
Does anyone else have the same nightmare of not looking the part of, or doing something wrong while on camera? As the world has become more digital and there are always possibilities of a photo being snapped, especially at trade shows, one must be prepared. The following are four tips to remain to look professional while being on camera.
1. Solid Colors
Stick with a solid-colored shirt with minimal to no prints. Your main focus should be your face. If you are wearing a distracting shirt, the focus moves to your shirt rather than your stunning smile. With that being said, steer clear of white or black shirts as well, avoiding the possibility of light reflecting off your shirt and blinding the other participants. Black may seem like a better choice, but it doesn’t give you any dimension and creates a void. Use earth tones, muted blues, and grays, colors that will melt into any background and make what is really important, you, pop.
2. Lighting
Make sure the light is in front of you rather than behind. If the light is behind you it will cast shadows on your face and make it difficult to focus. Position a lamp in front of you to shine consistent light on your face or sit in front of a window. The natural light will be soft on your face and won’t cast any shadows. Either way, don’t forget that the light needs to be in front of you!
3. Eye Level Camera
No one wants to see up your nose! Make sure your camera is eye level and not pointing up at you. This way you can directly look into the camera and at your peers. If you cannot achieve eye level just by moving your computer screen or camera, try stacking books underneath. This is an old-school approach that will never fail you.
4. Simple background
When it comes to in-person photography, the environment can be your best friend or totally mess up the final product. You’ll want to steer clear of cluttered or distracting backgrounds that might steal the spotlight from your subject or focus. Instead, opt for a clean and professional space that keeps things simple and sweet. This way all viewers can focus on the real spotlight (you!) rather than try to figure out what is going on around you.
It’s important to be prepared for any on-camera event, whether it is an interview, the trade show floor, or even just a team meeting. These four tips will help you look professional and be prepared. Remember, you should be the focus of the matter—not what is behind you or around you—and for you to look the part no matter what your job position maybe.
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