Ok. Something I can actually help with here, having a little
experience - designing costumes for network television for @8 years
in my dim past.
So, Lee, pretty much just keep it simple. You’re a big guy, and,
from your description (head, Fu Manchu, etc.), I’d say you’ll be all
over the visual impact issue just by showing up. The lights are hot,
both physically and visually, yes. The studios are generally kept at
a temperature cold enough to keep meat , but sitting under those
lights can feel toasty if you’re there for any length of time. Also,
due to those lights, stay away from white, near white, most bright
colours, especially reds, as they tend to “bloom” (flair) in video.
Also - NO patterns. Really. Just don’t mess with them. Plaids,
stripes, whatever. They’re visually distracting, can veer way too
easily into the “dorky”, and can also produce an annoying visual
abberation called “strobing”. I’d say you could either stick with a
good pair of jeans, or perhaps a good-fitting pair of slacks, and,
may be a jacket or sportcoat - could be a classic or, perhaps, if it
works with your personal style and that of your art, you could opt
for a more Western-style image. You’re in AZ, after all. (and a
jacket will hide any embarassing, uh, dampness, if the heat of the
lights does get to you. As to what to wear under it - how about a
collar-band shirt or even a plain, dark t-shirt? T-shirts are your
uniform, anyway, and - quoting one of my favorite "Non Sequitor"
cartoons, “The Revelation that Inspires Students to Seek a Career in
the Arts: $$$ = Spending Your Life in Uncomfortable Clothes.”
One thing, though - DO make sure that what you wear FITS you well.
Well tailored, clean -fitting clothes go a loooong way to making one
look thinner regardless of shape, more polished, and more relaxed and
comfortable in your own skin, regardless of the style.
If you have the option, consider carrying your on-camera wardrobe
with you and changing into it after you arrive (early enough to allow
time for that, of course) - at least your shirt and jacket. That way,
you can sidestep the potential affects of 100+ - degree outside temps
and seatbelt creases.You might also want to address the potential
issue of light flair bouncing off your bald pate. Will they have a
make-up person there, or can you bring a bit of discreet powder with
you to cut the glare? No, I’m not kidding… and bring a clothes
brush.
And wear some of your jewelry, certainly. Here, again, simplicity
and solid colours are your friends, providing the appropriate
background to showcase your art - and your obvious laid-back
Coolness.
Ok? Ok…
Break a Leg!
Margery Epstein