Teleprompters for video production can be a life saver and a time saver. Nothing can hold up a production more than unprepared talent flubbing their lines, but a teleprompter can ensure that the script won't be forgotten and production is flowing smoothly.

Look for ease of operation and reliability when searching for teleprompters for video production. Also decide whether or not you will want a prompter operator or if you'll have the prompter on camera control, for proper pacing. From the cutting edge to the economical teleprompter, technology is within reach. To keep your video production word perfect:

1. Get a state of the art camera teleprompter for smooth production quality.

2. Hunt down a used teleprompter for sale and save a bundle.

3. Be resourceful and use teleprompter software or an online teleprompter.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy a teleprompter so that your video production script rolls right off the tongue

Prompter People has an interactive guide to help you determine which prompter will work best for you needs and with your particular kind of camera, along with a free download of Flip Q dual screen software. IKAN offers a portable teleprompting system. It uses an 8-inch LCD monitor attached to a mounting arm. The arm for this portable teleprompter then attaches to your camera and the monitor sits on top of the lens.

I recommend: Prompter People has a huge variety of teleprompters and provides lot of guidance to ensure you make the right choice. IKAN offers a video demonstration of their portable prompter.

Find a used teleprompter for sale, to get rolling for less

Solaris has a huge selection of used video and concert gear and allows you to post an ad looking for a used teleprompter for sale. Of course used equipment is not as readily available as new, but holding out for a gently used prompter can be worth it for video production companies on a tight budget. Broadcast Store deals in new and used equipment and also has a lot of teleprompters and accessories on hand.

I recommend: Use Solaris Network's "Wanted Gear" section and post your request for a used teleprompter. Search Broadcast Store's huge inventory for great deals on the used equipment that you need.

Use teleprompter software to turn your computer into an affordable video teleprompter

Video University offers Inteliprompter, teleprompter software for a reasonable price, that many video production people swear by. Its smooth scrolling feature allows you to choose font size and will mirror effect your script, so you can reflect it onto a two way mirror over your camera lens, making for seamless eye contact. Though limited to the computer screen, if you don't have too much to say and you want to keep it cheap, Cue Prompter is the way to go. It limits your script to 2000 characters, but this free-access website transforms your web browser into an online teleprompter quickly and easily.

I recommend: Check out Video University for several different versions of the Inteliprompter software. Use Cue Prompter for a free, computer-based teleprompting option.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Teleprompter rental is another option, if you find yourself in a real pinch. Contact your local video equipment companies and television stations to see what types of rental services they have available.