So, you’re going to be in a corporate video. We’re looking forward to having you on set, but before we do, you need to choose what to wear. That may sound simple enough, but there’s a lot of clothing you should avoid when in front of the camera.
Before filming day, review our checklist of dos and don’ts along with tricks of the trade for arriving prepared.
Ask About the Look
Go For Plain
Avoid Black and White
Avoid Patterns
No Logos
Avoid Loud Jewelry
Clean Clothes in Good Condition
Bring Options
Transport With Care
Arrive Camera-Ready
Following these guidelines will contribute to a smooth day on set while keeping both film and editing crews happy.
1. Ask About the Look
Before you choose your wardrobe, find out what the look of the video will be. Is the feel of the video modern, casual, professional? If you’re playing a character other than yourself, should that character portray a specific style?
Whenever possible, ask in advance to understand what’s expected of your look for the video.
2. Go For Plain
You’re going to be on film, so it may be tempting to pick clothing that will help you stand out. Leave that to the camera crew. On a set, plain, solid colours are best. You want the viewers to focus on what you’re doing, saying, and how the story unfolds, not the flashy design or clever joke on your shirt.
3. Avoid Black and White
Avoid too much black and too much white. It can make you disappear! If the camera exposure on your face is correct, your black clothing will look too dark, causing your body to lose its shape and definition.
Wearing black can also age you. It makes you look more tired by accentuating any dark circles under your eyes or by casting shadows on your skin. On the contrary, wearing white will brighten your face, making it appear to shine or glow on film, which can overwhelm the viewer.
Opt for cream, light blue, or beige instead of white and brown, grey, or navy instead of black.
4. Avoid Patterns
Avoid thin lines, stripes, and any small, intricate patterns.
They can cause a moiré pattern (wavy lines) with digital photography or video, creating an optical illusion. Patterns are also distracting, which can pull focus away from you as well as the purpose of the video.
5. No Logos
Please don’t wear clothing with any logos, jokes, or catchphrases. If the brand is trademarked, the owner may demand a licensing fee or sue the makers of the video.
You may have noticed logos on products are often blurred out or removed in many movies and television shows. Leave the logo tees at home to avoid offering free advertising to brands who would normally pay, or to prevent the risk of a trademark owner being offended by the unapproved use of their trademark.
6. Avoid Loud Jewelry
Avoid jingly jewelry that could cause extra noise on set. Microphones are sensitive to sound and will pick up even the slightest extra noise. Loud jewelry can also cause unwanted noise offset if you move when the camera is rolling.
Test your jewelry and accessories at home to see if they make noise as you move. If you’re unsure, it’s best to bring a few different options on filming day.
7. Clean Clothes in Good Condition
Make sure your clothing is clean and in good condition. If you are wearing business attire, ensure it is neatly pressed. Double check the clothing you bring for holes, stains, and pills. Pills are the small bumps that appear on fabric over time due to wear and washing.
What might not be noticed from a distance may be picked up by a high definition camera or close up.
8. Bring Options
Bring several different options for filming day. And don’t forget any accessories you might need including shoes, belts, jewelry, or ties.
Having a few options on hand will help in a ‘rip or spill’ emergency. It also gives our crew more options to choose from when setting up the perfect scene. We wouldn’t want you to end up wearing the same colour or outfit as your co-stars.
9. Transport With Care
To ensure your clothing remains in good condition, transport it with care. Use hangers and clothing bags to avoid adding any unnecessary folds. Make sure all of your clothing is protected as you make your way to the filming location. There’s always an accident waiting to happen. Whether that’s rain, a puddle, coffee, or yourself.
10. Arrive Camera-Ready
Come with your makeup and hair done. This will save time on the shooting day. And since you have (fingers crossed) already asked what the look of the video will be, you will have all the information you need to prepare your wardrobe, hair, and makeup before you arrive.
Thank you for taking the time to consider your film day wardrobe. The entire Memory Tree team greatly appreciates it, and we look forward to seeing you on set. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone or email.
