What to wear on camera. 10 tips to stand out.
Updated: Oct 8, 2021
As a videographer and storyteller, one of my main goals is to make you look great on camera with the right lighting and angles that flatter you. How you present yourself
when you show up for filming makes a huge difference. The point of an interview is to draw attention to you and what you have to say. It's important and we want you to rock it. People will have a hard time listening to you if they are distracted by wild prints, patterns that move on camera and messiness.
Here are 10 tips that will help you be your best self visually on camera
1. Be comfortable. Don't make the mistake of going out and buying something new right before your scheduled filming. Chances are you could end up wearing something that you don't feel yourself in because it rides up, wrinkles, buckles and is just not your style. Wear something you know looks good on you. Have a friend take some phone shots, so you can see yourself from different angles. Usually, clothes that aren't too loose or too tight look the best.
2. Look yourself. Wear something that relates to your business, subject matter, audience and atmosphere.
If you never wear a suit, don't feel like you need to wear one for filming. Even if you are someone who almost always wears a suit at the office, sometimes it best to wear something a little more casual if you are at an event, like a conference in the mountains or an employee retreat. Save the suits and formal business attire for those times on camera when it is important to look more professional and commanding. Sometimes a branded T-shirt or golf shirt is appropriate with the logo of your company. It just depends on the circumstances. And lots of skin and cleavage are a no-no unless you are at a Gala or other appropriate event.
3. Wear solid flattering colors. Avoid wearing black and white on camera. Wear colors that compliment your skin tone. Blue looks great on everyone. It is best to wear solid colors and clean lines. Small prints, stripes, herringbone, checks and complicated patterns are distracting on camera.
4. Wear simple jewelry and accessories. There have been a number of times when I've had to ask someone to remove a piece of jewelry because it made too much noise and interfered with the sound during an interview. Leave large dangling earrings and bracelets with lots of bangles and charms home. And don't wear necklaces and scarves that are huge and distracting. Same for watches. Don't wear one that will really stand out. The focus should stay on you and what you are saying.
5. Make sure your hair is neat. Save the messy styles for later. Both men and women should wear hair nicely styled, out of the face, and without fly-a-ways and hair popping up out of place. Bring a comb or brush with you and check yourself in the mirror before you go on camera to make sure your hair looks good and isn't distracting from your face.
6. Wear makeup or powder. It is wonderful when your video producer provides a professional makeup artist on set to make sure you look your best on camera. When that isn't an option, you must take the matter in to your own hands. There are plenty of professional makeup artists around and if you have the budget, you may consider making an appointment for the day of your filming. If that is not an option, inexpensive cosmetic products will work. For both men and women, a light foundation on your face and neck that matches your skin tone will even out your complexion and you'll look better on camera. A lot of men won't wear makeup but should really consider adding at least a little translucent powder to smooth skin and curb shine. Shave to prevent or reduce the look of the five o'clock shadow and trim any facial hair. Women should also add a little eye makeup, rouge and lipstick. Add just enough to add color and make your eyes stand out on camera without being too overbearing.
7. Bring clothing options with you. It is always best to have a couple of outfit choices in case what you planned to wear clashes with the background or doesn't look good on camera. Producers love to have choices of different colors and styles.
8. Wear a fresh and calm smile. Hey. That's why they call it "beauty sleep". A good night's rest will do wonders for the way you look and feel on camera. It is okay to be a little nervous, but try to relieve your jitters with some quiet time and maybe even a little meditation before you start the filming session.
9. Wear contact lens instead of glasses. The problem with many glasses is that they can cause a nasty glare under lights. If you are really uncomfortable without them, then you should wear them and work with the camera crew to adjust the light. Do wear anti-glare glasses if possible.
10. Wear a mask if appropriate. In most cases, you won't wear your mask during an interview. There are a few exceptions. In a clinical setting, you may need to wear a mask during the interview and definitely for Broll to make a point concerning the coronavirus. It's important to wear a mask that you can be heard through. This is when a mask with your company's logo may be appropriate, but usually it is best to wear one that is plain.
