Documentary interviews, TV news anchor segments, YouTubers explaining skincare routines, and Michael Scott making awkward eye contact with the lens all have one thing in common: the talking head video. Let’s break down how to make a talking head video that keeps people watching—and maybe even makes them want to click “follow.”
A talking head video features one person, usually framed from the chest up, speaking directly to the camera. There’s no fancy camerawork in one of these videos—just you (or your talent) talking.
This format is direct and personal, since it feels like a one-on-one conversation. When done well, it builds trust fast. That’s why influencers love it—it’s efficient, authentic (or at least looks authentic), and works across platforms.
Who uses talking head videos?
- Documentary filmmakers use them for interviews and expert commentary.
- TV presenters and hosts use them to introduce segments or deliver monologues.
- Comedy shows like “The Office” use them to hilarious, fourth-wall-breaking effect.
- Influencers and content creators use them to teach, share, sell, rant, inspire—you name it.
1. Clarify your “why.”
Before you hit the record button, know what you’re trying to say. This may seem obvious, but people skip this step all the time.
Ask yourself:
- What’s the takeaway for your viewer?
- Why should they care?
- Can you say it in one sentence?
Write down your main point, and stick it on a Post-it note if you have to. If your video meanders, people will bail.
2. Write a script (but don’t sound scripted).
Unless you’re one of those rare magical unicorns who can wing it and still be compelling (and we envy you, extroverts), write a script following these tips:
- Keep it conversational. Use short sentences, speak how you actually do in real life, and drop the big words and the jargon (unless you’re explaining jargon that’s relevant to your niche—then, by all means, go wild!).
- Practice. Read your script out loud, at least a few times, to get comfortable with the rhythm so you don’t talk like a robot. The goal is to sound like you’re having a chat with a friend—not reading off cue cards.
3. Upgrade your audio.
This might surprise you, but audio is more important than video quality. A viewer will forgive a slightly grainy image, but if your audio is echo-y, crackly, or muffled, they’re gone. You’ll at least want a decent microphone and a quiet recording space.
- Microphone: Lavalier mics (the little clip-on ones) or USB condenser mics are solid options without breaking the bank.
- Recording space: Follow our guide to soundproofing a room to have an ideal audio setup. At the very least, be sure to record in a quiet room with the windows closed.
4. Light it up.
Good lighting makes you look professional; bad lighting makes you look like you filmed in a cave. An easy fix to lighting woes is natural light—just face a window and you’re halfway there. If you don’t have access to natural light, ring lights or softboxes are your friends.
5. Look at the camera, not the screen.
This one’s tricky, especially if you’re filming on your phone—but eye contact matters, since it makes viewers feel like you’re talking to them, not at them. After all, the eyes are the windows to the soul.
6. Keep it snappy.
Get to the point fast, then go back in and trim the fat: Edit out pauses and filler words, the “ums” and “likes.” Don’t be afraid of jump cuts, which keep the pace lively and help you stay on message.
Pro tip: If your video is over three minutes long, ask yourself why. Unless you’re delivering a deep-dive, most talking head videos should be short and punchy.
7. Mix it up visually.
Break things up by:
- Adding onscreen text or bullet points
- Cutting to b-roll (footage that illustrates what you’re saying)
- Including images or infographics
- Zooming in slightly for emphasis before zooming back out
These small touches keep the viewer’s brain engaged. And an engaged brain = longer watch time = algorithm love.
8. Add captions.
On platforms like Instagram and Facebook, most people scroll with the sound off. This means that if you’re not captioning your videos, you’re missing a huge chunk of your audience. Use tools like CapCut, Descript, or even TikTok’s built-in captioning to turn your spoken words into written ones. Bonus: Captions help with accessibility, too. It’s a win-win!
9. Be you.
People watch talking head videos because they like your overall vibe or because they appreciate what you can teach them. So let your personality shine through! Smile, use your hands, and show some emotion—whether that’s passion, frustration, excitement, or full-on goofiness.
Your energy on-camera needs to be about 10% higher than in regular life—not fake, just bigger. The camera flattens things, so if you feel like you’re being slightly extra, you’re probably doing it right. Whether you’re giving advice, telling a story, selling a product, or ranting about your latest pet peeve, bring the energy, clarity, and care your viewers deserve.
