Pro Tips
Practical advice to help you record a standout entry and get more votes.
Vocal Performance
- ✓Warm up your voice for at least 5–10 minutes before recording.
- ✓Stay hydrated — drink room-temperature water, not cold.
- ✓Stand or sit straight to support proper breathing and projection.
- ✓Sing directly into your microphone at a consistent distance of 6–8 inches.
- ✓Record multiple takes and use the best one.
Audio Quality
- ✓Record in a small, carpeted room to reduce echo and reverb.
- ✓Use a dedicated USB microphone if possible — phone mics work but can pick up more noise.
- ✓Avoid recording near air conditioners, fans, or open windows.
- ✓If using backing tracks, keep the music volume noticeably lower than your vocals.
- ✓Do a test recording and listen back through headphones to catch issues.
Video Framing
- ✓Position the camera at eye level — not angled up from the floor or down from above.
- ✓Keep your face and upper body in frame throughout the performance.
- ✓Record horizontally (landscape) for a more professional look.
- ✓Make sure your face is clearly visible — avoid strong backlighting.
- ✓A simple, uncluttered background keeps focus on you.
Lighting
- ✓Face a window or light source — natural light is your best friend.
- ✓Avoid being backlit (light source behind you) as it silhouettes your face.
- ✓Ring lights are an affordable and popular upgrade for home recordings.
- ✓Soft, diffused light is more flattering than harsh direct light.
Engagement & Presentation
- ✓Look directly at the camera lens to create eye contact with viewers.
- ✓Choose a song that suits your vocal range and showcases your strengths.
- ✓A short intro or outro can make your entry more memorable.
- ✓Genuine emotion and connection to the song often outperforms technical perfection.
- ✓Dress in something that makes you feel confident!