How to Get Comfortable On Video: 5 Tips for Dance Teachers and Studio Owners

While we are definitely used to public speaking when it comes to teaching, MANY dance professionals find it challenging to express themselves confidently on video. 

Here are my top 5 tips for creating video content👇🏼

1. Boost Your Energy

One of the biggest challenges with video is projecting enough energy to capture and keep your audience’s attention. Early on, it can be easy to make the mistake of thinking that over-the-top energy comes off as fake and insincere. But actually: while really high energy can feel awkward when you're talking in person, on video, it translates really well.

To boost your energy, try standing up while recording. If you naturally talk with your hands in person, do that. This simple switch can increase your energy levels and make your voice sound more dynamic.

Think about how your voice animates and changes when you’re excited, just like when you're speaking to a group of students! That’s the kind of energy you want to convey on video.

2. Lighting!!!

You can have the best content, but bad lighting will make your videos feel lower quality. Try filming in a bright space whenever possible-- natural light is the easiest and most flattering option. If you can, stand facing a window (instead of having the light behind you).

If you're filming at night or the studio lighting is not the best, a ring light will really help. I carry around this one that attaches to my phone.

A light will brighten up the video and reduce the shadows on your face, which will help you look more polished AND help you feel more confident.

3. Get to the Point

Similar to running your dance class, you don't want to over-explain or go on and on-- more people will tune out and scroll away. Take out the "hey guys...." and just get to the point!

As a general rule, I try to keep most of my videos between 30 seconds to 1 minute, which forces me to be concise. Short, digestible videos almost always work better online. People appreciate helpful, actionable information without a bunch of fluff.

4. Let Your Personality Take Over

By far the biggest mistake I see people make on video is sounding robotic and formal. This does not make you sound professional...it's just boring! The more you let your personality, humor, and energy shine through, the more people will connect with you. 

I always tell people to imagine they are talking to their best friend, or their students. Whether you're announcing an event or sharing a tip, speak like you're explaining it to someone you care about. Your audience will like the authenticity. 

5. Practice!

The biggest thing that improved my confidence on camera was simply doing it over and over again. Your first videos probably won’t feel amazing, and that’s normal. Most people are awkward on camera at first!

Don't worry about making mistakes, but rather, embrace them as part of the learning process. Some of my older videos had bad lighting and overall looked much lower quality… but the content itself was valuable. And because I kept showing up consistently and improving, I built an engaged audience over time.

If you’re nervous, start with low-pressure content like Instagram Stories. They disappear in 24 hours anyway. Challenge yourself to show up on video consistently, even if it’s just sharing a quick teaching tip, studio insight, or behind-the-scenes moment from your day.

The more you practice, the more natural it becomes.

Final Thoughts

Remember, creating great video content is a SKILL, not just a talent people have or don't. You do not need fancy equipment or perfect editing to start! Focus on being clear, relatable, and consistent.

Video is one of the best ways for dance teachers and studio owners to build trust, connect with their audience, market their programs, and share their expertise online.

So, start small, be consistent, and above all, have fun with it-- you got this! 🤩