Best Practices for On-Camera Wardrobe

From ksbmedia Media on September 1st, 2015

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Out of all the different elements that go into a production, choosing what to wear may seem like a easy task. While it is pretty simple, there are some key rules for when it comes to choosing the best wardrobe for when you are in front of the camera. Choosing the right wardrobe ensures you look good on camera and you’re comfortable.

I’ll start with what not to wear, because believe it or not, there are a few very stringent rules on what you shouldn’t wear on-camera. The lights in the studio are very powerful and tend to get a little warmer, so the studio may be a little warmer by the time we begin filming. We suggest avoiding heavy or dense fabrics like wool, fleece, or cashmere; and sticking to lightweight fabrics like cotton, knits, and polyester blends. Additionally, because of the lights, we ask you to not wear white, neon, or metallic fabrics.

It is also very important to avoid certain patterns. Tightly-knit houndstooth, herringbone, pinstripe, or plaid patterns should not be worn in order to avoid the on-camera shimmer that you may have seen before. This is called a “moire” effect.

The best criteria to follow in choosing what to wear is solid, bold colors, patterns wider than your thumb, and layering with a dress shirt or blouse and jacket.

By avoiding busy, bright, and heavy fabrics, you’ll be on track to looking great on-camera; and just as important as looking great, is sounding great. Wearing the right clothes for your microphone will play a major role in how you sound.

When you pick your wardrobe for the shoot, you have to choose clothes that allow proper microphone placement; this is dependent on the available fabric edges where we can clip the microphone. Jackets or blazers, ties, and button-down shirts work the best.

Along with the microphone clip, you’ll be fitted with a transmitter pack.This pack is connected to the mic with about three and a half foot cable. It comes can be attached to a belt, waistband, or even put in your pocket.

If you choose to wear a dress or a skirt, make sure that it has pockets; or bring an extra pair of pants or shorts with pockets to hold your microphone transmitter.

We encourage solid bold colors- they’re eye-grabbing and draw the attention to your face. Other than that, the choice is yours! Feel free to express your own personal style and flair.

You’re welcome to bring multiple outfits for your shoot. Just let us know so we can plan accordingly.
If you have any questions about whether your wardrobe is appropriate or have any other questions, feel free to contact the Kelley Learning Media team at ksbmedia@indiana.edu, or stop by our office in Hodge Hall one thirty one. Until then, thanks for watching, and we’ll see you in the studio!

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