Speaking to camera is harder for many people in Germany than elsewhere, and there is a concrete reason: the register that works here is more restrained, and appearing restrained without appearing stiff is the actual exercise.

Why less is more here

In English or Italian, energy carries the video. In German the same energy tips quickly into advertising, and the audience checks out. What carries is a calm, concrete delivery: as if explaining something to a colleague, not as if selling something.

That is good news for anyone who considers themselves not extroverted enough: that restraint is exactly what is needed here.

Why your voice sounds wrong

When you speak, you hear yourself through your skull bones, deeper and fuller. On a recording you hear what others hear. The difference feels fake, but it is purely physical and disappears after about ten videos.

The drills

Record three times in a row without checking

Take three is almost always the best.

Speak to one specific person

Not into the lens, but to somebody you picture.

Prepare only the first line

The rest has to come in the moment, otherwise it sounds read out, and read out sounds particularly conspicuous here.

Do something while speaking

Apply the product, walk, cook. The action removes the stiffness.

Listen back to the audio only

Without the image you judge tone, not appearance.

How many takes are normal

Three to six at the start, two to three after twenty videos. Anyone needing ten has usually prepared too much text.

If it stays an obstacle: faceless formats work particularly well in Germany, because home, tech and B2B focus on the product anyway.

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Frequently asked questions

Do you have to sound excited?

No, in Germany rather the opposite. Calm and concrete carries further.

How many takes are too many?

Beyond ten it is the text, not you.

Is stumbling allowed?

Yes, in moderation. It raises credibility.

Can you work without your face?

Yes, and very well in home, tech and B2B.