What are the key challenges attorneys face when appearing on camera?
For most attorneys, the biggest hurdle to producing effective video content isn’t time or technology—it’s the discomfort of being on camera. The core fear is often rooted in mindset. Many worry they’ll sound robotic, boring, or even foolish. There’s also the fear of being judged—not just by clients but also by peers and colleagues. These feelings are entirely normal, and even seasoned professionals experience them.
Getting comfortable on camera starts with gaining competence. Confidence comes after. The most common challenge? Matching one’s message with their energy. Video tends to flatten energy, so what feels passionate in person can appear dull and lifeless on screen.
Why does energy seem so different on video than in person?
Video is inherently flattening—both visually and energetically. You’re compressing a three-dimensional person into a two-dimensional format, which dulls gestures, voice tone, and facial expressions. Add to that the camera lens and microphone, which dilute presence even more.
There’s also a psychological barrier: the brain’s instinct for safety. When facing a camera, many revert to a “reptilian brain” state, the same one that kept our ancestors quiet and small to avoid predators. Subconsciously, we interpret the audience as a threat, so we shrink—physically and vocally.
To combat this, imagine you’re speaking to someone across a noisy table. You’d use bigger gestures, more projection, and animated facial expressions to get your point across. On camera, you’ll need to bump up your energy by about 25%. Practice recording yourself at different levels of intensity until you find the right balance—typically, the sweet spot lies just before it feels over-the-top.
What can you do if you’re great in person but freeze up on camera?
Even if you’re charismatic in person, being alone with a camera can create stiffness. Without a live audience to interact with, it’s easy to lose your natural rhythm. This is especially true because audiences respond more to non-verbal cues than verbal ones. A mismatch between tone and words—like saying “I’m excited to be here” with a flat voice—undermines credibility.
One workaround is to simulate an audience. Talk to someone during the recording, use a mirror, or imagine a specific client in front of you. Creating a human focal point helps bring warmth and connection into your delivery. This trick even helps experienced professionals who struggle when they can’t see their audience, like during webinars.
How can lawyers sound natural on video—even when repeating the same message?
The key to sounding fresh is to mentally cue yourself before each delivery. Use phrases like “Get this” or “Listen up” in your mind to re-energize your tone. Even if you’ve said something a hundred times, chances are your audience is hearing it for the first time.
Another tool is emotion mapping. Take your script and identify the emotional tone of each sentence—whether it’s frustration, excitement, concern, or relief. Then physically mark your script with symbols or faces to match. This helps ensure your voice, face, and gestures align with your words. Over time, this practice becomes second nature and allows your authenticity to shine through consistently.
What body language habits should attorneys be aware of when recording video?
Most viewers are not scrutinizing you the way you scrutinize yourself. However, some habits can hurt your delivery. Common missteps among attorneys include a monotone voice and a lack of facial expression. These habits often stem from courtroom decorum or a desire to appear neutral during opposing arguments, but they don’t translate well to video.
On camera, a blank face can seem cold or evasive, and a monotone voice can come off as disinterested. Counteract this by intentionally adding vocal variety and using your facial expressions to match your message.
On the positive side, lawyers often excel at organizing ideas clearly and logically. Their content typically follows a coherent structure—A to B to C. However, a pitfall here is using too much legal jargon or “the language of expertise.” This can confuse clients and make them feel alienated or inadequate. Speak in a way your target audience will understand and connect with.
What perfectionist tendencies can get in the way of making videos?
Many attorneys are perfectionists—and while that leads to polished, well-thought-out content, it can also create a fear of publishing anything that’s less than flawless. But there’s no such thing as a perfect video. Even Emmy Award-winning broadcasts included mistakes.
Perfectionism can lead to paralysis. You don’t need every word and every frame to be flawless; you just need to communicate clearly and authentically. Instead of fixating on how you look or sound, focus on delivering value. Remember, most of your audience is more interested in the message than your every gesture.
What is one simple tip any attorney can implement today to boost credibility on camera?
Make eye contact with the camera lens. It’s the quickest, most effective way to establish trust and rapport. Many people look at their screen or another person during virtual recordings, which breaks that connection. Your viewer needs to feel like you’re talking directly to them.
Using a teleprompter setup where the camera sits behind a reflective screen can help maintain that direct gaze while still allowing you to see notes or interview partners. This small adjustment instantly makes you more engaging and trustworthy on video.
Final Thoughts
Video is one of the most powerful tools attorneys can use to build credibility, connect with clients, and elevate their brand. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being prepared, present, and human. With intentional practice, even the most camera-shy professionals can become confident, compelling on-screen communicators.
