Many of the corporate video projects we produce involve individuals interviewing or addressing their colleagues. From boardroom presentations to panel discussions, it's important to be aware of a few points in order to achieve the desired effect of this style of presentation.

One of these points that I'd like to touch on today is what we call "spiking the camera". In all video productions it is critical to teach your speaker to be conscious of the camera, to be aware of where it is and where it is pointed. Then tell them to avoid eye contact with it. (The obvious exception is a direct appeal, when the individual in the video wants to forge a personal relationship with the audience. That, however, is a discussion for another day.)

People are much more comfortable being brought into an intimate setting while being able to stay at a safe distance. We relax and let our guard down if there is no threat of confrontation or personal involvement. If the subjects in your business video are discussing something rather important, but forget about the camera and their eyes accidentally cross the camera lens, it can be very disruptive for the viewer. The speaker broke the continuity and the intimacy of what is happening on screen by exposing the 'voyeurism' of the viewer. The viewer starts thinking about him or herself, if only for a moment, and their focus on your company's message is interrupted.

One of the chief benefits of video is that it draws the viewer in. It allows us to enter into a different time and place and brings us closer to what we are watching. If done correctly, a corporate video can effectively communicate its content by holding peoples' attention. So, when you are filming something that is to be viewed from the third person, make sure you instruct your actors to avoid eye contact with the camera and to pretend it is not even there. It will make a much more exciting and engaging video for your audience. Until next time, happy filming!