Capture Video – What Not To Wear

What Not To Wear

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.

Don’t wear:
Big noisy jewelry. In this case, it isn’t about the camera as much as the microphone. If you are wearing a microphone clipped to your lapel, a large necklace will make sounds that will be recorded, particularly if you’re inclined to touch it. Also consider any watches or bracelets. If you are seated at a table or desk, will they bang and make noise as you move your hands?
Instead:
Bigger is often better for the camera if noise isn’t a factor. Very small pendants can be lost and almost appear as a visual imperfection rather than a decorative piece.

Don’t wear:
Clothes that don’t suit your message. If you are a corporate lawyer, then you probably do want to come across as a well polished shark. On the other hand, if you are a personal trainer, a suit might confuse your audience.
Instead:
Wear clothes that make you comfortable and suit the expectations of your audience. Dress for your video shoot the way you would for an important networking event.

A few last things:

Hair: Long hair can catch on the microphone, making noise or causing it to pull loose. It can also hide your face. If you have long hair, plan to wear it back and out of your face for your video shoot.

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