Here you’ll find top tips to help you look and sound your best on camera – not just for during this recorded video call, but for any work and/or personal calls you may have.
The video gives practice examples of different options and illustrates the impact of certain video faux pas. Then below you’ll find a checklist of tips for getting your setup ready.
Checklist for getting set up for video call
Choose a good location for the call
This will ensure you are not distracted, and get the best image and sound quality
- Somewhere with good internet quality
- Indoors – somewhere you won’t be interrupted or distracted
- Without excessive noises or echo
Positioning yourself for good lighting
This is the biggest and best thing you can do to make yourself look good on camera, as being well lit makes everyone look their best, and also allows others to see your expressions.
- Look for a window or light source, and sit so you are facing the window or light so that it lights your face. If however the light is very strong and bright, sit back from it a bit so you are not either blinded or over-lit
- DO NOT sit with the window or bright light behind you – as this will put your face in dark shadow, in contrast to the light background, and you will not look your best
- Be aware that sometime a very strong overhead light can also cause your face to be in shadow. In this case, try and find an additional lamp or light source for your face
Clean, tidy background – But NO filters, effects, or blurs
- If you have a location with a nice and/or simple background this is ideal, but if not possible its fine to have things in the background, but please just ensure they are tidy and not distracting
- Avoid location where you’re going to have people/things moving in the background, or mirrors that will reflect you
- Remove any sensitive materials you don’t want seen in the video
- Please DO NOT use computer or software created background, filters or blur effects – as these can sometimes create an unclean border around you and/or cut into your face.
Positioning your camera
The position and angle of the camera on your computer or phone is also key to looking your best. Low angle cameras are less flattering than having the camera at eye level.
- If needed, prop your laptop/phone up on books or props so that the camera is at eye level. Make sure it is at a straight angle and not pointing to much upwards or downwards
- Ideally use a computer, but if using a phone, turn it so it is on its side ie. landscape orientation
- Sit close enough to the camera so that there is not excessive space above your head.
- Position yourself in the middle of the screen
Ensuring good audio quality
Clear audio is very important to ensure you can be heard and understood clearly
- Use headphones with a built in microphone if possible
- Ensure background music or radio is switched off
- Minimise ‘everyday noises’ from your environment, such as other people talking, loud air conditioning and fans, washing machines, excessive traffic or construction works (including if nearby windows are open)
Joining the Riverside call
Riverside.fm is a video call platform similar to Zoom and Team, but designed specifically for recording calls in good quality
- Click the Riverside link you were sent, to access the call
- Ideally use a desktop or laptop. You will not need to download any software, but be aware that Riverside only works with Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge (but not Safari or Firefox, or others)
- If you can only join the call on phone, download the Riverside app to access (via the link which will be send via email). Ensure you put your phone on its side (landscape orientation)
- Close other video call apps (ie. Zoom, Teams, Skype, Google Meet) which might be holding access to camera and mic
- Use headphones and microphone if possible – and ensure they are selected in the options
- After the call, do not close you browser immediately, but wait for confirmation the call footage has been captured fully (can be discussed with Liu/your host at end of the call)
How to join Riverside via the mobile app – if using a mobile phone for the call
Below is a video from Riverside’s YouTube page, which explains how to download their app