How to properly organize a video call or video conference: 5 useful tips from CallOut

Self-isolation and quarantine regimes have significantly changed the lifestyle of most people. More and more often we have to communicate not live, but via the Internet. Messengers with video calling capabilities have become very popular.

People hold virtual weddings, business meetings, get-togethers with friends. Suddenly it becomes important how we look in the video. And few people have devoted time to this issue before – only professionals can always be ready to shoot.

Self-isolation and quarantine modes force many to use video chat apps. This gave rise to a whole series of questions – at what distance from the camera it is better to be, how to set up the microphone, and place light sources. With these tips, given from free conference call app CallOut, you can best customize your video calls.

Light up your face

The best place to start setting up your video is with lighting. This is what will determine where you are in front of the camera. Open your shutters or curtains and let natural light into the room. But don’t let him get right behind you. It is recommended that the main light source be directly in front of you or no more than 45 degrees away from you. It is worth remembering that the screen of a monitor or laptop is also a source of light, so it is worth adjusting the brightness accordingly, especially if the call is received without natural light. A bright screen can light up your face, making you look more like a ghost :)

How high should the camera be?

There is only one acceptable camera angle – it should be at eye level and look straight ahead. Usually the table is located below our face, which means that people will look at you from the bottom up, which causes discomfort. Use a stack of books, a stool, or find a high table to align the camera with your eyes. You don’t want to seem arrogant or virtually “put pressure” on your interlocutor from above, do you?

Check video settings before calling

Do you want your video conversation to look good right away and not have to run around adjusting the camera and tilt, screen brightness, hair style or setting? It’s stupid if everyone is watching this fuss on the air. Nowadays, almost everywhere you can preview your video even before starting a call. If you choose this option, then before the call you can open a preview window and see how you will look in front of your interlocutors.

After starting a video conference, it is recommended to hide the video preview. After all, he will encourage you to constantly correct your hair or the angle of the camera, distracting all sides from direct conversation.

Choose a quiet place and use your best headphones

Most of us pay little attention to sound control. You need to understand that you will be heard better if you accept the call in a quiet place. Also keep in mind that your headphones may have a better microphone than your computer. Most video conferencing applications have microphone testing tools in their settings. It is worth collecting all the microphones available in the house, including the built-in headphones, and testing them. So you can choose the one that gives the clearest sound.

Make yourself comfortable

As with any regular meeting, once you join a video conference, you will no longer be able to get up and move around. It is worth equipping yourself with a comfortable place during the conversation. Think about where you would be comfortable sitting or standing for a long time. It might seem like the easiest way to relax is sitting on the bed, but twenty minutes later, this cross-legged position will suddenly create discomfort. A good option would be to set up a video call on your desktop, at which you probably spend a lot of time anyway. If you are using a laptop, connect the charger to it or be prepared for the fact that the battery may be discharged during use. Many people like to come to such meetings with a bottle of water or a cup of coffee.