The $4.95 Solution To Make Your Videos Better

“It’s Too Bad. And I Don’t Mean It’s Too Bad Like ‘Screw ’Em.’”.

The link above takes you to a picture of Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein and article about him from the July 24, 2011 edition of New York Magazine.

You don't have to read the article, but I did like how Mr. Blankfein is allowing powder to be put on his balding head and face before the TV camera rolls.  

Scenario:  A company pays good money to record their executives speak on camera. They rent a crew, HD camera, lights, and director.  The talent comes in and declines powder to wipe the shine off his face.  The rough cut comes in and everyone wonders why the executive looks so shiny/oily/sweaty.

A little powder goes a long way so don't forget to bring it to your shoots.  I generally use Clairol CoverGirl translucent powders.  They come in a host of shades -- so to be prepared -- I bring a fair, medium, tan and dark powder with me at all times.

I use wedges to apply it and throw them out when the shoot is done.  

Lately, I've had a more than a few male executives to decline wanting to use powder on their face.  We all have a little shine and the bright lights pointed at your face just make it all that more noticeable.  
 

In some cases when people don't want powder, I'll use oil cleaning wipes that have no odor but do a pretty good job in getting off the shine.  Most men have no qualms about using them.  I carry all of this in a toiletries bag and it's the first thing I pack for any shoot.

Lesson: Get the shine off for better looking video.