Let’s face it – not all of us are comfortable speaking in front of a camera, especially when there is no script.

This is where teleprompters come in.

How to Read a Script While Looking Into the Camera – Teleprompter Setup

Teleprompters allow you to read your script while looking at the camera at the same time. In the video below, I’m going to share with you my favorite teleprompter hardware and software, how they work and how to set up your own system.


Teleprompters are easy to set up and surprisingly affordable. Below you’ll find the items you’re going to need and how to set them up.

 

What you’ll need for your teleprompter setup

Camera. You can use a DSLR, an iPhone, or a smartphone. You can even use a webcam! When it comes to cameras, it doesn’t have to be expensive. Just work with what’s within your budget.

Tripod. I suggest buying a tripod that’s five to six feet tall. Smaller ones like the Gorilla tripods are not going to work because they won’t be able to hold the weight of the teleprompter.

Teleprompter. For my set up, I use the Caddie Buddy teleprompter. It’s the best teleprompter out there, IMO, and you can watch my videos about it here, here and here.

Teleprompter software. I use an app called PromptSmart, which you can purchase for your iPad or iPhone. You can pull your script from Google Drive, One Drive or Dropbox and add it to the app, which then outputs a more readable version onto your screen.

What I love about PromptSmart is it listens to the room and will recognize your voice as you talk.

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to set it up. Watch the video from 54 seconds onwards to know how each device works.

iPhone vs iPad – which is better to use?

I found that if you’re recording with an iPhone, you should use an iPhone in the tray instead of iPad, so the audience won’t see your eyes moving back and forth.

But if you are using a video camera or a DSLR, you can step back further and an iPad will work just fine for your teleprompter setup.

Do you have questions about the tools and set up? Leave them in the comments below!