slide) or else the production quality of your video may be compromised.
Does reading a script make me sound wooden?
If you don’t practise then you are very likely to sound like you are reading from a script! However through practise and familiarity, you will be able to deliver in a far more natural style. One of the biggest causes of ‘wooden’ delivery is due to the script itself being too formal, unemotional and generally different from the way you would normally speak.
A good way to overcome this is to initially start with ad-libing your presentation and recording it using this website. Then edit your transcribed script (carefully considering the overall length) until it is exactly right for you.
Is it noticeable that a script is being used?
Viewers may be able to tell that you are reading from a script (lighter eye colours tend to make this more obvious), however this is rarely a problem. The biggest giveaway is more likely to be if the reading of the script is not properly rehearsed leading to a less natural delivery style.
Can I memorise my script instead of using the teleprompter?
If you are one of the very lucky people who can do this, then this may be the best choice for you. However if you are not extremely confident in this ability, then you are likely to become frustrated and unproductive attempting what is generally a very difficult thing to do. This is something we see people attempt to do a lot – and unfortunately the success rate is quite low. Remember that you would need to remember the whole script and present it in one go.
Can I deviate from the script?
Yes you can ad-lib parts as you wish, although this often can lead to issues and it is usually better to amend the script or instead choose to ad-lib altogether if this is your preferred style.
Will l need glasses or contact lenses to read from the teleprompter?
The text on the teleprompter is approximately 1cm high and is 2.5m away from the presenters location. If you need glasses or contact lenses in this situation and you have a choice, contact lenses may be the better option (unless you opted for the anti-reflection coating on your glasses). The use of glasses is perfectly acceptable in the studio but may need some lighting adjustments to avoid reflections.
Will I need to speak at a constant speed?
Our teleprompter set-up is controlled by following your reading speed. Simply read the script at your normal speed and our operator will adjust as needed. You can pause or speed up as you wish without worrying about the script going out of sync.
Can you check my script for me?
We are very happy to read through your script on the day and make suggestions that might help with the delivery. We are able to also offer this as a paid service in advance if you require it.
Can you write my script for me?
Yes of course. We have a number of excellent script writers who can assist with single or batch script production. It might be worth having a go at writing your own script to see how you get on (after all you are likely to be both familiar with your topics and used to talking about them), if you are not happy with what you produced it is likely to be more cost effective to have them ‘polished’ rather than written from scratch.
Can I script some videos and ad-lib others?
Yes this is possible and it is quick to switch between these modes in our studio set-up.