5 Tips for Better Video Conferencing

By Peter Chatterton
Peter Chatterton Photography
Website: www.peterchatterton.ca

1-Angle of your webcam.  Make sure your camera is at eye level or slightly above.  Everyone will be disappointed if you have your laptop open on a coffee table with the camera pointing up your nose.

Pro-Tip: use a stack of books on your desk as a laptop (or monitor) stand to gain the extra camera position height.

2-Light source and position.  The largest light source you have available is the best.  If you can setup in front of a large window that would be ideal and help you look your finest.  Try to avoid overhead lights or lights shining up from underneath you.  It’s also very important to have a distraction free background.  Use a clean (white if possible) wall as your background so there are no competing lines or shapes that intersect with your head.  This is distracting to whomever you are in a conference with.

Pro-Tip: A North-facing window will provide the most even and softest light throughout the day.  Create a space with a distraction free background near a north facing window for the most professional look possible anytime the sun is out.

3-Attire.  It’s a business call.  Would you show up to a meeting at the office in pyjamas? Dress the part.

Pro-Tip: Wear pants.

4-Camera resolution.  If you have your choice between devices for your video conference choose the newest one as it will have the best possible front facing camera and image/resolution.  For example: if my laptop is from 2011 and I just bought a Galaxy Note 9 I’ll go with the 9 every time to provide my colleagues / clients with the best possible video image.

Pro-Tip: If you decide your phone has the best/newest camera cruise Amazon for a tabletop cellphone tripod that will fit your model phone.  This will allow you to position the phone and follow Guideline #1.

5-Internet speed.  Continuing the theme of providing the best possible video experience for colleagues or clients, it’s always recommended that you are as close to your Wi-Fi router as possible for the best and fastest internet connection.  This will keep the video signal crispy clean and help avoid any awkward pauses or disconnections.

Pro-tip: use a Wi-Fi speed testing website to calculate your router’s real-time speed.  You can compare, fine tune and trouble-shoot from there to help kick your internet speed into high-gear.