The Basics of Video Conferencing and How You Can Up Your Game

Video conferencing has become so common that almost everyone in the country is familiar with some kind of conferencing software such as Zoom, Teams, or Facetime. It has become the new “norm” to now meet with your colleagues in a 2 dimensional world as it’s ideal for safety, and less so for communication purposes. Video conferencing cannot compete against face to face, but it does have it’s benefits, especially when the very best of the technology is used properly. 

Multimedia professionals agree, video conferencing can be enhanced by better tech, and especially better technique. You don’t have to spend a fortune to create a professional looking view of your living room, kitchen, bedroom, or office space. 

1. Lighting is everything in videography, so why would video conferencing be different? Even if you don’t want to purchase small tabletop ring lights, natural sunlight (especially during normal work hours) can really do the trick. Make sure that the light is pointed directly at your face, and bright enough that it covers your face. Your camera should be pointed at you, with the light source coming from behind the camera. 
2. An office is supposed to be a professional space, so make sure your background shares the same aesthetic. Some apps like Teams and Zoom can program a background for you, but not all apps are created equal and some won’t share that additional technology. Dirty clothes, dishes in the sink, and an unmade bed make for an unprofessional background. Make sure whatever is behind you is neat and organized. A boring clean background is much better than a unique dirty one. 
3. The wrong angle can create an awkward shot, take advantage of the fact people can only see a limited view. You can use books, plates, or other stationary objects under a laptop to elevate your camera angle. A camera looking straight at you is much better than looking up at you! 

Whatever you decide to use for your video conferencing, sometimes the simplest and cheapest options have the biggest impact!