Breaking the Fourth Wall: Why Performers Should Look Beyond the Lens
Have you ever watched some online content and one or both of the creators either keep looking or staring at the camera? This is called, Breaking the Fourth Wall. Unless you are doing stand up comedy, a singer on stage or making a mockumentary, staring down the camera is a big no-no. Let's delve into why:
Maintaining the Illusion: Belief is Key
Ask yourself: How real do I want my project to be?
A core tenet of performance is creating a believable world for the viewers. Whether it's a dramatic scene, a comedy or a love scene where you are giving someone 9 inches and balls deep of pleasure, the goal is to transport viewers into the fantasy you are selling. Looking into the camera disrupts this illusion of the fantasy. Suddenly, the creator isn't going to pound town anymore; they're acknowledging the camera and are silently patting themselves on the back. How does the scene partner feel about this kind of behavior?
Maintaining Focus & Connection:
Creators build energy and connection by interacting with their fellow creators or the audience itself. Eye contact with the camera pulls focus away from crucial elements in the video. A creator staring down the lens might miss a subtle reaction from their scene partner. Content creators who are fixated on the camera will miss a non-verbal gesture from their partner, trying to signal their enjoyment or discomfort in a certain act or position which could break the connection between the two of you. When the connection is broken some performers struggle to remain focused on the main objective of giving your viewers what they want or frankly, what they deserve when they subscribe to you. Yes, the viewer does notice the change as soon as it happens.
The Power of Subtlety:
A creator doesn't need to scream "Look at me!" to be captivating. We've subscribed to you and are already watching your media. Staying in the moment with your partner and responding to what they are doing and how it feels is a very powerful gesture and by far more engaging than staring directly into the camera. Most creators will tell you they are checking to make sure the camera hasn't tipped over or something similar. However, Subtlety should be used when performing this check. A quick glance once in a while or a peek when you switch positions are both good options and the fantasy you are selling remains in tact.
Exceptions to the Rule: Breaking the Wall on Purpose
There are exceptions, of course! In certain contexts, breaking the fourth wall can be intentional and effective. Think of a comedian directly addressing the audience, or Ryan Reynold's, Dead Pool and how this was often used in The House of Cards. These are examples that are successful breaking the fourth wall. But for most shows, keeping your eyes off the camera strengthens the story and keeps the audience immersed in the world you've created.
The Takeaway: Focus on the World You Create
By keeping their focus on the world of the performance, actors, singers, and dancers can create a more immersive and engaging experience for the viewers. So next time you're in front of the camera, remember: make eye contact with your scene partner, not the camera and do your thing. Stop using your fellow creator like a video prop and captivate your viewers so they keep cumming and will want to return for more of your content.
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