It’s been more than a year since Covid and we should certainly know how to Zoom by now, but if you’re at the beginning of your publicity journey and you’re due to do a live video interview virtually with the CNBCs or Cheddars of the world, what do you have to remember?
Here are expert tips from our Co-Founder and Managing Partner (and longtime TV producer) Dorian Langlais.
- Frame your camera shot so that the bottom of the frame should hit just below your chest with a small amount of space above your head.
- Make sure your background is neutral, no distractions (keep kids, cats and partially clothed visitors out of frame)
- Avoid sitting near a window or other light source which could create glare or shadows
- Wear something solid, preferably light blue
- If you wear glasses, avoid reflective lenses or light responsive lenses
- Make sure your camera is at eye level
- Look directly into the lens
- If needed, elevate your camera by placing the device on books, a box or other stable object
- Make frequent natural eye contact as if engaged in in-person conversation
- Gesture occasionally, but make sure you’re back far enough that the interviewer/audience can see your hands
- Close any computer programs that bing, ring, or sing (e.g. Slack) which will be audible
- And, says Dorian, don’t be so flustered or entranced that you forget all your other media training lessons!
Reach out to us if you need a refresher!