Everyone has likely been on at least one Zoom call — whether for personal communications, business needs, or anything in between. Online videoconferencing is everywhere and has become a regular part of life. Smartphones have built-in video calls, and modern laptops are all capable of streaming video with preinstalled web cameras and microphones.
There are also professional hybrid options for when your meeting has in-person participants and virtual attendees. Neat, for example, is a premium brand that specializes in cutting-edge technology — it features sleek, gorgeous hardware interfaces and support for the most popular teleconferencing software.
Whether you’re on a laptop in your home office or watching a virtual presenter on a large screen in a boardroom with fellow employees, when you’re on camera you want to look your best. Here are a few tips for enhancing your meeting, whether it’s one-on-one or a presentation to an audience of hundreds or more.
Eyes On Camera
There are many high-quality cameras available, from webcams to DSLRs to professional studio cameras. Smartphones and tablets have excellent built-in cameras as well. Whatever camera you have, using it correctly makes all the difference in your video quality.
Make sure the camera is positioned at head-level, so you can look directly into the lens and make “eye contact” with the people on the other end of the call. Most cameras have a white balance, which adjusts for the color temperature of the light in the image. If the image looks too orange or blue, check the white balance — many cameras have an auto feature for this. Take advantage of it.
Spice Up Your Background
If your office is bland, or your home cluttered, not to worry — digital backgrounds are here to save your screen from looking dull. Streaming platforms such as Zoom and Teams have pre-installed options, but you can also upload a photo to customize your background. You can even brand your background for work-related meetings. Note that if you choose to let the software “blur” out your background, this can cause eyestrain and headaches in some people. Better to stick with a static background for the best effect.
Light Well and Prosper
Cameras need light. You can take advantage of natural light if you’re near a window (in the day, at least) or outside — just be careful the sun isn’t directly in your lens. If you’re inside, or there’s no natural lighting available, turn on what fixtures you have available so the camera has enough light to process images clearly. Another great option is a “selfie light” — a ring-light or similar device can give your face a natural, even wash for great images in any meeting.
