Let’s be honest:
No one loves hearing their own voice recorded for the first time.
And seeing yourself on screen? That can feel just as weird.
“Do I really sound like that?”
“Is that what I look like when I talk?”
“I look tired / older / awkward / [insert personal critique here].”
If that’s ever crossed your mind, you’re far from alone.
It’s one of the most common reasons people don’t make video — even when they know they should.
So let’s talk about where that feeling comes from, why it’s more normal than you think, and how to get past it (without pretending to be someone you’re not).
You’re Not Alone — Everyone Feels It
You’re in good company.
Even professional presenters and experienced speakers often cringe when they watch themselves back.
The most common hang-ups I hear are:
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“I hate my voice.”
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“I look tired or awkward.”
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“I come across too flat / too intense / too old / too nervous.”
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“I’m just not that confident in front of a camera.”
Sound familiar?
You’re not wrong to feel that way — but that discomfort isn’t a reason to avoid video. It’s just something we can work through together.
Why You Think You Look or Sound Worse Than You Do
Here’s a quick bit of science:
The voice you hear in your head? It’s filtered through your skull and internal vibrations. That’s why it sounds deeper, smoother, or more ‘normal’ to you.
But the voice on a recording? That’s how everyone else hears it — and you’re just not used to that version.
Same goes for how you look on screen.
You’re used to mirrors (which are reversed), seeing yourself in motion (not frozen mid-blink), and never watching yourself talk in full flow.
So when you do see or hear it back, it feels wrong — but only because it’s unfamiliar.
Everyone else already sees and hears you that way, and they’re fine with it.
This Is Where a Pro Helps
Working with someone who knows what they’re doing can take a huge amount of that pressure off.
Here’s how I help clients feel more comfortable — and look and sound their best:
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Lighting and framing – It’s amazing what a difference a few small adjustments make. You’ll look polished and natural without being overly styled.
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Support and direction – I guide you through it, ask the right questions, and help you stay relaxed on camera. It’s more like a conversation than a performance.
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Editing with purpose – We trim out the waffle, polish the delivery, tighten the message. You’ll sound sharper, more confident, and still completely you.
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Filming with flattering angles – I know what works for different body types, spaces, and styles — no bad angles here.
Confidence Comes With Practice
The first video is always the hardest.
But here’s what I’ve seen, time and again:
Clients who start out nervous, doubtful, or convinced they’ll hate the result… often end up surprised — and even proud — when they see the final cut.
You don’t need to become a camera-loving extrovert overnight.
You just need the right environment, some professional guidance, and a small nudge to give it a go.
So, What If You Hate How You Look or Sound on Video?
It’s okay.
It’s normal.
But it shouldn’t stop you from using one of the most powerful tools to grow your business.
If this is the barrier that’s been holding you back, let’s talk.
We can start small, keep it comfortable, and build your confidence over time.
No pressure. No judgment. Just support.