How to Make Talking Head Videos for My Brand

Most brands make the same mistake when they start creating video content.

They think a talking head video is just about sitting in front of a camera and hitting “record.”

But here’s the truth:

A talking head video isn’t really about the person talking. It’s about the story they’re telling, the trust they’re building, and the feeling the viewer walks away with.

Done right, these videos turn a faceless brand into a real voice people believe in.

Done wrong, they become just another boring clip in an endless scroll.

The difference?

It comes down to planning, presence, and execution.

In this post, I’ll break down how to create talking head videos that don’t just fill your content calendar, but actually move the needle for your brand.

Why Talking Head Videos Work

Talking Head Video created by UGC Deck Team

It’s simple.

It’s direct.

And most importantly, it builds trust.

At the core of marketing, trust is the currency that moves people to take action. No matter how great your product or service is, people won’t buy until they believe you.

A talking head video does exactly that: it puts a real person, a face, a voice, and authentic emotion, front and center. That’s powerful because people connect with people, not logos.

a. The Psychology of Human Connection

When someone sees another person speaking directly to them, a psychological trigger kicks in.

It’s called the mirror neuron effect.

Our brains are wired to mirror what we see. When a viewer sees you smiling, explaining, or showing passion for your brand, they feel it too.

This makes the message more memorable and persuasive than text or graphics ever could.

That’s why news anchors, TV hosts, and even influencers feel familiar to us, we see them consistently, so over time, we feel like we know them.

When you show up in a talking head video, you tap into that same effect. Your brand stops being a faceless entity and becomes a trusted voice.

b. Talking Heads Build Authority and Expertise

Think about it:

Who do you trust more, a nameless article on a website, or a founder looking you in the eye, confidently explaining how they solve your problem?

Talking head videos give you a chance to position yourself as the expert.

When you break down a concept, educate your audience, or simply share insights, you demonstrate authority in a way that’s hard to replicate with static content.

It’s not just about what you say, it’s about how you show up.

• Your tone of voice communicates confidence.

• Your facial expressions show passion and sincerity.

• Your presence builds familiarity over time.

This authority compounds. The more consistent you are, the more your audience begins to see you as the go-to person in your niche.

c. They Work Across Every Platform

The beauty of a talking head video is its versatility.

• Post the full version on YouTube or LinkedIn.

• Break it into short clips for Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts.

• Use snippets in paid ads to boost conversions.

• Embed it on your website or sales pages to increase trust.

• Include it in email campaigns to drive engagement.

One video can fuel multiple pieces of content, making it a smart investment of both time and money.

Talking head videos work because they’re built on the most powerful principle in marketing: human connection.

When someone sees your face, hears your voice, and feels your passion, they don’t just learn about your brand, they experience it.

Planning Your Talking Head Video

The biggest difference between a talking head video that converts and one that falls flat?

Preparation.

Most people just hit “record” and hope for the best.

That’s why their videos end up rambling, awkward, or painfully boring.

Planning doesn’t just make your video smoother, it ensures every second works hard to deliver a clear message and move viewers toward action.

Here’s how to plan a talking head video that actually works for your brand:

a. Define the Goal of Your Video

Before you even think about cameras or lighting, you need to know why you’re making this video.

A talking head video without a clear purpose is like going on a road trip without a map, you’ll end up somewhere, but probably not where you wanted to go.

Ask yourself: What do I want the viewer to do after watching this?

Here are four common goals:

• Awareness: Introduce your brand or new product to potential customers.

• Education: Teach something valuable that positions you as an authority.

• Engagement: Build trust and connection with your audience.

• Sales: Drive viewers to take a specific action, book a call, sign up, or purchase.

Once you’re clear on the goal, you can shape the entire message around it.

b. Know Your Audience (Really Know Them)

You’re not just talking to a camera, you’re talking to someone.

The better you understand your audience, the more your message will resonate.

If you try to speak to “everyone,” you’ll end up connecting with no one.

Get specific:

• Who are they? (Job title, role, lifestyle)

• What problem are they facing right now?

• What do they care about most, saving time, making money, feeling confident?

• What language do they use when describing their struggles?

When you know exactly who you’re speaking to, your tone, examples, and call-to-action will feel personal, like you’re having a one-on-one conversation.

c. Outline Your Message (But Don’t Script Every Word)

This is where most people overcomplicate things.

They either wing it and ramble… or over-script it and sound like a robot.

The sweet spot? Bullet points, not paragraphs.

Think of it like giving a presentation:

• Hook: Capture attention in the first 5–10 seconds.

• Problem: Clearly state the challenge your audience faces.

• Solution: Share insights or steps that solve that problem.

• Call-to-Action: Tell them exactly what to do next.

Writing bullet points keeps you structured while still sounding natural and conversational.

d. Decide Who Will Be On Camera

Your spokesperson matters more than you think.

They are the face of your message.

There are three strong options:

Founder/Owner:

Best for personal brands or service-based businesses.

Builds trust by showing leadership directly.

Team Member or Expert:

Great for companies where expertise matters (law, finance, health).

Positions your brand as knowledgeable and approachable.

Customer or Influencer:

Adds social proof and relatability.

Works well for testimonials and case studies.

Choose someone comfortable on camera or willing to practice until they are.

A confident delivery beats a polished script every time.

e. Choose the Right Format and Tone

Not all talking head videos need to look the same.

Your format and tone should match your brand personality and audience expectations.

Here are a few styles to consider:

• Casual and conversational: Sitting at a desk or home office. Great for social media and community-driven brands.

• Professional and polished: Neutral background, strong lighting, and clean branding. Perfect for LinkedIn or corporate clients.

• Dynamic and energetic: Standing, moving around, using props or visuals. Ideal for fitness, coaching, or lifestyle brands.

Your tone sets the mood.

If your brand is fun and approachable, don’t film like a news anchor.

If your brand is serious and technical, don’t record like you’re on TikTok.

f. Write Down Your Call-to-Action (CTA)

Most talking head videos fail because they don’t tell the viewer what to do next.

Even if your video is inspiring or informative, you need to guide the audience to take action.

Examples:

• “Click the link below to book a free consultation.”

• “Message us on WhatsApp to get started today.”

• “Download our free guide to learn more.”

Make it clear.

Make it simple.

Make it easy for them to take the next step.

g. Build a Simple Shot List

A shot list keeps your recording focused and organized.
Even for a talking head video, this matters.

Include:

• Opening shot: The first thing viewers see (close-up, wide shot, or branded intro).

• Main delivery: The bulk of your message, straight to camera.

• B-roll ideas: Supporting visuals like product demos, behind-the-scenes clips, or text overlays.

• Closing shot: A strong visual ending to reinforce the CTA.

This extra step saves you hours of frustration in the editing process.

Setting Up Your Shoot (Even on a Budget)

The quality of your video will make or break your talking head content.

People will forgive average visuals, but they won’t forgive bad sound, distracting backgrounds, or poor lighting.

Here’s the good news: you don’t need a Hollywood budget to make your talking head videos look and sound professional. You just need to understand the essentials and make smart choices with the resources you have.

Let’s break it down step-by-step.

1. Choose the Right Location

Your environment says a lot about your brand before you even say a word.

Quiet is non-negotiable. Even the best mic can’t fix constant background noise.

Turn off fans, AC units, or anything humming in the background.

If you’re near a street, record early morning or late evening when it’s quieter.

Minimal distractions.

Avoid cluttered spaces.

A clean wall, plant, or simple branded backdrop works perfectly.

Branded but subtle.

If you want your logo visible, make it subtle like on a mug or small wall art, not splashed across the entire frame.

💡 Pro tip: If you don’t have an ideal space, hang a neutral curtain or fabric behind you. It’s an instant, budget-friendly backdrop.

2. Lighting: The Game-Changer

Lighting affects how professional your video looks, more than the camera you use.

• Natural light:

  • Face a window for soft, even light on your face.

  • Avoid having the window behind you, or you’ll turn into a silhouette.

  • Record in the morning or late afternoon for the best, most flattering light.

• Budget-friendly options:

  • A ring light (₦15,000–₦30,000) works great for beginners.

  • Two softbox lights create balanced, studio-like lighting for under ₦50,000.

• Avoid harsh shadows:

  • Position lights slightly above eye level and at a 45° angle for a natural look.

💡 Pro tip: Even if you have lights, mix them with natural light for the best effect.

3. Camera Setup: Use What You Have, Upgrade Later

You don’t need a fancy DSLR to start, your smartphone might already be enough.

Smartphone:

Most modern phones shoot in 1080p or 4K, which is more than enough for talking head videos.

Use the rear camera for higher quality and stability.

Lock the exposure and focus before you start recording.

DSLR or mirrorless camera:

Better for long-term use and higher production value.

Ideal if you’re planning a lot of video content.

Webcam:

Works for live streams or virtual recordings, but quality is usually lower.

Use only if other options aren’t available.

💡 Pro tip: Always mount your camera at eye level to avoid unflattering angles. Use a stack of books or a cheap tripod if needed.

4. Audio: Where You Should Spend Money

If you’re going to invest in one thing make it audio.

Bad sound instantly makes your video feel cheap, no matter how good it looks.

Lavalier (clip-on) mics:

Affordable and perfect for solo talking head videos.

Example: Boya BY-M1 or Rode SmartLav+ (₦15,000–₦40,000 range).

USB condenser mics:

Great if you’re sitting at a desk or doing tutorials.

Example: Blue Snowball, Fifine, or Rode NT-USB Mini.

No mic?

Stay close to your phone or camera.

Record in a quiet, padded space (like a closet or room with curtains and rugs to reduce echo).

💡 Pro tip: Always do a 10-second test recording to check for hiss, echo, or background noise.

5. Framing & Composition: Look Like a Pro

How you position yourself in the frame can completely change the vibe of your video.

Headroom: Leave just a little space above your head, not too much or too little.

Rule of thirds: Position yourself slightly off-center for a more cinematic look.

Eye level: Always look straight into the lens, not above or below it.

Distance:

Too close = awkward and cramped.

Too far = disconnected and impersonal.

Ideal distance: Chest-up framing so your hands are visible when you gesture.

💡 Pro tip: If you want to add text overlays, keep space on one side of the frame for captions or graphics.

6. Backup Plan: Shooting When Conditions Aren’t Ideal

Sometimes, you just have to work with what you’ve got.

• If your space is noisy, record short takes and edit out interruptions later.

• If lighting is poor, bring in extra lamps with soft white bulbs.

• If you don’t have a tripod, use books, boxes, or even a sturdy chair to stabilize your camera.

• If you’re recording with a team, use hand signals instead of talking between takes to avoid extra audio cleanup.

Your Simple Budget-Friendly Setup Checklist

– Quiet space with clean background

– Smartphone with rear camera (or DSLR if available)

– Clip-on lavalier mic

– Natural light or ring light/softbox

– Tripod or DIY stand

– Basic editing software like CapCut, iMovie, or DaVinci Resolve

Recording Tips for Confidence & Authenticity

Most people think confidence on camera comes from being “naturally good” at speaking.

It doesn’t.

Confidence comes from preparation and from making the camera feel less like a spotlight and more like a conversation.

Here’s how to show up authentically and deliver a message that actually connects with your audience:

a. Warm Up Before You Hit Record

You wouldn’t start a marathon without stretching. The same rule applies here.

Your voice, facial muscles, and energy need a warm-up:

• Vocal warm-ups: Hum for 30 seconds, then say tongue twisters like “Red leather, yellow leather.” This clears your voice and improves clarity.

• Facial warm-ups: Smile, exaggerate vowel sounds (“A-E-I-O-U”), and loosen up your face to avoid stiffness on camera.

• Energy reset: Jumping jacks, a quick dance, or even a power pose can boost energy before you start.

It might feel silly, but it works and it shows in your delivery.

b. Use Bullet Points, Not a Full Script

Memorizing a word-for-word script is a recipe for sounding robotic.

Instead, outline 3–5 bullet points you want to cover.

This helps you:

• Stay on track

• Sound natural

• Avoid the “reading from a teleprompter” vibe

Think of it like explaining an idea to a friend rather than delivering a formal speech.

Your audience should feel like you’re talking with them, not at them.

c. Start With Your Most Important Point

Most viewers decide in the first 5–10 seconds whether they’ll keep watching.

Don’t waste that time with a long introduction or backstory.

Instead, lead with something powerful:

• A bold statement

• A surprising fact

• A question they’ve probably asked themselves

Example:

“Most brands make this mistake in their talking head videos… and it’s killing their engagement.”

This instantly hooks attention and sets up the value you’re about to deliver.

d. Talk to One Person, Not a Crowd

When you imagine a faceless crowd, your delivery becomes stiff.

Instead, picture a single ideal customer, someone you’ve helped before or a client you’d love to work with.

Speak directly to them.

This shift instantly makes your tone warmer and more personal.

It’s how you build trust, even through a screen.

e. Maintain Eye Contact with the Lens

This one feels unnatural at first.

Looking at yourself on the screen is tempting, but it breaks the illusion of connection.

Instead:

• Look directly at the camera lens

• Imagine the person you’re speaking to is inside that lens

• Tape a small photo or note near the lens as a reminder

It feels awkward at first, but to viewers, it feels like you’re looking straight at them, which deepens engagement.

f. Record in Short Sections

Trying to nail a perfect 3-minute take in one go is stressful.

Instead:

• Break your script into short sections (20–30 seconds each)

• Record multiple takes of each section

• Piece them together in editing

This keeps your energy high and gives you plenty of options to work with later.

Pro tip:

The first take is usually awkward.

The second is smoother.

The third? Often the best.

g. Smile, But Not Too Much

Smiling signals warmth and approachability.

But a forced, nonstop grin feels fake.

The key is to smile naturally at the right moments:

• When greeting your audience

• When sharing something exciting or positive

• When emphasizing key takeaways

For serious or empathetic moments, tone it down.

Your expressions should match your message, not fight it.

Distributing Your Talking Head Video

If no one sees your video, it doesn’t matter how polished it looks or how valuable your message is. Your job isn’t just to make a great video, it’s to get it in front of the right people, in the right format, at the right time.

Here’s where most brands drop the ball.

They spend hours planning, recording, and editing a talking head video...

Only to hit “post” once and walk away.

And then they wonder why it didn’t get traction.

The truth?

Distribution matters just as much as production.

Sometimes, even more.

1. Pick the Right Platforms (Where Your Audience Actually Lives)

Not every platform deserves your attention.

Instead of posting everywhere and burning out, focus on the channels where your audience actually hangs out.

Here’s how to think about it:

• Instagram / TikTok – Short, punchy clips that grab attention fast. Great for awareness and building personality.

• LinkedIn – More polished, insight-driven videos. Perfect for B2B brands and thought leadership.

• YouTube – Long-form content or series that dive deep into topics. Great for SEO and evergreen visibility.

• Email Marketing – Embedding your video in newsletters or campaigns to warm up leads.

• Landing Pages / Sales Pages – Using videos to boost conversions and explain your offer in a personal way.

2. Repurpose Your Talking Head Video Into Multiple Assets

A single video can easily become 10+ pieces of content if you repurpose it correctly.

This is how you get maximum ROI without constantly filming.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Full-Length Video → Post on YouTube, LinkedIn, or your website.

• Short Clips (15-60 seconds) → Share on Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts.

• Square or Vertical Formats → Ideal for Instagram feed posts and stories.

• GIFs or Memes → Pull out fun moments to use in email or social.

• Transcribed Quote Graphics → Take key lines and turn them into visual posts.

• Blog Post → Turn the transcript into a written article for SEO.

Think of your talking head video as the “master content” that feeds every other channel.

4. Use Paid Distribution to Amplify Reach

Organic reach is great… but it’s unpredictable.

If you have a message you need people to see, pay to amplify it.

This doesn’t require a huge budget. Even ₦10,000 ($10–$15) per day can make a difference.

Here’s where to start:

• Instagram & Facebook Ads – Boost clips to a targeted audience.

• LinkedIn Ads – If you’re B2B and targeting decision-makers.

• YouTube Ads – Run pre-roll ads to people watching related content.

The goal isn’t to “go viral.”

It’s to make sure the right people actually see your video.

When to Outsource vs. Do It Yourself

Most brands start off doing it themselves.

And that’s smart at first.

You grab a phone, sit in front of a window for good lighting, hit record, and start talking. It’s simple, cheap, and gets the job done.

But here’s what usually happens:

One video turns into five.

Five turns into a weekly schedule.

Suddenly, you’re spending more time filming, editing, and posting than actually running your business.

That’s when the cracks start to show.

• Videos pile up and never get finished.

• Quality drops because you’re rushing.

• The process starts to feel like a chore instead of a growth tool.

And the worst part? Your audience notices.

They might not say it, but they can feel when your brand is just “getting content out” versus showing up with intention and quality.

Signs It’s Time to Outsource

There’s no exact date on the calendar that says, “Now you hire a team.”

But there are clear signs you’ve outgrown the DIY stage:

• Inconsistent posting: You’re missing uploads because you’re overwhelmed.

• Flat results: Your videos aren’t improving engagement or driving leads.

• No bandwidth: You or your team don’t have time to plan, shoot, edit, and distribute.

• Quality gap: You know what you want your videos to look like, but can’t get them there alone.

If three or more of these are true, it’s time to think seriously about outsourcing.

Why Outsourcing Pays Off

Hiring a team isn’t just about better-looking videos it’s about momentum.

• Consistency you can count on: Regular, on-brand videos without burning out.

• Expert execution: Lighting, framing, editing handled by pros who do this every day.

• Strategy built-in: Not just pretty videos, but videos designed to grow your business.

• Your time back: So you can focus on what only you can do, running and scaling your brand.

Think of it like hiring a trainer for fitness.
Sure, you could work out alone, but having a pro speeds up results and keeps you accountable.

Where UGC Deck Comes In

At UGC Deck, this is exactly what we do.

We help brands move beyond DIY video creation by providing:

• Full-service video production: From planning to editing to final delivery.

• Talking head video expertise: We know how to make your message clear, engaging, and trustworthy.

• Scalable content packages: 30 days of video content starting from ₦200,000, ready to post and optimized for growth.

• A team of creators and editors: So you’re never stuck scrambling to get content out again.

See some of the videos we have worked on:

Whether you need a complete done-for-you solution or a hybrid approach where you record and we handle the rest, UGC Deck is built to keep your brand consistent, professional, and ahead of the competition.

The Hybrid Approach

Outsourcing doesn’t mean you lose control.

Some of the best brands work with us by:

• Recording authentic, behind-the-scenes footage themselves.

• Sending it to our team to edit, brand, and optimize for each platform.

You get to keep the personal touch while we ensure your content looks polished and performs at a high level.

When your videos start feeling like a full-time job instead of a marketing tool, it’s not a sign to quit, it’s a sign to level up.

And UGC Deck is here to help you make that leap without losing your sanity or your audience.

Message us on WhatsApp today, and let’s create a batch of talking head videos that actually move the needle for your brand.