Have you ever watched a video and been completely distracted by the appearance of the actors? Or wondered why one person seems to be wavering when everyone else looks fine? That’s because the camera can’t balance things as well as our eyes. Here are some suggestions for dressing in ways to work with the camera, instead of against it.
Don’t wear:
High contrast outfits. Black and white is the most obvious, but also not dark blue and white or anything similar. The camera just doesn’t handle the extreme range very well and it can make the finished product look odd. Really fine lines and patterns also don’t pick up well.
Instead:
Choose colors and use color blocking, meaning one solid on the top and a solid on the bottom. Or choose big florals, thick stripes, or even plaid.
Don’t wear:
A short skirt if you’re going to be seated for your interview. A chair compresses your body and can make you look wider. Bare legs enhance that effect and contrasted with the color of a skirt can make you look blocky.
Instead:
Wear slacks if you’re going to be seated. Or choose a longer skirt that will cover your legs. If you must be seated, a high stool can give you a less squat look, or you can ask the camera person to frame out your legs, if that’s possible.
This video Capture Video produced for the ICF has some great clothing examples. The subjects are also seated, but framed for upper body only. (more…)
