When people agree to record a video message, most of the work is already done.
What usually trips them up isn’t technology—it’s uncertainty.
They wonder what to say, how long to talk, or whether they’re “doing it right.”
Collect video messages from friends and family into one beautiful wall. Start free — pay only when you deliver.
A small amount of guidance before they hit record can completely change the quality of the videos you receive—and just as importantly, how confident contributors feel while recording.
The goal: calm, not control
You’re not trying to direct or script anyone.
You’re simply removing friction.
The best video messages feel natural, personal, and unpolished in the best way. Your role is to make it easy for people to show up as themselves.
The most important thing to say (first)
Start by lowering the bar.
People need to hear this explicitly:
There’s no right way to do this. Short, honest messages are perfect.
This single sentence reduces anxiety more than any technical tip ever could.
What people actually want to know
Most contributors are quietly asking themselves:
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How long should this be?
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What should I talk about?
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Do I need to rehearse?
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Will this be awkward?
You can answer all of that in a few gentle lines.
Simple guidance that works almost every time
You don’t need a checklist—just a few anchors.
1. Length
A minute or two is more than enough.
This helps people avoid rambling or overthinking.
2. Content
Say whatever feels natural—how you know them, a memory, or something you appreciate.
This gives direction without scripting.
3. Tone
Speak like you would if you were talking to them directly.
That’s it. That’s the secret.
Reassure them about perfection
People often worry about:
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Messing up words
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Pausing
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Laughing
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Getting emotional
Let them know those moments are welcome.
Pauses, laughs, and emotion are part of what makes these messages meaningful.
This permission changes everything.
Collect video messages from friends and family into one beautiful wall. Start free — pay only when you deliver.
Light technical tips (only the ones that matter)
Avoid overwhelming people with gear talk. Keep it practical and minimal.
You can say:
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Try to record somewhere relatively quiet
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Face a window or light if possible
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Hold the phone steady or prop it up
No apps. No settings. No jargon.
Where to look (this one helps more than you’d expect)
A quick reminder makes videos feel more connected:
Looking at the camera helps it feel more personal—but don’t worry if you forget.
Again: guidance without pressure.
If someone says, “I don’t know what to say”
Offer one optional prompt:
You could share a favorite memory, something you admire about them, or what you hope comes next.
One prompt is enough. More than that can freeze people up.
What not to include
Avoid:
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Long lists of prompts
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Examples that feel performative
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Instructions that sound like rules
If it feels like homework, people will put it off.
A reminder worth repeating
People don’t remember polished videos.
They remember sincere ones.
Most contributors underestimate how meaningful their message will be simply because it’s them.
Final thought
If someone records a short, imperfect message with genuine care, you’ve succeeded.
Your job isn’t to produce content—it’s to help people feel comfortable showing up.
Collect video messages from friends and family into one beautiful wall. Start free — pay only when you deliver.
