Your first time using a teleprompter can feel intimidating. Will you look natural? Will you be able to keep up? What if you mess up? These concerns are universal—and completely addressable.
After guiding thousands of first-time users through their initial teleprompter sessions, we know what works. Here's everything you need to know.
Before Your Session
- Read your script aloud at least twice before arriving
- Mark tricky words or phrases that might trip you up
- Get rest—fatigue shows on camera
- Stay hydrated—dry mouth affects delivery
During Setup
- Ask questions—operators want to help you succeed
- Request adjustments to font size, speed, or position
- Take your time during rehearsal
- Find your comfortable distance from the screen
During Performance
- Trust the operator to match your pace
- Focus on meaning, not individual words
- Breathe naturally at punctuation points
- If you stumble, keep going—don't restart unnecessarily
Common First-Timer Mistakes
- Speaking too fast (nerves speed you up)
- Staring without blinking
- Keeping your head perfectly still
- Expecting perfection on the first take
Remember: everyone was a first-timer once. Even the most polished news anchors had their first teleprompter session. Give yourself grace, trust the process, and focus on communicating your message.
Ready for Your First Session?
Our patient operators specialize in helping first-time users feel comfortable and confident.
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