You might not think you need a prompter. However, ever since I started using my Elgato Prompter, I can’t imagine going without it. It allows me to maintain eye contact during Zoom calls, making the person on the other end feel truly seen. This is especially great when coaching, because it makes the interaction feel much more personal. Additionally, when interviewing people, I can put my notes as an overlay, not having to look to the side.
Here are my interviews with Dr. Ken Berry and Dr. Anthony Chaffee on my YouTube channel using the Elgato Prompter:
Key Features of the Elgato Prompter
The Elgato Prompter is packed with features that make it a valuable addition to any setup. First, the biggest benefit is maintaining direct eye contact with my audience. Consequently, this makes a huge difference in creating connections during coaching sessions and interviews.
Second, the prompter reflects the text on a high-quality two-way mirror, allowing me to read my script while looking directly into the camera and into the eyes of the interviewees. As a result, I can stay on track without having to look away from the camera.
Moreover, the customizable settings allow you to adjust the font size, text window width, opacity, and scroll speed to your liking. You can even control the scrolling manually for better precision.
Lastly, the integrated 9-inch display with a 1024 x 600-pixel resolution serves as a second monitor. As a result, this setup simplifies everything, from script reading to managing live interactions. I use it as an extended monitor via USB.
My Complete Setup
To give you an idea of how this fits into my workflow, here’s my current setup:
- Elgato Prompter: Teleprompter with Built-in Screen for YouTube, Twitch, Zoom, MS Teams and more, Supports DSLR/Webcam/Smartphone, Drag & Drop Monitor Display, Works with Mac/PC & Stream Deck
This is the center piece of my setup. - Nikon Z6II: My go-to camera for high-quality video. Granted, this is overkill. I owned this before any YouTube ambitions. It happened to be compatible with the Elgato Prompter. Win win.
For streaming you might want to invest in a power adapter, that lets you charge and power the camera while streaming. - NEEWER Mini Camera Tripod with 360°Adjustable Ball Head & Cold Shoe, Extendable Tabletop Vlogging Tripod Stand Compatible with Camera iPhone 13 Canon G7X Mark III Sony ZV-1 RX100 VII A6600
This holds my camera with the mounted prompter securely in place. - Cam Link 4: Connects the Nikon Z6II to my MacBook Pro via USB, ensuring top-notch video quality. Make sure to get a USB-A to USB-C adapter if needed.
- Elgato Wave:3: Premium Studio Quality USB Condenser Microphone for Streaming, Podcast, Gaming and Home Office, Free Mixer Software, Sound Effect Plugins, Anti-Distortion, Plug ’n Play, for Mac, PC.
Really the best thing about this microphone is that it can be adjusted using Elagato’s Wave Link Software. It has many filters that quickly turn this USB mic into a pro sounding mic. - Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP: Premium Low Profile Microphone with Cable Management Channels, Desk Clamp, Versatile Mounting and Fully Adjustable, perfect for Podcast, Streaming, Gaming, Home Office
- Lighting: I use a ring light along with the NEEWER 85CM Parabolic Softbox and NEEWER CB150 150W Continuous LED Light on a NEEWER ST-200 200cm Photography Light Stand. This combination offers soft lighting with natural shades, and enhances the video’s quality.
The softbox is big. If you have little kids or puppies running loose, this is not a good choice.
Cables and Accessories
Depending on your setup, make sure to get all the cables you need. I needed a couple of USB-C to USB-C cables, a mini HDMI to HDMI cable, and a female USB-A to male USB-C adapter for my MacBook Pro. However, your cable needs may be different. Thankfully, some cables are included with the products, but just double-check to make sure you have everything you need.
Real-World Performance
Setting up the Elgato Prompter was straightforward. In fact, it connects to my MacBook Pro via USB, and the Elgato Camera Hub app provides intuitive controls for text settings. From changing text size and color to adjusting scroll speed, the app makes it easy to customize the setup.
The prompter functions as a second monitor. Therefore, this allows me to position my interview notes or script right in front of the camera lens, making interactions feel more natural and less distracting. Overall, it’s a subtle change that significantly improves engagement.
If you run into problems, this video helped me out twice:
Recap
I don’t want to miss the Elgato Prompter. Ultimately, it’s not just about the technical novelty but about creating a more professional and engaging experience. Whether you’re hosting a live stream, conducting an interview, or simply looking to improve your Zoom calls, this prompter is worth the investment.
Check it out here and see how it can make a difference in your virtual engagements. Once you try it, you won’t want to go back.
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