In today’s Working From Home (WFH) world, video calls are of vital importance. We made a number of ‘rookie’ mistakes, and love to share our learnings, so you all can benefit from an amazing WFH video conference experience.
Tips for an awesome WFH video experience:
- Have a front-facing natural light source
- Check your internet speed
- Use noise-cancelling headphones
- Eliminate any sources of noise in the room
- Use a tripod when using the phone
- Place the phone horizontally
- Don’t zoom in too close / zoom out too far
Congrats! Now you’re ready to rock you next video call or webinar!
So:
Make sure your workspace has enough light. Whether you’re using your phone camera, laptop, or something else, cameras perform best under a good light.
Your light source could be natural (which gives the best results), or artificial, such as a lamp, depending on the time of the day and light conditions at your workspace.
It is highly recommended that the light source is in front of you as much as possible to give even lighting on your face. Having the light source behind you, or on the side, will cause unwanted effects such as video noise, and you will most likely be seen as a silhouette. Make sure that you have a stable internet connection.
The minimum speed for high-definition video streaming is 5-8mbps. Also, keep in mind that during a conference call you’re uploading your video and downloading incoming video from other speakers. You can always check your internet speed before dialing in. A pair of headphones or earbuds, preferably noise cancelling, will definitely help you hear and be heard a lot better. Regardless of what kind of microphone you’re using, turn off the air conditioner and make sure you close your windows.
If you’re dialing in or recording a video message on your phone, a mini tripod is a must.
It will make sure your phone stays in place which will result in better video quality and sound. When dialing in for a video call, or recording a video message on your phone, make sure to place your phone horizontally, not vertically. Position yourself in the middle, and frame from the chest / waist up. Do not zoom in too close! – The same framing rules apply for laptops too.
