A short guide

How to film yourself when you're camera-shy

By Adam Raabe, who makes Postcard Video. 26 September 2026.

I get a bit shy on camera myself. These are the things that help.

1. Have your notes close to the lens

Put your script or points right next to the camera, not off to the side. Then a quick glance at your notes still looks like you're talking to the viewer.

2. Use a distraction-free video app (not the built in app with full-screen face and poorly placed pause button)

The phone's own camera app fills the screen with your face and puts the controls where they're easy to miss. Pick an app that keeps your picture small, your notes in view and a big pause button under your thumb.

3. Don't stare at yourself, aim for the lens

Check how you look once, then look at the lens. That's where the viewer's eyes are.

4. Film one short bit at a time (use a pause button)

Say one thing, pause, then say the next. Short bits are easy to redo, and you never have to start the whole video over.

5. Pause to think, or to get feedback

Lost your place, or not sure how it went? Pause. Look at your notes, rethink the next line, or ask someone (or an AI) how it sounded. Then carry on.

6. Keep going! You got this!

Every take gets easier. Your first few won't be perfect, and they don't need to be. Keep filming.

An app that does this for you

I built Postcard Video around these tips. Your script or points sit on a clipboard at the top of the screen, just under the camera, and it crosses off each line as you say it. Your picture is a small stamp in the corner, not a big mirror. One big red button starts and pauses, the chat is there when you want feedback, and every take goes to your Photos.

Free on iPhone through Apple's TestFlight. No account.