(Recorded from a Facebook Live)
Whether we like it or not we cannot get away from video. There are opportunities to live stream on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube. You may be leading a webinar, on a Skype call for a job interview or a videoconference with your team in different locations. You may be invited to give a media interview on TV. There are tons of opportunities out there to be on video. When you show up on video you want to endure you are showing up in the best possible way. You may feel self conscious when watching yourself on video. It is very easy to be critical of your every move. A friend of mine once told me to use video as a feedback tool.
Here are 9 tips to take into consideration when you will be appearing on video.
1. Do your research
Find out as much as you can about the surroundings of the studio or location shoot, especially the background color of the set. You don’t want your clothing to blend in and make you invisible. Are there any colours you should avoid?
2. Get ready to be on video
If you are appearing on TV, giving a presentation in front of a large audience or shooting your own videos you will need to be miked, so make sure that a lapel mic can be easily attached to your clothing. Shirt, dress, sweater and blazer collars work well. Stay away from turtlenecks, collarless shirts and fragile knits that can be damaged by a microphone clip.
3. Colour matters
When you look at your wardrobe and try to decide what to wear, view the article from the standpoint of how vibrant its colour or pattern is. Avoid fabric patterns that might shimmer or vibrate on TV cameras, such as stripes, polka-dots, checked or multi-coloured fabrics. Dark colours absorb the light and make you look smaller. Light colours reflect the light and make you look larger.
4. Being camera-ready
When you find the perfect outfit, photograph yourself from top to bottom in a full-length mirror. Look at yourself from the sides, front, and back. Make sure it is your best choice. Good fit is essential, so better to be a little roomy than too tight.
Wear long sleeves over bare arms attract the eye away from the face, long sleeves, will slenderize your silhouette and look more professional.
Your neckline should match your face. You can lengthen your face with a V neckline or use a scarf to soften the effect.
5. Wear accessories
An accessory can make the smallest difference, and enhance your appearance on-screen. The basic rule for television and video is that anything that sparkles or shines too much, dangles in the light, or rattles and makes noise will distract attention from your face and what you are saying.
Better jewellery choices are: Pearls, even coloured ones. Sixteen-inch single strands have serious finishing power; layer lengths for a funkier approach. Beads in subdued, rich colours. If you like bold bead necklaces, consider matching the colour of your top to the necklace.
6. For men
Stay away from bold pattern suits, plaids, checks, stripes or garish colours. When sitting, unbutton the bottom of your suit jacket for a smoother look in your shoulder.
Wear plain shirts vs one with a logo, as they may have a tendency to be boxy on-camera, and get lost in close-range shots. A grey shirt is a more flattering neutral colour than white; it is soft and works well with camera lights. White shirts dominate on-camera.
7. While on video
Stay still and avoid gesturing when conducting business or presenting via a webcast, webcam or videoconference.
8. Be prepared for emergencies
Assemble a kit for emergency situations. Include spot remover, static guard, a lint brush, safety pins, dress shields, hair products hairpins, an extra pair of hose and extra makeup.
9. Last but not least, be yourself and have fun.
You now have some tips on putting your best foot forward on video. If you would like to find out about dressing for your particular body type and fit. Download a free chapter from my book Stop Buying Clothes You Don’t Wear.