Television Lighting and Cameras

Television takes a three dimensional world and condenses it into a two dimensional medium. Light and images are manipulated to create the illusion of depth on a two dimensional screen. Many average looking people appear quite stunning on TV. Likewise, many good looking people appear rather unattractive on TV. This is what people are talking about when they say someone is "photogenic. Understanding the principles of the television medium will help you look better on television.

You must learn the principles of lighting. Things that are lit well tend to look good. If you are lit bad, you will look bad. Do not be afraid to point out lighting problems. Bad set lighting if often left unfixed until an anchor complains about it. Just be sure to complain politely.

First pay attention to the key light. It is the main light source that shines on the anchors from behind the center camera. The anchors must be looking in the direction of the key light or they will not be the center of attention on camera. Ask the key light to be adjusted if it is not shining right on you. Looking toward a key light will be tough on your eyes at first. Get used to it. Bright lights are an important part of television. Keep in mind that the key light can be the sun if the set is outside during the day.

Since the key light is so bright, it casts harsh shadows. They must be tempered with fill lights. They are not as bright as the key light and are placed at opposite angles to the key light. This gets rid of the shadows but leaves behind enough contrast to give the illusion of depth. If you notice shadows across your face or are washed out by the key light, ask for improved fill lights. This is very important for showing off the best details of an anchor's face.

If you notice that your skin is reflecting light despite wearing adequate makeup, ask for the light to be softened. This is accomplished by bouncing the light off of walls, ceilings, or reflectors, or shining the light through filters or gels.

Another important light is the back light. It shines on the back of the anchor's head from behind. The back light is important because it separates the anchor from the background. It is especially vital for anchors with dark hair against a dark colored set. Inadequate back lighting results in the anchor's hair blending into the surroundings. If you notice this happening, ask for a better back light.

Be aware of focal length. It is often said that the camera adds 10 pounds. This is the result of a three dimensional world being squashed into a two dimensional medium. Television camera lenses play tricks with light. The closer you are to the camera the more it spreads things out and the heavier you appear. Never allow yourself to be photographed by a camera closer to you than 10 feet. The farther you are from the camera the thinner you will look. Back up to slim down.

Recognize which camera shots make you look your best. Most people look great in head and shoulders shots. Slim people look decent in full body wide shots. No one looks good in a 3/4 shot that covers you from head to just below the hips. Always ask how you are being shot and object if the shot is unflattering. If possible, request a "preview" shot in a monitor you can see.

"Cheat" to the camera. Since depth is an illusion on television you should always strive to provide depth with your body. If the camera shoots you straight on, you will appear to be wide and flat. Try to "cheat" to the camera by presenting your body at a slight angle. While anchoring, press one hip to the desk while the other is a few inches back. Place the hand on the side of the forward hip slightly in front of your other hand. If you are standing, step forward a half step with one foot so one shoulder is slightly closer to the camera. You will appear to be three dimensional and more dynamic. Remember to always "cheat" toward your co-anchor. You should be slightly facing each other, not away from each other.

Always be aware of which camera is on you. Most television newscasts involve multiple camera shoots. Different cameras have different shots of different focal lengths with different lighting. You must know everything that is going on at every second. If you study the show rundown you will become familiar with which camera is shooting at any given time. During unscripted shoots you must casually recognize which camera light is on. If you are aware of your surroundings, you wont get caught looking at the wrong camera.