Stay behind the camera!
In a recent client interview on-location with FOX , I had an interesting conversation with a camera man. I was shocked to learn many PR people he deals with on a regular basis don’t know about rule number 77 of PR: stay behind the camera!
So, attention PR people, new or old, when a client is going to be on-camera for an interview and you are on-location with them, stay behind the camera! Why? Here are three reasons:
- If you merely stand to the side of the frame your body may cast unwanted shadows from angles you wouldn’t expect. If you stay behind the camera (and camera man) those shadows aren’t an issue, because the camera man will not shoot from an angle where his / her shadow will be seen. So, you’re safe from causing a problem.
- It makes broadcast journalists, producers and camera men appreciate you, because they don’t have to give you proper instructions for on-camera interviews (in front of your client!), and they don’t have to retake after you remove your shadow.
- On a multi-camera shoot, you might find yourself in the segment, staring at your client like an entranced stalker. Even worse: at some point during the interview, you might realize you’re in the shot and suddenly look like a deer in headlights trying to escape.
Also, another fun-fact to remember: just as if you were at a live performance, flash photography is prohibited during on-camera interviews. (Don’t worry…the photo for this blog did not involve a flash, was taken well before the interview started and I asked permission before I snapped.)
Any questions?
Thx for this Kelly!
Amen. A lot of dumb pr people.
Ironic advice coming from an agency with one of the most televised ceo’s in the industry.
I don’t think she meant him Sarah. Petty. And I’m not so sure about calling him the “most televised ceo” in our industry. He’s in good company.
Good advice. We all don’t get to work with tv crews everyday. Thanks.
I was media trained a decade ago by Eric and while these are wonderful beginner tips, it’s a lot more complex or a lot easier (that’s what he used to say) than you may think.
While I do believe your point contradicts itself Emily, Mr. Yaverbaum has been in front of a camera for decades. I’m sure that does make it easy for him. I hope that’s not what he “teaches” people now. It’s not easy at all and these points are worth noting if you want to ever work with tv station twice.
That’s a tv camera?
Duh. Thanks for that contribution James.