HOW TO LOOK GOOD ON VIDEO CALLS By Dr K ieron Cooney, M BBC h i r F R CGP MSc Aest het ic Med ici ne
COSM EDICA CL I N ICS
“Self consciousness is the enemy of all creativity” (Ray Bradbury 1920-2012) Since the pandemic many more of us are working from home, and conducting video calls, virtual conferences and webinars from our living rooms. Cosmedica Clinics recognises the challenge of seeing ourselves on camera; we have taken part in our fair share of online video calls via Zoom! The question we are often asked now is how to improve the way we look on camera? There is a new pandemic: Zoom Face phenomenon. When we sit in front of a computer or smart phone camera we often see ourselves magnified and our features out of proportion, especially with that head and shoulder shot highlighting the larger than life forehead and nose. The camera view couldn’t be more unforgiving! Cosmedica Clinics offers a whole variety of options to help project a healthy and rejuvenated appearance on camera, but there are some things you can do to help yourself: IT solutions - Softening filters and ‘touch up’ picture adjustments with colour enhancement and soft glow settings can help. Try the Zoom ‘touch up my appearance’ link once you open Zoom on your PC or laptop. Lighting - Avoid that glare on your nose or shiny forehead reflecting into the screen like an unwelcome spotlight. Best to use soft lighting from a source in front of you such as a window or shaded lamp, or even a ring makeup light. Camera angle - Don’t look down at the camera. That will highlight laxity of the neck and lower face and cause unflattering shadowing of facial hollows and lines. Instead set the camera to eye level and gaze directly forward into the lens, allowing the appearance of jaw tightening, enhancing the cheek profile and slimming the neck. Rehearsal on camera - Like all good performers and directors, you want to achieve the best angle to maximise your best look. Set the camera up in private and look at how your natural facial expressions appear to you on video and then play with the camera position and lighting. Talk to Vicky or Dr Kieron for advice on aesthetic facial treatments, from the popular HydraFacial rejuvenating treatments and prescription strength medical grade facial creams and serums to wrinkle relaxing and softening injections. Whatever you do stay positive and don’t let the camera ruin your day! For an appointment and more information contact Vicky at enquiries@cosmedicaclinics.co.uk or phone 01983 566680
November and December 2020
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