A wish list for owning the (virtual) stage
The best holiday gifts are the ones that actually get used. So if you’re looking to spoil a public speaking superstar in your life - yourself included - give the gift of looking and sounding like a pro.
From stocking stuffers to moderate and deluxe gifts, we’ve compiled a list of must-haves for speaking and presenting virtually. The following aren’t an endorsement of any particular products, and there are no affiliate links. We don’t make any money from your purchases. This is simply a curated example of what’s available (and most of the links are Canadian, just like us). So get started on your gift list, and free up some mental space this holiday season - a gift from us to you.
Pro tip: It’s a supply chain’s world, and we’re all living in it. Remember to shop early and buy from local businesses. It’s good for your community and is the best way to avoid shipping delays.
Video
A decent video set-up to put your best-self forward. Something that will frame your face and shoulders properly, so that part of your head isn’t cut off by the camera and the audience isn’t seeing you at a weird angle.
Budget
Yes, you can get by with the camera built into your laptop, tablet or phone - but Santa can step things up with a webcam like the Logitech C920S Pro. It provides more flexibility by adjusting the placement and you can upgrade in picture quality.
C920S PRO HD WEBCAM
If you’re sticking with a smartphone (and many of them have surprisingly good cameras), a mini tripod with a smartphone adaptor is a handy accessory that gives you the flexibility to place your phone exactly where you want it.
We like the Optex 2-in-1 tripod & extension pole. It’s small enough to sit on your desk, it allows you to adjust the height, and bonus - it doubles as a selfie stick. Total creative (and stable) freedom!
Optex 2-in-1 Tripod & Extension Pole
Upgrade
For top-notch recorded video, go with a DSLR. Most of the videos filmed at Stage Light HQ are filmed on a Canon Rebel SL3. Make sure you choose a camera that includes a microphone jack so that you can upgrade your audio - those built-in mics usually leave a lot to be desired.
EOS Rebel SL3
Lighting
Lighting is one of the key components in video presenting and recording that is often forgotten, yet absolutely essential. Good lighting can make or break the quality of video, - whether you’re using an expensive DSLR or a built-in webcam. Make certain you look your best with the following options.
Budget
A ring light is among the most flattering and affordable options for lighting. The circular design hides shadow by distributing light and the soft light hides blemishes making it perfect for video presenting.
Neewer Selfie Ring Light for Laptop Computer
Upgrade
To upgrade your lighting, get softboxes and create a 3-point lighting setup. The 3-point set-up highlights and accents dimensions (height, width and depth), giving you a 3-D feel while minimizing shadows.
GODOX 60X90CM SOFTBOX BOWENS MT
Sheer scarves in different colors allow you to adjust the strength and tone of the lighting to suit your preferences. To a certain extent you can also make these adjustments digitally, if you have the right software and the know-how to use it. But we’re old-school and like to be able to create a flattering setup even when working with limited technology.
Sound
To sound your best, you’ll need a microphone that captures crisp, clear sound. Especially important if you’ve heard on Zoom calls that your voice sounds distorted or is hard to hear. Bad sound quality is an instant turn-off for an audience, arguably more so than bad video (after all, if you don’t like how something looks, you can close your eyes and just listen; you can’t close your ears if it sounds bad).
Budget
Try a cheap external mic like the Blue Snowball USB. The sound can sometimes be harsh (amplifying sibilance or high frequency components of certain sounds), but it’s better than your built-in computer microphone.
Blue Snowball USB Mic
Upgrade
To step things up, try the Blue Yeti - the ubiquitous podcast mic. You can change the settings so that it only captures sound from one direction (i.e. your mouth) to avoid intrusive noises, or from a wider range if you have multiple people sitting around a table.
Yeti USB microphones
Another option is a aireless lavalier (lapel) mic like the Rode Filmmaker Kit. It’s best for if you’re up and moving around - an essential for online fitness instructors. The receiver attaches directly to your DSLR.
Wireless Lavalier Mic
Finally, the Rode VideoMic or VideoMic Pro - both of which also attach to your DSLR. The Pro gives better sound quality, but it uses a 9V battery and you need to remember to turn it on & off. Scatterbrains beware, and consider getting a couple of rechargeable batteries! Check out the +20dB sound setting if you want to try your hand at making ASMR.
Rode VideoMic
Background
People will notice what’s behind you, so make it look attractive and on-brand. An accent in your signature colour is a nice touch, and well-chosen art can reflect your brand (while being much more subtle than a giant banner with your logo on it). So, check out your local print, art or home decor store for the finishing touches on your presentation.
The last word
If your giftee has all the equipment they need, consider giving them the gift of swagger and style. Round off a stellar video and audio set-up with the tools you need to give engaging, confident and professional presentations.
Click here for a free consultation or check out our online course!