How to frame a talking-head TikTok
A talking-head video is just you and the camera, so small framing choices are very visible. Get the eye line, distance and headroom right and the same content looks noticeably more professional.
Eyes in the upper third
Place your eyes about one third down from the top of the frame. Turn on the grid in your camera settings to see the lines.
Leave only a little space above your head. Lots of empty space above makes you look small and pushes your face into TikTok's caption area at the bottom.
Distance and lens
Use the main (1x) camera, not the ultra-wide, which stretches faces near the edges. Stand or sit far enough back that your head and shoulders fill the upper half of the screen, usually about an arm's length or a little more.
The front camera is convenient but often softer. If your phone allows it, film with the rear camera and use a mirror or a second screen to check framing.
Camera at eye level
Raise the phone to your eye height. Looking down into a phone held low adds a double chin; looking up at one held high feels like a video call from a stranger.
Look into the lens, not at your own face on screen. A small sticker next to the lens is a useful reminder.
Leave room for the interface
TikTok covers the bottom and right edge with the caption, username and buttons. Keep your face and any on-screen text away from those areas so nothing important is hidden.
Frequently asked questions
Where should my eyes be in a talking-head frame?
About one third down from the top of the frame, with only a little space above your head. Turning on the camera grid makes the lines visible.
Why does my face look stretched in talking videos?
The ultra-wide lens stretches faces near the edges. Use the main 1x camera and sit about an arm's length back so head and shoulders fill the upper half.
What height should the phone be for a talking-head video?
At your eye level. A phone held low adds a double chin, while one held high feels like an awkward video call.