SMILE FOR THE CAMERA Our simple two step guide to successful video calling
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hether it’s doing a presentation at a virtual conference or Facetiming your auntie you want to look and feel confident. It’s become part of our daily lives. If video calling sends you into a state of panic fear not – our two step guide will help you relax knowing that at least technically everything is set up to show you in your best light. Before you begin, it’s worth thinking about your device (smart phone, tablet, computer etc). The technology may be the same but the outcomes are often different – the most obvious example is the size of the picture and what is being seen by the person on the other end.
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STEP ONE: ENVIRONMENT Have plenty of light, ideally in front of you. Overhead light will do, but often the best option is natural light. Tip: Don’t have a window behind you (unless you want to appear mysterious) – it will show you as a silhouette. Check what’s behind you – the last thing anyone you’re calling needs to see is your washing drying in the background! Use a plain wall as a backdrop. If there isn’t one find a space where no one can walk behind you. Unless you want your pets or children to be part of the chat, it’s a good idea to keep them out of the room. Both love to join in if they can hear voices!
