September 30

Need An Easy Way To Make Video? Try The “Talking Head” Style of Video, It’s Versatile and Effective.

WHAT IS A TALKING HEAD VIDEO?

“Talking Head” is the slang name in video for a person speaking on camera.

This video here is a basic talking head of yours truly. I made it for my About Us webpage.

Talking heads are an extremely easy, efficient way for people to do online videos.  Talking heads are a fantastic way to promote yourself online, but you want to make sure and do them right. A crummy talking head will probably do you more harm than good. This post will tell you what you need to know to create professional-looking talking head videos.

WHY SHOULD I DO TALKING HEAD VIDEOS?

video portrait

You can do just about anything with a talking head: sales videos, blog posts, even entire online courses can be made out of talking head videos.  For the vast majority of online marketers wanting to do video, a talking head is absolutely the BEST way to go.  Even if you add additional storytelling elements to them, talking heads form the backbone of  most video styles.

When video novices ask me what kind of videos they should make for use online, I almost always tell them to DO TALKING HEAD VIDEOS!  This is because they are simple, fast and inexpensive to make yet communicate your message well.  They put YOU out there in a personal way so viewers can get to know you.

COMMON, VERSATILE AND EFFECTIVE 

A talking head” shot is usually framed as a medium close-up (MCU) and sometimes the person is speaking directly to the camera, other times, they are glancing slightly off camera in what’s called a 3/4 profile.  They might be talking to another person, other times they are speaking only to the video viewer.

actor matthew mcconaughey
This is a 3/4 profile shot of actor Matthew McConaughey.

A Talking Head Video is probably the single most common shot in all of video production, so once you know how to do it, you’re halfway home.

Think about how often you see talking heads.  Any talk show, news show, game show, sales show, variety show, situation comedy, commercials, just about any excuse there is to make a video is full of talking heads.

I figure I have done about 11,000 talking heads in my career.  I came to think of them as video portraits.   A talking portrait like they have in Harry Potter!

On a practical level, if you want to make a simple video that communicates a basic message plainly, do a talking head video.

I often get asked, what is the easiest way to do a marketing video?

Hands down, a talking head video is it.   If you stick to talking heads, you are way more likely to actually get your video projects DONE and a finished video is much better than an unfinished video!

Video novices usually have absolutely no clue how time consuming and labor intensive video production can be.   I have seen many people dive into big video projects with high hopes, but a few weeks later they are frustrated and angry.  If they had stuck with good ole talking heads, they would not have run into the same problems.       

HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN TALKING HEAD VIDEO

If you are trying to make a talking head video, you need to think about these things:

  • Camera position
  • Subject position
  • Lights, how many, and from what direction?
  • Microphone, what kind, and where to put it?
  • What are you going to say?

CAMERA AND SUBJECT POSITIONING

Any video camera can be used for a talking head, from the simplest flip camera to the most sophisticated. Webcams are a popular choice for talking heads and are probably the easiest way to go.

No matter what kind of camera you use, it’s usually pretty close to the subject,  either literally or via zoom lens.  The camera will either be staring them directly in the face or, off to the side just a bit in what’s called a 3/4 profile.

steve carell talking head shot used in tv show the office
The TV show The Office, used talking head interviews with their characters so you could learn what they were REALLY thinking.

There is a difference in how a viewer will react to someone staring right at them or one glancing off to the side.  Staring directly is more personal and intimate.  Looking off to the side makes the viewer feel more like an observer.  Which one is appropriate for your video depends on what feel you are going for.

I LOVE 30 Rock and The Office, two examples where the characters “confide” in the viewer.  The director conveys that visually by shooting a standard talking head with the “interviewee.” 

When you frame up your talking head shot, be aware of what is called head room and nose room.

TV terms are awfully plain spoken.  These two terms mean:

  • How much room is there above the head?
  • If they are glancing off to the side, how much room is there from their nose to the screen edge?

Deep stuff.   🙂

The vast majority of talking heads are medium-close-ups, the exact same as you would see in a still picture portrait.  The bottom of the shot cuts off in mid chest, maybe mid-stomach, and there is just a touch of head room.  Sometimes you want to add other images in editing, perhaps graphics like a name, location, or logo.

If you will be adding to the talking head later in editing, you need to leave room somewhere on the shot to put whatever you will add.  Typically, names and location graphics are placed on the bottom third of a talking head and called a lower third super.   Of course you have the option of placing these elements anywhere you want in video editing.

Some head shots go in extremely close, with the eyebrows at the top of the video frame and the mouth at the bottom.   The closer you get with your camera shot, the more intimate for the viewer and the more invasive for the subject.  Where you draw the boundaries is known as creative license.

Trust me, most people do NOT like seeing themselves in an extreme close shot, their nostrils resembling moon craters.   Come to think of it, most viewers would not go for that either.  As in real life, good video making needs boundaries.

triangle lighting

TRIANGLE LIGHTING

The best form of lighting to use for a talking head video would be similar to what’s best for still picture portrait lighting.  Generally speaking, what flatters the face is soft, diffused lighting set up around the subject in a triangular pattern known as triangle lighting or 3-point lighting.

Not all talking head videos rise to triangle lighting, sometimes reality is you only have one light.  Please don’t think you have to use fancy light fixtures, not at all.  You can make whatever you have work.

In proper triangle lighting, there are three lights:

  1. Key Light
  2. Fill Light
  3. Back Light

If you only have one light, go with the key light as it is most important.  Which light is of second importance is debatable and really depends on what look you prefer.

 

woman speaking into a micrphone

GETTING GOOD SOUND

Decent audio is critical for a talking head. If a viewer can not hear what is being said, they will shut you off no matter how good everything else is.

The best way to get great sound is to use a small lavalier microphone clipped close to the person’s mouth.  6 inches away or so on the person’s lapel or collar.    A lav mic will disappear in your shot and they are designed for just this purpose.   Make sure no clothes are rubbing on the sensitive mic portion.   I always hide the cord under the clothes if possible.  This is because I think dangling cords look tacky.

No matter what kind of mic you use, using a separate mic means you have to have a camera that allows you to plug one in.  Small video cameras rarely have that option.

 

If you do have a place to plug a mic in, even if all you get is a cheap wired mic for $25 bucks from a store like WalMart, your audio will be much better than if you relied on the camera’s on-board mic.  If you go that route, buy an audio extension cord for greater flexibility in positioning.

microphone with wind sock
A foam rubber wind sock can go a long way in protecting your audio if you are recording in a windy area.

A second option is to use a boom mic, (AKA: telephoto mic, shotgun mic) that would be held about 3-8 feet away, out of the camera range.  This methods is used a lot in professional TV and movie making.  Next time you are watching a TV talk show like the Tonight Show, be on the lookout for the boom mic sneaking in at the top of the shot.  That is a mistake of course but it happens a lot.

sound man holding mic

A third option is a hand held microphone, but be aware that lots of people think holding a big mic looks a bit tacky.   They also seem old fashioned to a lot of people, although that is really not accurate.    I had a VPT reader respond to one of my talking heads using a handheld mic by saying I was obviously a person who liked to pretend it was still 1950!  That made me laugh but it is instructive on how viewers react.  The good points for handheld mic good points are rugged durability and good quality pick up.  In the picture below, the reporter is seen with a handheld microphone.  TV news reporters are probably the most common use of handheld mics.

video camera crew

If all you have is a small video camera with a built-in microphone, then it will work best if you have the camera and mic about 2-3 feet from you.  Speak fairly loudly, much more loudly that if you were using a mic closer to you mouth.

be quiet drawing

No matter what kind of microphone you use, make sure all background noise is turned off.  Record in as quiet an environment as possible.

Speak clearly and articulate well.  Pay attention to your pacing.

There you have it, my friend!  Combine all these concepts and you have a professionally done talking head shot, the most common shot in all of video production.  Now that you have all the production considerations down, what are you going to say?

WRITING A TALKING HEAD VIDEO SCRIPT

Writing a basic script for a talking head video is fairly easy.

A script for a simple talking head marketing video should be a brief introduction of you and your product/service to the potential customers.  Just say hello and tell them the essential key elements The script should be brief and focused.  Final length should be no more than two minutes.  One minute, or even 30-45 seconds, is probably best in most circumstances.

In your script, make sure you give some kind of reason why your service is the one they should select.  This could be based on experience, superior skills, or because you are giving a great bargain.

Then, add a distinct call to action.  Whether the call to action is “email me” or “buy my book,” be specific and ask potential customers to take the next step in doing business with you.

Practice reading it aloud.  This is actually a crucial part of the script writing process.   Unlike a novel or magazine article, a video script is meant to be read aloud so you have to judge its quality from hearing it read out loud, not just by reading it off a piece of paper.

script for movie

Listen for flow and how easily the words come out of your mouth.  A good video script needs to use words that are easy to pronounce.  Even professional narrators do poorly with tongue twisters.  Modify your script as you hear it aloud to make to flow better.   Then, setup your camera and lights and you are ready to record!

Use some sort of teleprompter.  Even just scotch taping a copy of the script to the bottom of your camera lens can function as a low-budget teleprompter.  You could also use a laptop as a substitute teleprompter.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

Once the script is done, you are ready to shoot.  Follow the lighting and audio advice above for best results.

Now you know how make your own talking head video.  Thanks for reading!  Let me know how it goes for you.

Lorraine Grula

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

  • Define the term “talking head” as it relates to video production.
  • What are the five things you need to think about when planning to do a talking head video?
  • Describe triangle lighting and why it is the best way to light a talking head video.

 


Tags

how to videotape a talking head, making a talking head video, talking head, talking head video, talkingheadvideo, video production techniques talking head, video talking head, what is a talking head video


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  1. Thanks so much Lorraine! Fantastic tutorial. Your site is exactly what I’ve been looking for to help me find the best, easiest techniques for creating a series of talking head videos for my market. Keep up the great work!!

  2. What a wonderful video! I have been struggling with trying to make a simple talking head video for months and your video here was great. I am looking forward to your free course.

  3. Hi Gloria.
    So glad to hear that the video tutorial helped you. Thanks for leaving a comment. It’s nice that I can help you learn how to make a simple talking head video without having to buy some dang expensive course! Good luck. Let me know if you have questions.
    Lorraine

  4. Thanks for leaving a comment, and that’s a good thing, huh Doc.? You can take all this info and go make yourself some great talking head videos! I have seen some online video “gurus” charge nearly $200 for info on making a simple talking head! And here it all is, in this one simple post. I also cover it in my free product.
    Lorraine

  5. Dear Lorraine Grueler,
    I don’t think I have enough space to say thank you for all of the FREE information you have offered. I have worked as an A/V tech for 10 years and learned a lot. I have started my own business and needed to learn more about camera, lighting, and editing. You have taught me more in such a short time and I am excited everytime I get e-mail from you. I have made purchases on some of the sites that you have recommended and still have information from you to read. It is the best way I can think of to learn the business. You are so generous and kind to share this with us. I am also a pastor and I can use this in church, especially the head shots. I can’t thank you enough for making such a wonderful ministry of your gifts.
    Rev. Dr. Lawrence C. Brown, Sr.
    Eclipse Audio/Visual Services

  6. Hi Dr. Lawrence.
    Well bless your heart sir! You made my day. I am THRILLED to know that my blog has helped you! I love teaching people videos and love it even more when they get so much out of it like you have. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a kind and wonderful comment. Good luck to you and let me know if you ever need anything!
    Lorraine Grula

  7. No worries! My name is not exactly common so it happens all the time! Besides, I have been called worse. LOL!! Just call me the Video Gal, that’s easier!
    Lorraine

  8. Can you provide information on talking head videos that are done outside? I want to use nature background and the sun for lighting. I can’t figure out where to place the person so the sun isn’t blinding them. They want to use a computer as a teleprompter, but the subject can’t see it when the sun is in their face. By the way great name!

  9. Hi Gretchen.
    The sun is actually pretty difficult to work with as your only lighting source. It is harsh, overly bright and won’t be even on their face unless you do one of several things. Plus, it is constantly changing in terms of direction, clouds, and so forth. So my first suggestion to you is to reconsider shooting outside. Sometimes the best thing to do is shoot in the shade or on a cloudy day. At least then the light is diffused and not changing so rapidly. Of course that is not always possible. One thing you might consider is actually doing it inside in front of a window, or under a roof providing shade outside (like a covered porch), or even under a shady tree and then adding enough light fixtures to the front of the person to equalize the light in front and behind them so they are not a silhouette. That may not be workable with your situation, idk. Another option is to go ahead and let your background be overly bright but that does not look very good. Of course to add artificial light to sunlight can cause white balance issues unless you have the proper color gels or a dichroic filter. That is a blue glass filter you can put over a light fixture to color balance the light from orange to blue to match the sunlight. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dichroic_filter Or, you can use artificial lights that are color balanced to daylight.

    You can also use white cloth bounce filters or other bouncing techniques to add light to the person’s face to even the light out. They also make white cloth tarp-like filters you can put above the person and that diffuses the light and makes it more even on their face. That is a pretty large budget technique though.

    I am not sure what level of video quality you are going for. Low budget stuff that is shot outside just lives with the uneven lighting. High budget stuff corrects it in one of the ways mentioned. If you are doing low budget, just make sure the sunlight is not directly behind them or you get a silhouette. Have as much light falling on their face as possible.

    Using a computer as a teleprompter will be hard because it just will not be seen if the light is super bright.

    I hope this helps.

    Lorraine

  10. Hi Loraine,
    I am wanting to make a powerpoint presentation that has my talking head with the power point slides.

    do you know anything about this?
    what software I might use etc?
    Thanks

  11. Hi Dr. Maddy There are several different software programs you could choose that would add your talking head to other visuals. There is an online platform named Zoom that can add your talking head to a screen capture. I am fairly sure, not 100% positive, but fairly certain recent versions of PowerPoint can add a talking head. Most video editing software can combine two sources of video, one brring you and the other being your graphics. I hope this helps. Thanks for reading VPT.

    Lorraine

  12. Great info. Is there a way to record myself but edit out my background when I overlay it on a Powerpoint presentation using Screen Flow? How do people get that effect?

  13. Hi Audrey. Glad you found the post useful! I believe you are talking about doing green screen, where you film yourself with a green background and then remove the green and replace it with some other image. You can do this with any color actually. Green and blue are commonly used because they are the most opposite from skin tones. But actually as I reread your question, I think you are asking about having no background at all, where one is basically cut out from the picture with no background. That is going to be a trick similar to green screen but you just do not put any image as a background. That would be a function of your editing program and would be part the filter and effects. A white background can usually be easily removed but as these programs get more sophisticated, it gets even easier and the background can be just about anything. I hope this helps. Thanks for your comment.

    Lorraine

  14. To make even easier, an AI tool can be used for talking head video creation either with available human AI avatars or with your own custom avatar (basically your digital twin).

  15. Yes, that is true, and I am amazed at how easy it is. However, I still say a real human is more personable than a computer or AI talking head. And part of the reason for doing a talking head is so website visitors can get to know YOU. Although as an old chubby gal, I will confess that the idea of using an avatar is incredibly
    appealing.

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