Six years ago, I had an epiphany.
And I didn't like it.
Not one bit.

To grow my firm, I needed to appear on camera more often and significantly improve my on-camera performance.

For me, getting better on camera wasn't even an option, and there were several reasons for it.

1. Being on camera builds trust and credibility. I realized that being on video helps potential clients quickly assess personality, expertise, and authenticity. These are accelerants for building trust as quickly as possible.
2. Most client interactions are delivered on video. To show up confidently and communicate concisely, I needed more practice.
3. It's a differentiator. The reality is that most people in the Fractional CFO industry simply aren't willing to leverage video. I knew this would help set me apart and establish me as a thought leader.
4. It's a sales accelerator. Potential clients who’ve watched your videos often feel familiar with your approach, shortening the sales cycle and improving conversion rates.
5. Personal branding and network boost. Getting on video significantly enhances your visibility, which boosts your network and tees up more opportunities.

OK, that's all fine and dandy - but the idea of getting "comfortable" on camera felt about as likely as me having a full head of hair again.

Sure, there were probably some drugs that could help the process, but "comfortable on camera" and a "full head of hair" were unlikely.

In all seriousness, being on video felt:

• Awkward
• Terrifying
• Embarrassing

I’d rather be doing literally anything else.

But I knew the power of video as a tool for growing my firm wasn't an option. I had to figure this out.

Six years later, after countless takes, hundreds of videos, and plenty of trial and error, being on camera feels (almost) natural. In fact, it’s now a core part of my business strategy.

Over the years, I've found six distinct tips and tricks that helped me get more comfortable on camera. Today, I'm going to share those tips with you, hoping they'll help you get comfortable on camera in far less time than it took me.

1. Plan (but Don’t Over-Plan)

I used to think preparation meant memorizing a perfect script. Spoiler alert: That never works.

Instead, I found success by first jotting down bullet points (preferably handwritten; I remember better that way).

Then, I run through the bullet points out loud a couple of times before recording to ensure everything flows naturally.

What I've learned is that many things look good on paper but sound REALLY weird when you say them out loud. Ironing these kinks out before trying to get on camera helps a ton.

Most of the time, I tweak my outline based on these practice runs and then hit record.

2. Keep Tech Simple (Seriously!)

Fancy pants video gear is tempting. I’ve stared down rabbit holes filled with gimbals, professional lighting setups, and studio-grade microphones.

But guess what?

You don’t need most of that stuff, especially when starting out. Complex setups create unnecessary snags in getting started. More often than not, they end up becoming the reason you don't actually hit record.

If you must invest in something, here’s your priority list:

1. Content: Great content trumps everything.
2. Audio: People forgive shaky video; bad audio makes them click away instantly.
3. Lighting: Natural light or a simple ring light can transform your video quality.
4. Camera: Your smartphone is more than enough to get started.

Let me be VERY clear here: the LAST thing you should invest money in is your camera. Content, then audio, then lighting. And then, maybe one day, when you have several hundred dollars (or thousands of dollars) lying around, invest in a decent camera.

3. Embrace Imperfection with Live Video

One major blocker for me was perfectionism. I’d shoot, stumble over my words, restart, rinse, and repeat. 

I'd spend 2 hours fooling around with a 2-minute video.

I know that sounds silly, but believe me, it happens!

The solution?
Going live. 

Doing daily live sessions for a couple of weeks forced me to let go of perfectionism.

There’s no editing out mistakes when you’re live. It taught me to push through errors and keep going.

The reality is that your viewers have no idea what your version of perfect looked like anyway. They don't see your notes or your script. They just assume that whatever you said was your intention. 

Seriously - no one cares.

4. Set an “Action Over Excuses” Rule

Are you waiting for:

• That ring light from Amazon?
• Finding that elusive “perfect” moment?
• Watching just one more YouTube tutorial?

The truth is, these are excuses keeping you from hitting record.

Today, take action. Grab your phone, hit record, and film something simple. Post it.

If there's anything I've learned about video, it's that if you look for an excuse to NOT shoot, you will find one.

5. Commit to Consistency (The Power of Reps)

Getting good at anything means repetition. Video is no different. 

Commit to making videos regularly.

Once I started posting consistently (and really going live consistently), I saw an immediate improvement.

• Anxiety decreases significantly.
• Confidence builds.
• Speaking skills sharpen.
• The audience grows.

Watching courses and consuming more videos won't get you any of these outcomes.
Reps is the only answer.
 

6. Focus on Serving Your Audience

The best mindset shift for me was realizing video isn’t about me - it’s about my audience.

Every time you hit record, remind yourself:

• What am I teaching or sharing today?
• How can this help my audience?
• Who is counting on me to deliver this?

When your focus is on service, your comfort (or discomfort!) no longer matters.

Final Thought

A lot of firm owners are concerned about how to differentiate themselves in the vast ocean of Fractional CFOs.

One of the best ways to instantly stand out is to start showing up on video.
99% of firm owners will never even try - much less get good at video.  

If you can check your ego for a few months while you practice and skill up, you'll find yourself in the top 1%.

Let's go.