Video Production Agencies: Dressing Do’s and Don’ts
Imagine this: you have been working on a big corporate video for your company, and everything is set—scripts are ready, lights are positioned, cameras are rolling. But then, a team member shows up in a bright green shirt for a green screen shoot. Or maybe someone thinks it is a good idea to wear that free company t-shirt they picked up at a trade show last year, proudly emblazoned with another brand’s logo, to feature in your company’s marketing video. Suddenly, what was supposed to be a professional production is filled with wardrobe mishaps that can derail your vision. Wardrobe choices for video production are not about vanity—they are about what is being represented on screen and the message your visual choices send to the audience. The right clothes can convey professionalism, personality, and alignment with your brand, while the wrong ones can cause confusion, distraction, or even a lack of clarity. While it is not about judging a book by its cover, we sure consider it before deciding which book to buy. Appearances matter, especially when your brand’s identity is at stake on film. In this article, we will walk you through the essential do’s and don’ts of dressing for various types of video shoots. Whether you are preparing for a testimonial, a corporate shoot, or even a green screen video, the clothes you choose can make or break the final product. Along the way, we will also highlight how video production agencies can help you navigate wardrobe choices to ensure you look your best on camera. With their experience and insight, they can guide you to avoid costly wardrobe errors and elevate the professionalism of your video content.
General Guidelines for On-Camera Attire
First things first, comfort and fit matter. The last thing anyone needs while filming is to feel uncomfortable in their clothes, especially when under hot lights or being filmed for hours at a time. Well-fitted clothing not only makes you feel more at ease, but it also ensures that you look put-together. Think of it like your personal brand—well-groomed, professional attire can make all the difference.
Choosing the right fabric is also important. Clothing made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics helps keep things looking fresh throughout the shoot, so there is no need to worry about unsightly creases showing up in your video. When in doubt, choose fabrics that move well with your body and avoid those that bunch up or shift positions as you speak or move.
Many video production agencies will advise you to choose clothing that fits both your body and the purpose of the shoot. They have plenty of experience in guiding clients on what will work best on camera. Their advice can save you from the potential wardrobe disasters that come with poor outfit choices.
The Do’s of Dressing for Video Shoots
Solid Colours
One of the easiest ways to ensure you look great on camera is to go for solid colours.Solid colors create a clean and sharp appearance while being less distracting to the viewer. Patterns, especially busy ones, can make the focus shift away from the person speaking. Stick to colours that complement your skin tone and feel good in front of the camera.
Rich jewel tones like emerald, navy, and burgundy work well on most people and can help you stand out in the video without being too flashy. If you are not sure which colour looks best, simply ask a friend or colleague—they will likely give you honest feedback. It is best to avoid overly bright or neon shades, as they can cause weird lighting reflections or distortions in post-production.
A tip many video production agencies will offer is to avoid colours that clash with your environment or set. It is always smart to check with the production team to get insight into the final set design. They will ensure your wardrobe does not compete with the background, a mistake often made by those who are unfamiliar with how certain colours react on camera.
Subtle Patterns
If you must wear patterns, keep them subtle. Small checks, stripes, or dots can add texture to an outfit without distracting from the overall message of the video. Avoid patterns that are too bold or large, as these may cause visual distractions or create strange effects on camera. The goal is for the clothing to complement your persona, not overshadow it.
Professional video production agencies know exactly how various patterns can affect the final product. They have seen everything from distracting plaid to clashing stripes that cause problems during filming. Trusting their expertise in these details will ensure your wardrobe aligns perfectly with the purpose of the video.
Professional Accessories
While accessories can add personality, it is important to keep them minimal and professional. A simple necklace or watch is often all that is needed to complete an outfit. Be careful with reflective jewelry or anything that could create unnecessary noise—think jangly bracelets or large metallic earrings. Accessories should enhance your look, not distract from it.
Even if you think your accessories are perfect, experienced video production agencies can offer advice on how to avoid wardrobe malfunctions. Reflective pieces can cause unwanted glares, and over-the-top jewelry can take the attention away from the message you are trying to convey in the video.
Grooming Matters
Your hair, makeup, and general grooming also play a large part in how you appear on camera. Well-kept hair is a must, and if you wear makeup, keep it natural—too much makeup can often be noticeable under studio lighting. For men, a clean shave or neatly trimmed facial hair will keep you looking polished, while for women, simple and clean makeup that enhances features is generally the best choice.
The Don’ts of Dressing for Video Shoots
Bright Whites and Blacks
It is a classic video mistake to wear bright white or jet black clothing. White can often create lighting issues, reflecting too much light and making it difficult to capture fine details. Black, while slimming, can also cause you to lose detail in the shadows, leaving you looking flat or washed out. Opt for softer shades like charcoal, navy, or pastel tones, which provide enough contrast without being overwhelming.
The advice of seasoned video production agencies will often guide you away from these classic missteps. They have seen firsthand how certain colours can disrupt the lighting setup, and their recommendations are grounded in years of experience working with lighting and cameras.
Steer Clear of Green (For Green Screens)
This one may be obvious, but it still needs to be mentioned: Avoid wearing green if you are shooting against a green screen. The last thing you want is to blend in with the background and become a floating head or torso. While this applies specifically to green screen shoots, the principle can be applied to any shoot where the background may affect how your clothes look on camera. When in doubt, consult with the video production agency you are working with to confirm the background setup.
Many video production agencies have a great deal of experience with green screen technology, and they know that even a hint of green in your clothing can result in unfortunate and funny consequences. Their tips can ensure that you look your best, no matter the backdrop.
Distracting Patterns
As mentioned earlier, patterns can be tricky when it comes to video. Bold stripes, plaids, and large graphic prints are likely to interfere with the video quality and cause distortion or “moiré” effects. These patterns can make your outfit seem like it is moving even when you are standing still, which distracts the viewer. Stick to simple textures or solid colours to keep things visually stable.
Reflective Materials
Avoid clothing with shiny or reflective materials, like sequins or metallic fabrics. These fabrics can catch the lights in the studio, causing glare that distracts from your face or the overall video. Similarly, shiny jewelry or accessories can create unwanted reflections. Stick with matte or non-reflective materials to keep everything looking smooth and even.
Noisy Clothing
While it might seem like a small issue, noisy clothing can become a significant problem during video production. Fabrics that rustle, crinkle, or jingle can interfere with the audio recording. If your outfit makes noise when you move, it could distort the sound or become a distraction. Always test your outfit by moving around a bit before the shoot to ensure it does not make any unwanted sounds.
Dressing for Specific Video Types
Not all video types are created equal, and the clothes you wear will vary depending on the kind of production. Below are a few things to consider for specific video types.
Testimonial Videos
When shooting testimonial videos, the goal is to present authenticity. This means wearing clothing that reflects your personality while still appearing professional. A casual business outfit works well, as it does not feel too stiff or formal. Choose clothing that complements the environment, whether it is a formal office or a more casual, relaxed setting.
Training Videos
For training videos, comfort is key. You may need to move or demonstrate something, so ensure your clothing allows for that. Avoid anything too tight or overly loose, as it could restrict movement or appear unprofessional on camera. Simple, clean lines are the best choice.
Green Screen Videos
If you are shooting against a green screen, it is essential to avoid green clothing. Wearing solid colours that contrast well with the background ensures that you stand out. Additionally, keep fabrics matte to avoid any unwanted glare or shadows caused by studio lights.
Corporate and Marketing Videos
For corporate videos, your attire should align with the company’s branding. Corporate videos often require a professional appearance, so think business casual or business formal depending on the company culture. Marketing videos, on the other hand, may allow for more creativity in your outfit, as long as it aligns with the brand’s identity.
Additional Tips
- Preparation: Try on your outfit before the shoot and ensure that it fits properly. Wrinkle-free clothing can make a big difference, so be sure to iron or steam your outfit ahead of time.
- Backup Options: Bring multiple outfit choices to the shoot. Sometimes, things do not look as expected on camera, and it is best to have a backup.
- Emergency Kit: Always have a small emergency kit with essentials like a lint roller, safety pins, and a stain remover pen. You never know when a little mishap might happen.
Conclusion
Dressing for a video shoot is about more than just looking good—it is about presenting yourself in a way that complements the video’s message and helps the audience focus on what matters. With these simple tips, you can avoid the pitfalls of poorly chosen outfits and feel confident during your shoot. Remember to always keep comfort, fit, and the technical aspects of the shoot in mind. After all, looking great on camera begins with the right wardrobe choices. For those working with video production agencies, it is always a good idea to consult with them ahead of time to ensure your outfit aligns with the video’s vision. Their experience and professional insights can ensure you avoid wardrobe blunders and help make the shoot a success. In the end, the clothes you wear for your video shoot can make all the difference between looking just okay and truly standing out in front of the camera.
Got your wardrobe sorted? Or do you still need a little style intervention? Either way, Sound Idea Digital has your back. We’re experts in helping you look great on camera, with all the right outfit choices in mind. Contact us today, and we’ll help make sure your next shoot goes off without a hitch—clothes, hair, and all!
We are a full-service Web Development and Content Production Agency in Gauteng specialising in Video Production, Animation, eLearning Content Development, Learning Management Systems, and Content Production.
Contact us for a quote. | enquiries@soundidea.co.za | https://www.soundideavideoproduction.co.za| +27 82 491 5824 |