Sometimes it's hard to practice with a mirror when you need to look at what your hands are doing, like when I was learning a one-handed knot. I never thought about a video camera, though. I'll have to try that!

A FANTASTIC way to practice.... use a webcam!

I found this out recently after installing one on my laptop to talk to long distance friends, that you can set up the angle for different perspectives, all while staring at the screen for immediate feedback. I found that, unlike a mirror, it felt like I was watching someone else's hands...but I was totally in control.

It's a great tool to use

I start the technique or trick slowly at first then as I generate more speed I incorporate the use of a close-up mirror.

Even though it looks like this one has been answered thoroughly, you can use the webcam at one angle (great idea) and a mirror at another angle. This way you can see yourself from the start through the mirror and after a satisfactory performance you can check the webcam (or camcorder) recording to review if you were good at that angle as well.

I practice in front of a Mirror

My digital camera can record movies, so I use that to see how I'm doing after I've tried the trick out for awhile. I might use a mirror every once and a while.

I guess its time for me to get a camcorder!!!

I use a mirror but I'll soon have a video camera and I'll start using that

Good suggestions! It is a good idea to use the mirror to check the angles and get a general idea of how your practice is progressing. But use it sparingly. Video tape from different angles gives you a better idea of how it really looks to the spectators. Video tape an actual performance. This is a real eye opener.

You might want to have a look at the discussions about "The Ostrich Factor: A Practice Guide for Magicians" at: http://www.themagiccafe.com/forums/viewt......0&20

You can also do a search on this forum and find other threads that discuss the book.

Read reviews excerpts by David Regal, David Goodsell and the complete review from MAGIC magazine by Mike Close at my web site.

Good luck!
Gerald

I use a mirror. I like the idea of videotaping a performance, though.

When I first started card magic, I found when I practised with a mirror, I spent a lot of time looking at my hands, which I thought was a bad habit, I use a webcam now, and will be getting a camcorder

Write the script
Rehearse outloud
Incorporate the "moves"
Videotape

When learning the script, I've found it helpful to record yourself on a CD and play it in the car.