Second EAGE Conference on Seismic Inversion

7 - 9 February | Online Event

Making a good video presentation is important!

If your video looks good, you make a better impression and have more impact on your audience.

Follow a few simple rules and apply certain “tricks” when recording your presentation.

Preparation

• Ensure the quality of both audio and video is good. For quality purposes, we recommend the use of a separate headset with integrated microphone;

• Do an audio sound check before recording.

• Output set to 1920 x 1080 full HD; if that is not possible, use the setting as close to this one as possible (720 HD);

• Disable system messages and warnings, like e-mail notifications, skype messages, etc.;

• When recording, limit the background noise (separate room/location);

• Rehearse the presentation several times to check the duration of the presentations. Stick to the time limits;

• Speak clearly and not too quick;

• Check if there is a delay between starting the recording (click the ‘Record’ button) and the recording of audio and video.

Recording the videos

• Test the quality of both audio and video before recording;

• Introduce yourself at the start of your presentation, including your name and the title of your presentation;

• Do not speak too quickly;

• Keep in mind that what you include in your video, will be available online. 

• If you also include a picture in picture recording of yourself in the presentation, please feel free to do so. Be aware that the frame of yourself will be covering a part of the presentation slides.

• When including a picture in picture:

• Be sure to be visible and well positioned as well as illuminated properly;

• Be sure to have a source of light (windows, bulbs etc.) in front of you or slightly from the side;

• Try to align your face parallel to the webcam.

• if the laptop is too low you can place some books underneath to raise it a little, rather than tilting the screen.

• Make sure only intended content is included in the presentation.

How to Prepare a Good Video Presentation

There’s basically three key aspects to preparing a good video presentation:

1. The Technical Part
2. What you say
3. How you say it

The Technical Part

• Audio: Microphones are sound sensitive and can pick up even tiny noise, therefore it's good to check the surroundings. Close doors and windows, put your phone in silent mode, turn off notification alerts on your computer, etc.  If possible, use an external microphone that is close to you (for example a lapel microphone).
  
  
• Lighting: If you are recording at home or in an office you may be able to use your room lighting. A soft natural light source like a window will do the trick. It is advised to avoid light directly behind you or sitting directly beneath a ceiling light as it will produce shadows in your eyes and under your chin. It would work better if the light comes from a source in front or on the side of you. In general, avoid shadows, over exposure, and any plain bad lighting.
  
  
• Background: A bookcase or a painting in the background can be fine, as long as they don't distract the audience from your message. If possible, try to opt for a ‘quiet’ background.
  

What you say

For some people speaking comes naturally, for others it's very helpful to practice the presentation before recording it.

Following a clearly written scrip might help during the recording process. 

It would be nice to begin your presentation with a very short welcome, including your name and presentation title.

How you say it

Learn from the experts!

Watch the EAGE video series for tips and tricks on how to prepare for your presentation.