Perfecting Posture

Among the most common faults of those facing the studio television camera is that of poor posture. Somer readers slouch back in their chairs, others–unable to sit squarely–thrust one shoulder forwards in a seemingly aggressive manner which also presents only one eye to the audience. Other readers are so nervous that they sit literally on the seat edge, or slump so round-shouldered that they fill only the bottom of the screen. Still more fidget. All of these habits are distractions. What the viewers want to see is you, the presenter, looking relaxed, confident and assured. Don’t let them spend time wondering what is wrong. They will not be able to concentrate on the important matters which you have to tell and show them, and they will become irritated, bored, and switch off.

The wriggle routine

Develop a short routine you go through before you settle down to read a script. First, wriggle yourself comfortably into your chair. If–as in the majority of news-type programmes–there is a desk between yourself and the camera, make sure the chair is at a height which suits your physique and not that of the giant who used it last. If it cannot be adjusted, ask for another.

Check that you are exactly far enough away to put down and pick up your papers naturally, without stretching. Don’t worry about the cameras. It is the responsibility of the production staff to move them if necessary. Above all, do not allow yourself to be rushed.

If you still have a tendency to slump, try sitting on your coat tail to keep your back straight. If you are not in the habit of wearing a coat, write in large letters at the top of your script ‘sit up straight’.

Using a clipboard

The more informal the programme, the more difficulties there often are for the presenter, who is likely to have to cope with a wad of script pages in one hand and a favourite pen or pencil in the other. If there are no desks or tables within easy reach, cross your legs and rest the papers on your knee. If there are many pages do not risk getting them out of order or spilling them on the floor–you don’t want to be scrambling among the camera cables just before an important interview.

The best tip is to keep your sheets on a clipboard, turning them over with the hand which holds the pen. Sheets can be discarded out of shot during the programme.

Formality and informality

Posture is important: try sitting on your coat tails to keep your back straight (1 ). If there’s no desk you’ll have to balance your script on your knee, but it can be difficult to sit elegantly (2). Informal sets have easy chairs and tables (3).