No Studio, No Problem: An Instructor’s Guide to On-Camera Teaching

First things first: your camera. Whether you’re using a built-in webcam, your phone, or a fancy DSLR you forgot you owned, the key is positioning. Prop your camera up to eye level so people don’t have to stare up your nose. Frame yourself so your head and shoulders fill most of the shot, leaving just a little space above your head. This will keep the focus of the shot on you and your face, rather than how you’re being cut off by the screen. And unless you’re shooting for TikTok or something social, shoot horizontally.

After you’ve got your camera positioned, look behind you. Now look again. Is there a pile of laundry? An overflowing bookshelf? Your cat mid-groom? If so, it might be time to simplify. Your background should be clean but not sterile. Think about easy visual accents, like a bookshelf, plant, decorative lamps, or a neutral wall. And if you can, put some distance between yourself and whatever’s behind you. The last thing you want is to fade into the background and drop from your students’ attention. Incorporating distance creates a subtle blur that makes you stand out more (and makes it less obvious if your dog decides to photobomb). It’s okay to show a little personality in your background and let folks see those pets, but the more professional you want things, the more you need to tidy up your space.

Lighting is the silent MVP of good video. The difference between “polished professor” and “witness protection interview” often comes down to one thing: where your light is coming from. With all things video, natural light is best… just follow the same rules you’d use for taking a family picture. No harsh light from directly above, below, or behind, and try to space out and balance your light sources. A well-placed lamp can make for beautiful camerawork, and curtains or blinds can soften even the harshest midday sun. Remember the goal is soft, even light, so let’s avoid those interrogation-room vibes.

Let’s be real: students might forgive a slightly grainy video, but bad audio? Instant dealbreaker. Your computer’s built-in mic is okay in an emergency, but if you can, use an external microphone. A lavalier (those tiny clip-on mics) is best, but even the mic on your headphones is better than nothing. Position it close enough to pick up your voice clearly without also capturing every breath or keyboard tap. And for the love of all things digital, record in a quiet space. That means shutting windows, silencing notifications, and maybe giving your dog a preemptive treat to keep them occupied.

Talking to a camera can feel… weird. But here’s the trick: imagine you’re explaining something to just one student, not a faceless audience of hundreds. Your energy on camera matters more than you think—if you’re monotone or low-energy, students will tune out fast. Sit up straight, take a breath, and try to keep your tone natural and conversational. Also, look into the camera, not at yourself on the screen. It makes a huge difference in creating a sense of connection.

The first time you record yourself, it might feel awkward. That’s normal. The good news is you get better. Do a test run, play it back, and adjust as needed. If you fumble a word or two keep going. Your students don’t expect perfection. What they do expect is clarity, engagement, and a professor who seems present and prepared.

So, there you have it. A few simple tweaks, and your home video setup goes from “DIY disaster” to “thoughtful and professional.” You’ll be ready to impress in no time. If you’d like, feel free to download CETLOE’s DIY Video Guide, so you’ll have these tips handy when you need them. You’ve got this.