Don't Wear Sweatshirts for TV Interviews (And Other Life Lessons)
By Aaron Traister, REDBOOK
I recently took the day and traveled to New York City for a taping of a segment for The Thread on Yahoo's Shine Web-broadcast thing.
I'm from Philadelphia, and normally the only time Philadelphians are asked to be on TV (or internet TV) is when it turns out one of our neighbors is a serial killer, or you're stuck at the airport thanks to a major snow storm, or you get Tased at a baseball game. So, needless to say, this experience was completely alien to me. It turned out not to be nearly as intimidating as you might think and I learned some valuable lessons that I thought I'd share with you so that the next time you get Tased at your favorite sporting event, you're prepared to meet the press.
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1. Don't wear sweatshirts. They are not flattering. The camera adds 10 lbs., and a sweatshirt adds another 150. My favorite comfy sweater betrayed me in front of the cameras and gave me moobs and a spare tire, as opposed to concealing my moobs and spare tire.
2. Wear painfully bright footwear. Sneakers that might glow in the dark help distract the audience from your unflattering sweatshirt.
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3. Don't curse so much. It ain't classy, and they just have to start over.
4. Stay in one position. When you're nervous that you rock back and forth uncontrollably (and occasionally cry), it's hard for the camera person to keep you in the frame.
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5. Bring gifts. I brought cookies.
6. Be prepared to face your dark side. I have to say I thought I was pretty comfortable with my body, and that I didn't give a damn attitude when it comes to how people see me, but oh my: I'm vain and craven. I can't stop talking about my moobs and sculpted facial hair. Look at me-I'm beautiful, I'm hideous! Sweatshirt.
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