Teleprompter Rental FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a teleprompter in NYC?
The standard rate to rent a professional teleprompter with an experienced operator in New York City is $945 for a 10-hour day. This includes delivery, setup, and operation by a professional. We offer both in-studio rentals and on-location service. Travel outside of Manhattan may incur additional fees. Contact us for a custom quote for half-day, weekend, or multi-day rates.
Can the audience see the presidential teleprompter script?
No. When correctly set up, the audience cannot see the script. The teleprompter reflects text on a beam-splitter mirror that faces the speaker, while the audience sees only a clear, tinted glass panel. This design allows the speaker to maintain direct eye contact with the audience or camera, preserving a natural, confident appearance.
What are the disadvantages of using a teleprompter?
While teleprompters are powerful tools, there are a few drawbacks:
Cost: You’ll likely need a dedicated operator.
Reading Dependence: Inexperienced presenters may sound monotone if they rely too heavily on reading.
Training Required: Even seasoned speakers may need a brief rehearsal to appear fluid and natural.
That’s why we always recommend having a skilled operator on site to adjust speed and coach talent in real time.
Do news anchors and vloggers use teleprompters?
Yes. News anchors rely on professional teleprompters for on-air delivery. Vloggers, especially those producing scripted content or brand partnerships, also use smaller or app-based teleprompters to maintain eye contact while staying on script. As video becomes more professionalized across all platforms, teleprompters are being adopted beyond the newsroom.
How far away should a teleprompter be placed?
A good rule of thumb is 1 foot of distance for every inch of screen size. For example, if your presenter is 10 feet from the camera, a 10-inch teleprompter monitor is appropriate. Larger monitors (e.g., 17” or 24”) are used when more distance is required, such as in wide shots or when using a jib or crane.
What size teleprompter do I need for my shoot?
That depends on your setup:
12”–15” Prompters. Ideal for tight studio shots, interviews, and for most uses..
17”–24” Prompter. Suitable for stages, broader framing, or longer reading distances.
Presidential (glass-on-stand) Prompters are used for speeches and live events and are typically placed off-camera to the left and right of the podium.
We’ll help you choose the perfect size based on your camera, framing, and the presenter’s comfort.
How do you read a teleprompter without looking robotic or “creepy”?
The key is familiarity with the content and practice. Reading naturally involves:
Knowing the script flow ahead of time.
Using facial expressions and pauses.
Working with a prompter operator to set a comfortable speed.
Our operators are trained to “read the reader,” adjusting scroll speed to match the speaker’s rhythm for maximum authenticity.
Are teleprompters worth it?
If you aim to sound confident, stay on message, and look directly into the lens, a teleprompter is a worthwhile investment. It improves performance, reduces takes, and helps even seasoned speakers look and sound their best on camera or stage.
What does a teleprompter allow the speaker to do?
A teleprompter lets the speaker read their script while maintaining direct eye contact with the audience or lens. It eliminates the need to memorize lines, reducing stress and ensuring message clarity. Teleprompters are used in live television, interviews, political speeches, corporate videos, and e-learning to create a polished, natural performance.
Where’s the best place to position a teleprompter?
For video shoots, the teleprompter mounts directly in front of the camera lens so the presenter appears to look straight at the viewer. For live events, presidential-style prompters are placed to the left and right of the podium at eye level, allowing the speaker to scan naturally without appearing scripted.
Can I use my phone as a teleprompter?
Yes, several smartphone-based apps mimic teleprompter behavior. While handy for vlogging or social media, they are not recommended for professional shoots. These apps lack the screen size, adjustability, and operator control that broadcast or film production demands. For anything beyond a quick self-recording, a complete teleprompter system is essential.
Who controls the speed of the teleprompter scroll?
A teleprompter operator controls the scroll speed in real time, adjusting it to match the presenter’s pace, breathing, and natural pauses. This live control is what sets professional setups apart from DIY solutions. A good operator can make or break the flow of your delivery.