How to Film a Perfect Testimonial: A Student's Guide

Testimonials are a great way to share your story and inspire others. Whether you’re sharing your experience or how a program helped you, recording a good video testimonial can make a big impact. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think!
This guide will show you easy steps to make your testimonial video look professional and polished.

Why Your Testimonial Matters

This is your chance to tell your story and connect with others who could benefit from hearing it. A clear, well-recorded video shows you’re taking this seriously and makes a lasting impression. Plus, a well-made testimonial builds trust and credibility. Let’s make sure your story is heard—and seen—clearly!

In this blog

  • Why Your Testimonial Matters
  • 01 What to Wear for Your Video
  • 02 Best Place to Film
  • 03 Setting Up Your Camera
  • 04 Simple Lighting Tips
  • 05 How to Get Clear Sound 
  • 06 Quick Checks Before You Record
  • 07 What to Say in Your Testimonial

01 What to Wear for Your Video

Your can affect how well people focus on your message, so dressing appropriately is key. Here are some quick tips:

• Wear solid, neutral colors to avoid distractions.
• Avoid busy patterns, logos, or flashy accessories.
• Dress comfortably but look polished, like you're going to a casual interview.

Keeping it simple helps ensure everyone focuses on your message, not your outfit.

02 Best Place to Film

Where you record your video is just as important as what you say. Find a quiet, clean, and well-lit location. Here’s what to look for:

• Good Lighting: If possible, film near a window to take advantage of soft natural lighting. Avoid backlighting, which can make you look like a shadow.

• Simple Background: Keep it simple and neat. A neutral or clutter-free background keeps the focus on you.

• Quiet Environment: Make sure there’s no noise like traffic, people talking, or loud appliances.

A quiet, well-lit space ensures you’re the star of your video!

03 Setting Up Your Camera

How you frame the shot makes all the difference. Here’s how to get it right:

• Framing: Position the camera to capture your head and shoulders in a "medium close-up" shot, with a little space above your head and from mid-bicep up.

• Eye Level: Keep the camera at eye level to create natural eye contact with the viewer. Avoid angles that are too high or too low, as they can be unflattering.

• Aspect Ratio: Use the 16:9 aspect ratio, which is widescreen. It’s the standard for platforms like YouTube and works well for interviews or testimonials.

A steady, well-framed shot helps keep the viewer’s focus on you and your message.

04 Simple Lighting Tips

Good lighting is important for clarity and to make sure your face is well-lit:


• Sit near a window to take advantage of natural light, if possible.
•Indoors, use soft lighting from a lamp or ring light to avoid shadows.
•Avoid—backlighting, as light from behind can cast you in shadow and blur your face.

Proper lighting ensures you look bright and clear on camera.

05 How to Get Clear Sound

Set yourself up to have your message come through loud and clear with these tips:

• Record in a quiet place to minimize background noise.
• Speak clearly at a natural pace—don’t rush your words.
• If you have a microphone or earphones with a mic, use them to improve sound quality.

If not, sit close enough to your phone’s mic so your voice is heard clearly.

06 Quick Checks Before You Record

Quick Checks Before Recording:

- Is your lighting good, and is the background clean?
- Is the camera steady and at eye level?
- Is your space quiet, with no distracting noises?
- Are you dressed appropriately for the video?

Doing these quick checks will help you feel confident and ready to record.

07 What to Say in Your Testimonial

When recording your video, speak simply and be real. Here’s a basic outline you can follow:

• Introduce yourself: Say your name and a little about who you are.
• Describe your experience: Share what the program or service has meant to you.
• Key Benefits: Talk about how it helped you or what you’ve learned.
• Encouragement to Others: End with a positive message or recommendation.

Speak naturally, like you’re having a conversation. There’s no need to memorize a script—just let your thoughts flow.

You’re Ready to Record!

With these tips, you’re ready to record a great testimonial that captures your story clearly and confidently. Remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect—just be yourself, relax, and speak from the heart. Once you’re done, review your video to make sure everything looks and sounds great.