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10 Tips to Look Like a Pro on Video

Apr 17, 2020 2 min read Stacey Fonseca

Key Takeaways

  • Isolate in a quiet space to avoid any interruptions.
  • Check to make sure you have adequate lighting – natural is best.
  • Keep your camera aimed up and at an angle to your face.

 

 

Video conferencing has helped many people stay in contact with loved ones and colleagues while the world is social distancing. Video is much more engaging than audio alone and it can be a great tool to reduce travel expenses and connect teams. And, let’s face it, you’re also less likely to multitask or mentally check out while you’re on camera, so you may find you’re paying attention more on video versus voice calls.

If your work or personal life now includes communicating via video, zoom in on these quick tips on how to improve your on-camera appearance.

 

Lights

  • Light it up. It’s best to sit opposite a window, as natural light is most flattering for your face. In case of a dismal day, soft light from a lamp can lighten the mood.
  • Practice makes perfect. Before your meeting begins, do a test run with a friend or colleague to test the best lighting.

 

Camera

  • Check your equipment. Built-in computer webcams don’t produce the best quality video, nor do they have the best sound. If you have the means, invest in a separate webcam.
  • Keep the camera up and at an angle. If you’re looking to lessen the number of chins that may appear on camera, position your camera higher up, so it is looking down at you.
  • Look the camera in the eye. Pretend your audience is in the room with you and look at the camera directly, not down at your desk. If your eyes don’t know where to look, try gluing a pair of googly eyes on either side of your camera, so your eyes have a focal point.
  • Check your composure. Center yourself in view and have your body fill in from your mid-chest up. Don’t leave too much space up above your head but be mindful not to chop it off either.
  • Can we hear you now? Choose a quiet space away from kids, dogs, lawnmowers and music. Use headphones with a microphone for better sound quality. Sit in a carpeted room, or one with with several pieces of large furniture to lessen the echo.
  • Please wear pants. You should always dress appropriately. You never know if you’re going to run out of ink or when the dog needs to go out – better safe than sorry.

 

Action

  • Keep it clean. Tidy up your recording space, or at least angle the camera so it misses the mess. A solid, neutral colored background is ideal.
  • Look like a natural. If you typically wear makeup to work, stick with that routine. Unless your meeting involves an audition for a Broadway show, it’s best to look like yourself.

 

 

Remember, you’re always on!

It’s always important to keep in mind you’re on camera. That means if you’re watching your neighbor wash his car, your meeting is watching you watch your neighbor wash his car. People can also hear everything you say (and anything said in the background.) It’s always a good idea to double-check you have pressed the mute button before you tell everyone how you really feel about that fast-approaching due date.

 

Footnotes

Stacey Fonseca is the copywriting manager for Prudential Retirement

 

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