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With video becoming an essential part of any marketing plan, it's only a matter of time before someone pushes you in front of a camera. Besides the obvious nerves that come with being recorded, you'll likely have anxiety about what to wear.
However, wardrobe selection is essential to production planning. Before a Plum Productions shoot, I always email clients a list of suggestions for clothing as some items look better on camera than others. Plus, certain outfits actually pose technical challenges. Below, are some universal guidelines to follow any time you're the star of a video production.
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Choose warming colors.
Colors like teal, cobalt, purple and coral pop on screen. For women, wearing a top in one of these bright shades will really warm up your face. For men, neckties are your best opportunity to deliver a punch of color.
Avoid white, bright red and all-black outfits.
All three of these colors pose technical problems.
For instance, before shooting, your videographer will adjusts the camera exposure for your face, so if you're wearing a bright white top, that top will glow. (A small amount of white is okay peeking out from under a jacket and tie, but your best bet is to opt for a light blue.)
Black poses the same problem. When the camera exposure is correct on your face, black looks too dark or "crushed." The definition of your garment will be lost, so you'll look shapeless.
And bright red sometimes "bleeds" on camera, giving off a slight, hazy halo.
Stick to solids.
Big patterns are too distracting. Remember, the focus should be on you, not your outfit. Alternately, small, tight patterns (including even the subtlest plaid pattern in a suit jacket) can "buzz" on camera. On a necktie, opt for a medium-sized pattern, like stripes.
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Stay classic.
Your company is investing a fair amount of money in this video project and will likely use it for years. So choose an outfit that will stand the test of time. As tempted as you may be to rock those very-now culottes you're so excited about, avoid any trends that will make the video look dated.
Keep jewelry simple.
Dangly jewelry isn't just visually distracting; it's loud. Microphones will pick up your bangle bracelets or jangly earrings. Stick to studs and forgo the bracelets.
Don't make a big change before the shoot.
I once arrived to a shoot and my client was furious; the night before one of his staff members had gotten a funky haircut and colored it a shade of red not naturally found on the human head.
If you're "casting" certain team members to be in your company's video, make sure they understand that their style and appearance is one of the reasons they were selected and major makeovers before the shoot are unnecessary.
As a rule of thumb always bring two or three wardrobe options to any shoot and let your producer help you make a final selection. While you may be the star, always remember that your outfit plays a supporting role.
Related: How to Create a Successful DIY Video on a Budget
FAQs
It's often best to wear something tried and true. Basically, something you know looks pretty good, but more importantly, something that you won't think much about once you're wearing it. Of course, you don't want to disregard this altogether—like, no gym shorts—you just don't want to get all up in your head about it.
How to dress for being on camera? ›
Whenever possible, aim to wear solid colors. We want you to pop on screen, but not distract. Furthermore, it's important to choose colors that flatter you. If you don't know, or don't really care, some universally safe colors include navy, burgundy, or muted tones.
What colors look best on camera? ›
Solid and rich colours tend to look best on camera, helping you stand out on screen. Avoid bright white clothing as it can overpower the screen. Instead, opt for off-white shades like light beige or light grey. Consider colours that complement your skin tone and make you feel comfortable.
What looks good on camera? ›
Solid colors are best: Large, bright patterns and prints are distracting and can draw attention away from your message. Avoid them. Muted or subdued patterns are generally okay.
What colors to avoid on stage? ›
Wear something that will stand out from the background. Block colours are best and avoid blurring patterns like houndstooth and small patterns. Universal colours such as blues, greens and purples in your tone work well on stage or screen and it's best to avoid neutrals as they can look a bit dull.
What color makes you look thinner on camera? ›
Black never fails to make you look slim and elegant. Darker shades of colors like blue, purple and brown can also help to hide flaws and create a slimming illusion. On the other hand, lighter colors, like white and khaki, can add pounds and give the illusion of a larger frame.
What is the most photogenic color? ›
Some great colors to wear for photos are oranges, reds, golds, magenta, and turquoise. Most of these are earth-like tones.
What color is the most pleasing to look at? ›
Blue and green are the colors that are most pleasing to the eye. These calming shades allow the eye to rest and are not overstimulating (unless used in neon hues), pleasing the eye and instantly relaxing our bodies and minds.
Is black a good color to wear on camera? ›
Be careful with black
If you really want to wear a dark color on camera, navy is generally a safer choice than black. But be warned: Dark clothes can have an aging effect on subjects, because they cast shadows on skin. Pro tip: Be sure to avoid wearing shirts that have visible logos, brand names, or loud text.
What colors not to wear in photos? ›
I often tell clients, “Light, bright clothing helps make light, bright images” and that's because it's SO true. The colors we wear make a huge impact on what the final images look like. For this reason, I ask clients to please avoid black and cherry red as they tend to overwhelm our images.
Unflattering or harsh lighting can create shadows, emphasising imperfections and making us appear less attractive than we would under natural or softer lighting. Photographers often use techniques such as diffused lighting, reflectors, and flashes to minimise shadows and create more flattering images.
What is the outfit color rule? ›
Understanding the 3-Color Rule
At its core, the 3-color rule advocates for avoiding the combination of more than three colors in a single outfit.
How to look hot on stage? ›
8 Ways to Look Amazing On Stage
- Add some sparkle. ...
- Don't wear black. ...
- Highlight your cheekbones. ...
- Wear extra make-up. ...
- Wear a costume not just an outfit. ...
- Wear pantyhose without any sheen. ...
- Don't go too heavy on the black eyeliner. ...
- Think about your brand.
DO NOT Wear Stripes And Patterns. Stripes and patterns can create visual chaos on-camera, so it's best to steer clear. Stick to solids to maintain a clean and professional appearance that won't leave your audience feeling dizzy.
Are you supposed to look directly at the camera? ›
It all depends on the photographer's intent. If they want a photo where the subject makes eye contact with the person viewing the photo, then the subject must look directly into the camera.
Should you look directly at the camera? ›
Try looking about 6-12 inches away from your camera. This will allow your audience to still see both of your eyes and most of your face. Whereas if you go side on it may look a bit artier but it is harder for the viewer to form a connection with you as they can't see both of your eyes.
