Video Avatar

A video avatar adds a lifelike video presence to your AI Twin — it speaks, listens, and idles just like you. To create one, we need a short video sample recorded by you. Once you submit your sample, our team will handle the rest.

Before You Record

Three things to keep in mind before you start:

• No cuts or edits — the video must be one continuous, unedited take
• Minimum 2 minutes — the full recording should be at least 2 minutes long
• Three sections — your video needs to include a Listening segment, a Talking segment, and an Idling segment in that order

Recording Structure

Your video is divided into three distinct segments. Record them back-to-back in a single take.

1. Listening — 15 seconds (silent)

Start by looking at the camera without speaking. Use natural expressions — a slight smile, a nod, a raised eyebrow — to appear engaged and attentive. This is how your avatar will look when it’s not speaking.

2. Talking — 90 seconds

Speak directly and conversationally to the camera. Use your normal tone and pace. Clear audio matters here — this segment shapes how your avatar sounds and how clearly it delivers responses. Avoid background noise.

3. Idling — 15 seconds (silent)

End with a calm, neutral expression. Light, occasional nods are fine. This is your avatar’s resting state — the look it holds between responses — so keep it still and natural.

Listening vs. Idling: The Listening segment is more expressive and engaged. The Idling segment is quieter and more passive. Both are silent — but they serve different moments in a conversation.

Recording Environment

Background

Record against a plain, static background — a clean wall or professional green screen both work well. Avoid anything that moves, reflects light, or creates visual noise behind you.

Camera

Use a camera that shoots at least 1080p HD. Frame yourself from the chest up. Hands should stay relaxed and out of the shot if possible — full-body recordings are not supported.

Lighting

Use soft, even lighting that eliminates shadows on your face. Two diffused lights placed on either side works well. If you look too pale or washed out, warming up the color temperature slightly (around 4800K) can help. A subtle backlight behind and above can also help separate you from the background.

Tips

• Maintain steady eye contact with the camera throughout the entire recording
• Remove glasses, shiny jewelry, or reflective clothing — these can interfere with processing
• Keep movement minimal; avoid swaying or loud breathing
• If possible, do two takes: one with very little movement, and one with 4–5 slow, subtle gestures that stay below the shoulders

Submitting Your Video

Once your recording is complete, upload the file to a shareable location (Google Drive, Dropbox, WeTransfer, etc.) and send the link to support@steno.ai. Our team will take it from there and let you know when your video avatar is ready.

Questions? Contact support@steno.ai.