Lights, Camera, Action.... A check list for appearance on Camera!

Whether dealing with television or camera, your appearance can mark your value. For a groomed and well styled image, here are some Don'ts and Do's which should be kept in mind.

Clothing and Accessories

Don’ts

• Avoid small high contrast patterns or vertical lines, like herringbone, bold checks, plaids, close stripes. These patterns reflect illusion to the viewer.
• Do not wear white shirt as it reflects too much light.
• At times cameras are placed at low levels. Avoid short skirts or clothing which can be revealing.
• Do not wear body hugging or too fitted clothes, which are uncomfortable on standing or sitting.
• Do not wear distracting trims like large bow, numerous ruffles, shiny or light reflecting laces.
• Do not keep pen or eyeglasses in pockets and these can reflect light on camera.
• Avoid shiny fabrics as they can pick up the chrome key lighting making post production a nightmare.
• Avoid shiny, reflective jewelry; it reflects light and can damage cameras or create a flaring effect.
• Avoid dangling earrings which can distract viewers.


Do’s
• Wear solid colors with a colorful scarf or tie.
• Choose an outfit that looks good when standing and comfortable when sitting. Slacks, knee length or longer skirts are recommended over short skirts.
• Choose solid colored accessories or ones with simple patterns that don't appear too busy.
• Keep jewelry simple so it does not make noise when you move your head or body.
• Wear full sleeves shirts to project a more formal look.
• Wear a blue, gray, pink, or beige dress shirt if you are going to wear a dress shirt.
• Bring clothes made of natural fabrics that tend to breathe easily under the warm studio lights.
• Wear comfortable shoes.

Clothing Color

A camera doesn’t see light the way your eye does. Too much bright to dark contrast and something’s got to give. So either the bright or dark color loses detail.
Don’ts
• Avoid pure white and black clothing, as they make skin tones appear harsh.
• Bright reds and oranges sometimes "bleed" or smear on television; avoid them.


Do’s
• Bring solid colored clothes. Best bets are navy blues, grays, purples, dark creams, browns, and neutral colored suits.
• Choose a subtle color like light blue or beige.
• Mild or pastel colors and subtle patterns work best under television lights.

Make-up Tips

• For Women - foundation and lipstick help to keep you from looking tired or washed out.
• Don't wear dark, heavy makeup colors; television tends to create its own natural shadows.
• Style your hair off your face to avoid shadows.
• For Men - Shave before appearing if you have "5 o'clock shadow" (stubble beard) or use a powder close to your skin color to lessen the appearance of your beard.
• A light powdering on balding heads can prevent shiny spots as well.

P.S. Images used are not belonging to School of Styling