On camera: Building your video confidence

Trainer - Dan Mason

What’s it about?

Video is no longer optional - it consistently outperforms every other content format for reach and engagement. But what’s driving the dominance of video isn’t technical … it’s personal.

The era of polished faceless video has given way to something far more powerful: authenticity. Why? Because in an online world where AI is rampant and you don’t know who to believe, authenticity is the foundation of trust.

What this half-day course WON’T teach you is how to shoot and edit video - NUJ Training Wales’ popular Mobile Video Shoot & Edit training does. This training focuses on the human element of video … YOU!

Some of the basics will still be covered, like framing, lighting and audio. But the most important part of the training will be you on video, using a tone, format, and style designed to speak directly to your target audience. After some initial guidance, the theme of this course will be practice and feedback.

Whether you're sharing specialist knowledge, representing an organisation, or building a personal presence online, you'll leave with a clearer sense of who you're speaking to, what you want to say, and how to say it on camera.

Who’s it For?

Journalists, creators and communicators who are already using video (or have been on our Mobile Video Shoot & Edit course) and want to build confidence in front of the camera.

What Will I Learn?

By the end of this half-day course, you will be able to:

• Build confidence: Try practical techniques to improve body language, speak naturally, and project authenticity.
• Target your audience: Tailor your message directly to audience needs and interests.
• Harness AI. Use AI to help generate ideas and draft scripts.
• Match platform to purpose: Choose the right format and style for your content.
• Frame for impact: Apply composition rules using your mobile phone for practice.
• Technical tips: Implement simple setups to ensure good lighting and audio.

What equipment will I need?

A fully-charged iPhone or Android smartphone (with enough free memory to record video), plus charger. Earbuds or headphones (useful but not essential). Tripods and mounts will be available during the training, but participants are welcome to bring their own accessories.

Timing: 9.30am - 1pm