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.