Record a short video

I have a product demo to ship for launch on Friday. Record a 30–45 second vertical video that starts with the problem—show the messy setup on my desk—then cut to the product in use with my voiceover saying the single benefit line. Hold steady shots, use natural light from the window, and end with me looking at camera and saying the CTA: “Link in bio for early access.” Deliver the raw clip by Wednesday so I can edit.

Before I record, make the story easy for someone scrolling at speed—lead with the problem in the first three seconds, show the product solving it in the next 20, and repeat the benefit visually. Suggest two shot lists: one for a solo handheld take and one for a two-shot with a close-up insert. Call out lines that feel like hype and rewrite them into one-sentence, concrete claims I can say in a breath.

I just did one demo recording and it felt flat; I’m recording for our Friday launch and my cofounder expects something that converts. I can’t tell if the problem is my delivery, the lighting, or the framing. What’s the most likely issue and what should I change for the next take to get genuine energy on camera?

Over five product launches we rush recording the night before and the footage looks inconsistent and low-energy, which costs views and credibility. What one habit should I change so our recorded clips are consistently sharper and faster to edit? Give a practical checklist I can use starting this week.