To overcome shyness in video chat, start with short sessions, prepare a few topics, smile and remember that the anonymity of chatroulette takes off all the pressure: nobody knows who you are.
Why the camera makes us nervous
Showing yourself on video can be stressful: fear of being judged, of silence, of not knowing what to say. That's normal, and it fades quickly with practice.
The advantage of chatroulette: anonymity. You'll probably never see the other person again, which removes most of the pressure.
Easing in gently
Start with short sessions to get used to it. Prepare two or three simple topics and an opening question. A smile does half the work on its own.
If a conversation makes you uncomfortable, move to the next one. Every exchange is practice that builds your confidence.
Building lasting confidence
The more you practise, the more natural it becomes. Focus on the other person rather than yourself: asking questions takes the attention off your nerves.
On Camyster, free and with no sign-up, you can practise as much as you like, with no pressure and at your own pace.