iPad as a teleprompter

1. Choose a Teleprompter App:

There are several apps available for turning your iPad into a teleprompter. Some of the top options include:

• Teleprompter Pro: Offers adjustable speed, text size, and a mirror mode to display the text correctly when reflected in the teleprompter.
• PromptSmart Pro: Uses voice recognition to automatically scroll the text based on your speaking pace, a great feature for ensuring smooth delivery.
• iPrompt Pro: A simple, user-friendly option with customisable settings for a professional teleprompter experience.

Most of these apps have free versions with limited features or paid versions for full functionality.

2. Prepare the Script:

• Format the Script: Before you start, ensure your script is formatted properly for easy reading. It should be broken up into manageable sections or paragraphs, with large font size for easy viewing.
• Upload the Script: Many teleprompter apps allow you to upload your script directly via cloud storage, email, or from a text file. Some apps also support syncing scripts between devices.

3. Set Up the Teleprompter Rig:

To achieve a professional setup, you’ll need a teleprompter rig that holds the iPad at an appropriate distance and angle in front of the camera lens. Here’s how:

• Mounting the iPad: Attach the iPad to a teleprompter rig or tripod. The iPad should be positioned directly in front of the camera lens, ideally at eye level.
• Adjust the Reflective Screen: Most professional rigs come with a reflective screen (a piece of transparent glass or acrylic) that mirrors the text from the iPad’s screen. This screen reflects the text so that the speaker can read it without looking away from the camera lens.

You can find budget-friendly teleprompter kits that include the rig and mounting hardware specifically designed for tablets.

4. Adjust the Text and Scrolling Speed:

Once your iPad is mounted in place, open your teleprompter app and adjust the settings:

• Font Size: Choose a large enough font size for easy reading, especially if the script is being read from a distance.
• Scrolling Speed: Set the scrolling speed to match the speaker’s delivery. Many apps allow you to control the speed manually or with a Bluetooth foot pedal for hands-free control.
• Mirror Mode: Ensure the text is mirrored, as this allows it to be displayed correctly on the reflective screen of the teleprompter rig.

5. Lighting and Camera Setup:

Make sure that your lighting is positioned to avoid any glare or reflections on the teleprompter screen, as this can make the text difficult to read. Proper camera alignment is crucial to ensure the speaker’s gaze appears natural while reading the script.

6. Optional Accessories:

• Bluetooth Foot Pedal: For smoother operation, you can pair a Bluetooth foot pedal with the iPad to control the scrolling without needing to touch the screen.
• External Mount: If you don’t have a dedicated teleprompter rig, you can mount the iPad on a tripod and use a DIY setup, but a professional rig is ideal for stability and clear reflection.