Helping On-Camera Talent Shine with a Teleprompter

A teleprompter is one of the best tools for helping on-camera talent deliver their lines while keeping eye contact with the lens. But even with the technology in place, not everyone feels comfortable reading from one. As a producer, you can set your talent up for success by guiding them through a few simple techniques.

Write Conversational Scripts

A natural performance starts with the right script. Instead of writing like an essay, aim for how people actually talk. Short sentences, everyday language, and a conversational flow help your talent sound more authentic.

Use Bullet Points When Appropriate

Tips on reading from a Teleprompter

For strong public speakers, sometimes bullet points are all they need. This approach reduces reliance on the prompter and keeps their delivery spontaneous and relaxed.

Encourage Relaxation and Authenticity

Remind talent that they don’t need to lock onto the lens for every word. Natural pauses, glances away, and hand gestures can make their delivery feel more genuine. Practicing out loud will also reveal whether the script feels comfortable.

Emphasize Practice

Rehearsing the script out loud builds confidence, helps with pacing, and highlights any awkward phrasing that may need to be adjusted before the shoot.

Bring Emotion to the Delivery

A teleprompter isn’t just about reading words — it’s about performance. Encourage talent to convey tone, emotion, and energy so the audience feels connected to the message.