Are you a content creator looking to up your on-screen game? Are you torn between investing in a professional teleprompter setup or going DIY? We get it and in this post we’ll help you decide between a DIY teleprompter and a professional teleprompter setup. We’ll also look at affordable teleprompter setups and simple teleprompter setups so you can make the right choice for your content creation.
Let’s define first what a teleprompter is and why it’s a must-have for content creators across all industries. A teleprompter setup is a display device that delivers scripts on camera seamlessly. You read from a screen while looking at the camera and it creates a more engaging and authentic connection with your audience.
In a professional teleprompter setup you have dedicated hardware for this purpose. It includes a prompter glass that reflects the text, a frame to hold the glass, a cover to prevent unwanted reflections, and a platform for your camera.
The primary advantage of investing in a professional teleprompter is its ability to maintain direct eye contact with your viewers. As the text is reflected on the prompter glass, it appears right in front of your camera lens. When you read your script, your eyes naturally focus on the lens, creating the illusion of genuine eye contact. This connection enhances the authenticity and credibility of your message, making it more compelling and memorable.
If you opt for a professional teleprompter setup, consider the following features to maximize its benefits:
For those on a budget, a DIY teleprompter may seem like an appealing option. DIY setups often involve using everyday materials such as smartphones, tablets, or even cardboard to create a home teleprompter. However, they come with certain limitations, with the primary one being the challenge of achieving proper eye contact.
With simple teleprompter setups that you make yourself, the text might be positioned below or above the camera lens. This can lead to the speaker's eyes appearing to divert away from the audience, which is not ideal for maintaining engagement. Authentic eye contact is crucial because it fosters a connection with your audience, builds trust, and conveys confidence.
Building a DIY teleprompter can be a fun and cost-effective project. Here's a basic guide to get you started:
When deciding between a DIY teleprompter and a professional setup, it's essential to consider your specific content creation goals. Ask yourself the following questions:
Looking for a budget-friendly way to get professional results? The Teleprompter.com app lets you scroll through your script while recording, giving the impression of a high-end teleprompter setup, without the bulky gear. Just place your phone slightly below the camera lens to maintain natural eye contact with your audience.
The app is built for flexibility. Easily switch between vertical and horizontal orientations to match the platform you’re recording for—whether it’s TikTok, YouTube, or Instagram. And while phone cameras can sometimes compromise on quality, the Teleprompter.com app supports up to 4K resolution, so your videos stay sharp and polished.
Download the Teleprompter.com App today on the App Store or Google Play and start recording like a pro.
In the battle of DIY teleprompter vs. professional setup, the latter clearly has the upper hand when it comes to maintaining authentic eye contact with your viewers. While investing in a quality teleprompter may require some financial commitment, it's worthwhile if you aim to consistently deliver polished and engaging content.
We hope this comparison has shed light on the importance of eye contact and the benefits of using teleprompter hardware. Remember, experimentation is key, and you should choose the setup that aligns with your content creation goals and budget.