The goal is to appear presentable and draw attention to your face - similar to when taking headshots. One of the main differences with stage attire is the encouragement of slight exaggeration to assist in visibility by the audience or photographers. This is why wearing bright colors is okay, and applying more makeup than on a normal day is welcome. 

• Body Language 

Depending on your role in the presentation or the amount of stage time you receive, your body language can be even more essential to pay mind to than any verbal communication. Standing or sitting with an intentional posture can convey confidence to the audience. You look important, you are important - act important! 

Stage presence and the use of body language are not only of service to the live audience but for the photographers capturing images and videos throughout. Things like slouching or crossing your arms can be thought of as faux pas - and can make it seem like you don’t want to be there! Some examples of welcome behaviors to incorporate while on stage or having your photo taken for awards are:  

• Broad gestures (without looking unnatural/uncomfortable)

• Big smiles 

• Animated expressions

• Making the Most of Your Photo Opportunity

For posed images in conjunction with the ceremony, there are additional ways to prepare and make the most of your time. This photo session could take place either intermittently throughout the event (like in the case of collegiate graduation) or all at once after the presentation has concluded. While keeping in mind everything stated previously, these tips should help ensure a smooth and positive experience for all involved. 

Say you’re speaking on a panel and have to wear a large laminated nametag for the duration of it. Before taking photos, it would be best to remove this as the lamination will reflect the flash and spotlights on the camera. This is distracting and can easily be avoided! 

The photographer will most likely assist or take charge in deciding the best places for those on stage to be seen on camera. PBMisty certainly will! This spot or spots may be tagged with tape to provide a visual marker for anyone to refer to and stand on while posing for photos during the event. 

When posing with others in the case of a group photo or coupled, be sure to refrain from putting your arms around each other’s shoulders. It can often look like nobody has any arms if everyone is placing theirs behind the person next to them - especially in larger groups. To steer clear of looking uncomfortable, it is best to keep your arms lower and more to your person. 

Though seemingly tedious procedures, all of these elements come together to produce spectacular presentations and images or videos capturing them. Communication among those participating in the event as far as coordinating specifics will only further solidify the success rate of this type of occurrence for all involved. The most important thing to remember in this scenario is that this is a moment of honor and recognition. The rest is just semantics. 

Does your company have any award ceremonies coming up? Even if not - there is no time like the present to plan. Now that you’re stage-ready, let’s go! Book PBMisty here for your next event.