What am I going to wear?

Choosing a camera-ready wardrobe


One of the most frequent questions we’re asked when someone is going to be on camera is “What should I wear?”.  The quickest answer is “something you’re comfortable in”, but we do have a few guidelines that should help you look your best.

Please DO wear:  solid colors, layers, minimal patterns (if any), and simple silhouettes in a modern, work-appropriate casual, seasonless style.  If you’ll be in a lot of footage, it’s a good idea to pack another shirt or layer so that you can change up your look.  The most important thing is for your outfit to fit well and be wrinkle-free!

Some examples:


Please DO NOT wear:

A woman wearing a white button-down shirt smiles in front of a white background.

White (unless it’s required PPE like a lab coat):

You may blend in with the background or reflect other colors around you.

Plaids, checks, or stripes:  they can create odd optical effects with our cameras under certain circumstances.

Graphics or brand logos (other than your company’s):

A brand logo could imply that your company endorses that brand or product, and other types of graphics could look messy or even be controversial.

Busy or bold prints:  they can be distracting.

Green:  the same color as a green screen (a background used when filming someone that allows us to add a separate background in post-production).  It can open the door to a lot of issues, whether we’re using a green screen for your project or not.

(if you want a laugh- and to see some examples of what we’re talking about- google “green screen Queen Elizabeth” and/or “green screen floating head”)


A few other notes:  If you need to tie your hair back for the lab or the manufacturing floor (and you don’t wear a cap or hair net), please do so neatly.  If you wear makeup, just apply it the way you usually would for a day at work.  We generally have blotting paper and powder available to control shine if we need to.  Your usual jewelry is fine and don’t worry about covering tattoos unless your organization requires it.

And that’s it!  Within these guidelines (and your organization’s dress code, if there is one), please express your own personal workplace style.  We want you to look and feel like yourself– you’re part of your organization’s personality and that should come through!

Whatever outfit or outfits you choose, know that DCA is here to support you and help you look and feel your best throughout the filming day.  For more information about what to expect when you’ll be on camera, click here.

Previous
Previous

So, you’re going to be on camera…

Next
Next

Finding your (video) type, part 2