Why Speakers Need Video
(and the Right Crew)
by Patty Mooney, Editor at Crystal Pyramid Productions
Here’s a tale that will show you why speakers need video, professionally captured. The other day, a friend sent us a video clip of himself delivering a motivational speech. “Let me know what you think,” he said. We appreciated his courage—sharing footage of yourself on stage is no small thing. His content? Solid. Engaging. He had the crowd. But the video? That was another story.
The camera had been plopped at the far end of the room, unmanned and wide—like watching a TED Talk from the parking lot. He drifted into frame, out of frame, back again, all while key moments—his facial expressions, gestures, the sparks of inspiration—got swallowed up by distance. The audience may have been moved, but the footage left us unmoved.
And so we told him the truth: This won’t get you the next gig.
If you’re a speaker with serious aspirations—whether you dream of keynoting a conference, landing a TEDx talk, or building a powerful brand presence—video isn’t optional. It’s essential.
But not just any video. You need one that captures your essence, your impact, your presence on stage.
Here’s what we recommend to every speaker who wants to stand out:
1. Invest in Yourself (and Your Crew)
You wouldn’t walk on stage in a wrinkled shirt with a dead mic, so why let your video be anything less than polished and professional? Hire a seasoned video production team with experience in live event coverage. At Crystal Pyramid Productions, we’ve filmed hundreds of speakers—from CEOs to wellness gurus to authors—and we know how to make you shine.
2. Use Multiple Cameras – Speakers Need Video that Looks Professional
At least two. One wide for context, and one tight for facial expressions and emotion. If the budget allows, go for a third on a gimbal for cinematic motion. A single locked-off shot can’t do justice to a dynamic speaker.
3. Mind the Mic & the Lighting
A lavalier mic should be placed correctly—preferably hidden with no visible wire. Avoid handhelds unless it’s part of your style. And lighting? Crucial. If you pace, make sure the entire stage is evenly lit. We’ve seen too many silhouetted speakers vanish into shadows because they moved beyond the light grid.
Also, avoid colored lighting—purple, red, blue. While it may look “cool” to the event planners in the moment, it can wreak havoc in post-production. In one instance, we struggled in the editing bay to correct the garish purple light that drenched a motivational speaker’s face and suit. No amount of color correction could restore a natural skin tone. The result? A compelling speaker who now looked unprofessional on camera. Proper, neutral stage lighting will always serve you better when the goal is video that reflects your best self.
4. Think About the Background – Speakers Need Video that Looks Pleasing
We’ve filmed speakers with exit signs glowing behind them, or crooked projector screens stealing focus. Ask your venue if they provide a clean drape or bring your own branded step-and-repeat. A clean, professional backdrop elevates everything.
Here are a few great background options that elevate the visual experience:
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A clean black or dark velvet drape – timeless, professional, and keeps attention on you.
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A branded step-and-repeat banner – especially effective for conferences or book launches.
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Tasteful uplighting behind soft white curtains – clean and modern, when done right.
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An LED video wall with subtle, dynamic visuals – works well for high-end events if used sparingly.
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A well-lit bookcase, office setup, or elegant architectural element – ideal for fireside-chat-style presentations.
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Natural elements like greenery walls or wood paneling – give warmth and approachability.
Just make sure your background doesn’t compete with you for attention. It should support your message, not steal the show.
5. Avoid DSLR for Stage Work
While DSLRs are great for many productions, we don’t recommend them for speaker footage. Their zoom mechanisms are clunky. For long-distance closeups, we use broadcast-quality Sony cameras and, when needed, a Canon Big Box x55 lens—so we can capture a close-up from 100 feet out without sacrificing quality.
In the end, your speech may be brilliant—but if it’s not captured well, no one beyond the room will ever know.
When you invest in video, you’re not just documenting a moment. You’re building your brand. You’re opening doors. You’re putting your best self forward—frame by frame.
So the next time you step on stage, make sure someone’s got your back behind the lens.
Because you deserve to be seen.
Would you like a custom quote for your next speaking event? We’re here to help. Drop us a line at info@crystalpyramid.com or call us at (619) 644-3000. We’ve been putting San Diego’s best speakers in the spotlight since 1981.
