Video Shoot Preparation Tips

Video Prep 101 – Key Things You Should Know

Preparation -

1. Wardrobe: The most frequently asked question is “What to Wear”?  Dress as you would when meeting with a client because the more relaxed and natural you are, the better you will appear on camera and people viewing your video will know what to expect at their first meeting. We recommend solid colors such as blue, as they look best on video. It is also recommended you bring a change of clothes to appear more casual in some of the shots.

2. What Not to Wear:  Experience has taught us that it is not a good idea to wear narrow stripes, busy patterns or layer the same color because the camera does not pick them up well.  We encourage you to dress in a manner that allows the viewers to focus on what you are saying, not what you are wearing. 

   
   Some typical distractions to avoid:
   1. Bold jewelry
   2. Wild animal prints
   
   Glasses can shimmer and give off light kicks, which make it difficult to light around. However, if you don't have contacts and prefer to wear your glasses then go ahead and wear them, we'll work around it.

3. Makeup: Remember, the lights are hot and will make you perspire - men just need a little powder. Women should wear their normal amount of makeup and not over do it.

   
   Tip: Keep a handkerchief close by for any quick dabs that are needed during the video shoot.

During -

1. Relax: Speak and move naturally. Being too formal may put too much emotional distance between you and the audience. So - just be yourself and don't rush through your shoot.  The best video’s generally use more than one take.

2. Hands: People like to see hands, but not when they are overly animated. Keep them visibly in front of you to help you express your thoughts as you make your points.

3. Posture: Try to sit up straight and lean forward a bit toward the Interviewer. This gives you the appearance of being engaged in the conversation. Try to avoid reclining deeply in your seat. If possible, cross your feet at the ankles or plant your feet squarely on the ground.
   
   Tip: Try to avoid sitting in a swivel chair as you may "exercise the swivel", which shows poorly on camera. When wearing a suit jacket; sit on the "tail" of your coat. This will pull the jacket flat on your shoulders and avoid any collar rolls.

4. Don't Over-Prep: We do not recommend memorizing a script unless you are a vigorous and frequent speech giver. Do memorize your key messages and let us help you get the information across during the interview process. We are more than willing to work with you to get the quotes we need to make a great video.

5. Keep it Short: Short answers are optimal - no more than a few sentences long. Stick to your key messages and talking points - we'll help you get them across in your video.

6. Drink Lots of Water: Make sure you stay hydrated and have bottled water available during your video shoot - the lights are hot and you may not have a chance to get up in between takes.

7. Look at the Interviewer: Don't look directly at the camera lens. You will be answering questions asked to you by an interviewer seated next to the camera. Interact and converse with the interviewer as if there isn't a camera in the room. Don't look down or away from the interviewer, always look them directly in the eye and give your response with confidence and feeling.

8. Have Fun: Try to relax & enjoy the process.  We are here to help make this a productive and positive experience for you. Your preparation and willingness to listen to our advice is key to your video success!

After -

1. Results:  Tell your friends about your experience.