Although working with Zoom provides a reasonable quality recording, the resolution is low so, I am currently experimenting with you recording using your own smartphone to capture a higher resolution image. This involves you taking a little more time to organise the setup, but I do believe it is worth it for the improvement in the quality of the finished film. I will also record using Zoom, as a backup.

Follow these guidelines to prepare as best you can in advance of our session, but please don't stress about it. At the start of our call, we’ll check to make sure everything is working well and make any adjustments needed.

Other than the technical requirements that follow, there is little you need to do to prepare for the session. Try not to plan what you are going to say. You may have an intention for the film you’d like to create but I find when people speak from the heart about their work, or what matters to them, this is when the most engaging words come. The way I work is about capturing what arises in the moment, trusting your inner knowing and wisdom.

• Take a few minutes immediately before our call to sit quietly.

• We'll begin with a brief chat to get settled, whilst checking everything is set up and working well.

• This is not an interview or a conversation. My intention is to pay attention with a neutral face - this isn't a sign I am bored but a way to allow you complete freedom to be in the moment without relying on feedback from me. It may feel weird at first but trust that it is okay.

• You may stay silent, you may speak if words arise. There is no need to fill the silence with words. Take time to pause, breathe and allow what comes. It’s likely that I will remain silent, although I may make a comment or ask a question if it feels appropriate. Really, there is no expectation for the session. It will be whatever it is.

Equipment

• You will need a device with a webcam for our Zoom call - this could be a laptop, desktop or tablet.

• A smartphone, or tablet to record the session locally.

• Small tripod, or sticky tape or similar, to position the smartphone for recording

• Post-it Notes (to cover the screen of the camera during the session so you are not distracted by your own image).

• Choose somewhere as quiet as possible, away from all distractions, where you won't be disturbed. (Pop a note on your door if you need to).

• Take time to think about the background you’d like in your film. A blank wall works well, or you may choose your usual environment to give more insight into who you are. If you choose this option do take time to really pay attention to what’s visible and be sure you are happy with what people will see.

• Position yourself on an upright dining type chair (to minimise movement when we are recording), with a back low enough not to be seen above your shoulders. (Please avoid using a swivel office-type chair which may be too tempting to absent-mindedly rotate during the session.)

• The device you will be using for our Zoom call needs to be set up so the webcam is around eye-level, or slightly above. Take some time experimenting with the positioning. This is often higher than you might be used to - if so, use something to raise it up - and have some books or magazines available to finely adjust the height as necessary once we begin the call.

• Sometimes because of the position of the webcam it can appear that we are not looking at each other, so at the start of the call we will spend a little time getting the positioning right to ensure it feels like we are connecting with each other visually. This has an important effect on the feel of the session and the impact of the recording.

• You’ll be using the front or ‘selfie’ camera, the one on the same side as the screen.

• Check your filming settings by going into ‘camera mode’ and clicking the ‘settings’ button. Look for the setting for Font Camera. For best results the video ratio should be set to 16:9 FHD 1920 x 1080.

• Check you have around 10GB of free memory available for the recording. Ensure the phone is fully charged before we begin the session.

• Switch the phone to Flight or Airplane mode to prevent any interference during the recording.

Sound

• Usually the quality of the mic on a smartphone is good so the local recording will be done using that.

• Do make sure it is not covered with tape when positioning it on your screen.

Lighting

• Natural indoor daylight works best, but avoid being in full sun.

• Position yourself side-on to, or facing, a window, but not with a window behind you.

What to Wear

• Wear clothes you are comfortable in.

• Ensure the colour of your top contrasts with the colour of your background. It’s possible to look like a floating head if it’s a similar colour!

• Avoid very fine checks or stripes which can appear to be moving when recorded.

• Remove anything that may make a noise that could be picked up by the microphone - e.g. jewellery that rattles or clangs.