The Ten Commandments
or
If You Are Going To Work With Children And Animals, Here Are Some Things You Should Know

  1. When meeting the child or children for the first time, take time to learn their names.
  2. Make sure the children's parent or guardian is not-too-far from the set.
  3. Make sure that the film crew are nice to the children and refrain from using bad f*****g language.
  4. Take time to find out what the child is like by talking to them before the filming starts...
    If they are:
    Shy - do not pressure them too much,let them get used to the surroundings.
    Nervous - assure them that they are going to have a great time and tell them exactly what is going on and have their parent or guardian close by to offer support.
    Confident - don't worry too much, just keep an eye on their behaviour.
  5. Without being cold and condescending show the children you are in charge.
  6. Take time to explain to the children exactly what they have to do.
  7. Don't be afraid to ask the children if they need to go to the bathroom... chances are they will be too afraid to ask you!
  8. Practise the piece you are about to film a few times and save the performance for the 'real thing'.
  9. Children tend to be really good in the first two takes, three is pushing it... more than three and the children will get bored.
  10. Between takes,take the children away from the set to relax in a room with their parents and guardians, have some art stuff and games in there to keep them amused.

...stick to these guidelines and your children's filmshoot should be fun!

Download "The Ten Commandments" as a PDF file.

Dave's Top Ten Presenting Tips

  1. The more comfortable you are with yourself, the more confident you will look on camera.
  2. When talking to the camera, look into the middle of the lens and have as much ‘eye contact' as possible... ...remember, the person watching wants you to talk to them.
  3. Learn as much as you can about the subject you are about to present, be it from a script or talking to a person you are about to interview... ...the people who don't do the groundwork end up looking very silly on camera.
  4. Know your limitations.
  5. Be yourself.
  6. Always have your target audience in mind.
  7. Do not patronise your audience.
  8. Maintain a good level of energy throughout the shoot and take care not to get stressed.
  9. Keep your mind focussed on the job.
  10. Don't let your ego become bigger than your waistline!

Good luck!

Download "Dave's Top Ten Presenting Tips" as a PDF file.

Want to know more about Dave Benson Phillips Presenter Courses? Please email dave@davebensonphillips.co.uk

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