Teleprompters are great tools for video production that help you make sure that you’re delivering your lines on time and accurately. But how much do you actually know about teleprompters? Have you ever used one for a production? If not, you’re missing out!
What are the Benefits of using a Teleprompter?
A teleprompter can help you keep your place while speaking, ensure that you hit your marks, and make sure that your video looks polished and professional. Plus, using a teleprompter can help reduce stress levels and improve your overall performance.
How to Use a Teleprompter
Using a teleprompter is actually very easy!
- Place the monitor in front of you so you can see the lines while you’re talking.
- Use a remote to control the speed of the scroll. This way, you can go at your own pace and make sure you’re hitting all the key points.
- Practice, practice, practice! The more you use the teleprompter, the more comfortable you’ll become with it.
- If you make a mistake, don’t worry! Just keep going and nobody will even notice.
Teleprompters are a great tool to have in your video production arsenal. With a little practice, you’ll be able to use them like a pro in no time!
There are a few things to keep in mind when using a teleprompter, too:
First, practice reading from the prompter before your actual shoot. This will help you get used to the way the words appear on the screen and how fast they scroll by. It also helps you to be familiar with what you’re meant to be conveying to your audience.
It’s also important to make sure that you’re looking into the camera, not at the teleprompter screen, so that you maintain eye contact with your audience. Luckily, teleprompters are usually set up to be close to the camera so that you don’t film the speaker bouncing their eyes from spot to spot.
Finally, don’t be afraid to make adjustments on the fly if you need to; the teleprompter is there to help you, not control you! You can easily make adjustments on the teleprompter itself, too, before filming.
Types of Productions that a Teleprompter is Best Used For
Teleprompters can be used for a variety of productions, from corporate videos to newscasts to livestream events.
Here’s a more detailed list of productions that a teleprompter will help your talent stay on task:
- Live newscasts
- Pre-taped newscasts
- Lines to camera in a commercial
- Interviews
- Spokesperson videos
- Crowdfunding videos
- Kickstarter videos
- Educational/training videos
- Promotional videos
- Livestream Events
Unconventional Uses for Teleprompters
While teleprompters are most commonly used in video production, they can also be used for other purposes.
For example, you could use a teleprompter to give a presentation or speech without having to memorize your lines. Additionally, teleprompters can be used in situations where you need to read from a large amount of text, such as when giving legal testimony or reading from a script. They’re useful for radio and podcast productions, too!
In short, a teleprompter is a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of different ways. So if you’re thinking about using one for your next production, don’t hesitate to give it a try!
Types of Teleprompters
There are a few different types of teleprompters, but they all serve the same purpose: to help you deliver your lines with confidence. Here’s a quick rundown of the different types and how to use them to their highest potential.
Portable Teleprompters
Portable teleprompters are great for interviews, webinars, and other one-on-one or small group situations where you need to be able to move around freely. These usually attach to the back of your camera and have a built-in monitor so you can see your lines while you’re filming.
Floor-Standing Teleprompters
Floor-standing teleprompters are ideal for newscasts, live shows, and other situations where you need to be able to deliver your lines with confidence while also having the freedom to move around on stage. These have a large monitor that’s placed on the floor in front of you, and they often come with a remote so you can control the speed of the scroll.
Desktop Teleprompters
Desktop teleprompters are perfect for webinars, product demos, and other situations where you need to be able to see your lines while you’re talking. These have a small monitor that sits on your desk, and they usually come with a remote so you can control the speed of the scroll.
Ceiling-Mounted Teleprompters
Ceiling-mounted teleprompters are great for large events, conferences, and other situations where you need to be able to deliver your lines with confidence while also having the freedom to move around on stage. These have a large monitor that’s mounted on the ceiling, and they often come with a remote so you can control the speed of the scroll.
Should I rent or buy a teleprompter?
When it comes down to getting your hands on a teleprompter, you should know your options. You can either rent or purchase a teleprompter.
Purchasing can be expensive, with prices ranging up to $5,000. If you know you’re going to use this piece of equipment over and over again, purchasing could be a great investment for you. But, if you’re only going to use it once in a while, or only need it for a short amount of time, purchasing doesn’t make a lot of sense.
Renting is a great option if you only need a teleprompter for a short period of time or for specific projects. Renting a teleprompter or any other filming equipment allows you to use the highest quality gear without breaking the bank. It also means that you don’t have to worry about storage or maintenance when you’re not using it.
If you’re not sure whether you should purchase or rent a teleprompter, we suggest renting one first to see if it’s a good fit for your needs. You can always buy one later if you find that you can’t live without it!
Where Can I Rent a Teleprompter?
C&I Studios has plenty of teleprompters to rent out for any kind of production! We have different types and sizes available to suit your production’s needs. We also have a great crew that can help you work the teleprompter, either beforehand so that you know what you’re doing or we can run it for you during your production so that you can focus on other things the day of. And we have a lot of other production gear available for rent, too!
To learn more about our rental process or to get started, contact us today!