Tips to Look Like a Pro on Your Next Zoom Call

If you are like most of the world these days, you find yourself spending a lot of time on Zoom calls and meetings. If you are new to this, you may have noticed that many factors determine whether you show up to your Zoom call looking your best. The impression you leave during Zoom meetings is meaningful, so we want to help with a few tips to help you look like a pro on your next Zoom call. 

1. Get Dressed

This may seem obvious, but many people forget that a Zoom meeting is a professional event. Although you may be physically on your couch, dress like you are entering the board room. Take a shower, groom yourself, and dress appropriately. Prepare for the virtual office the same as you would for the physical office. 

2. Lighting Matters

Lighting can make you look tired and worn or light and energetic. There is power in lighting and if your video doesn't look good, people are more likely to tune out. Here are a few things to remember:

• Do not sit in front of bright windows. This may feel like it would brighten your face, but it actually causes the camera to to underexpose and create a dark silhouette.
• Test your lighting. Don't expect to turn on your webcam a minute before your scheduled call and have everything look perfect. Spend some time testing your lighting in different spaces.
• Consider timing. Your favorite spot to live stream will not have the same natural light in the morning and the evening. Remember to account for this. 

The best way to guarantee that your lighting will be perfect for every Zoom call is to purchase a ring light. We recommend the iOgrapher ring light, which has white, yellow, and warm white light options for every lighting situation. 

2. Plan Your Background

If you know you will be having frequent Zoom calls, test out a few areas in your home to find a background that is appropriate. Walls with bookshelves or artwork work nicely. If you don't have the luxury of a large space or lovely backgrounds, Zoom has some custom backgrounds that can be set to hide everything behind you. It acts as a digital green screen. If you are hosting a regular livestream or want to take your Zoom calls to the next level, set up a portable green screen behind you. 

3. Find a Flattering Position

The increased number of people working from home means that we have benefited from a ton of hilarious memes and commercials about people with Zoom call fails. No one wants to see up your nose during a Zoom call. If you don't plan to wear pants, be sure to position and lock your camera in. Keep these tips in mind:

• Position the camera slightly above you and angle it down towards your eyes.
• Don't sit too close to the camera. 
• Make sure the camera is not set to wide angle.

We love this Flexible Mini Tripod because it can hook to just about anything and easily positioned to have you look your best.

4. Camera Quality is Not Negotiable

If your laptop webcam is grainy and horrible, no need to worry. Chances are, the smart phone or tablet you are reading this article on is the quality camera you need for Zoom calls and any livestreaming. 

Whether you use a tablet or smart phone to Zoom call or livestream, presenting a professional appearance is simple and costs less than $100. Invest in any of the starter livestreaming bundles and receive a tripod, light ring, and device case. Your colleagues will think that you have been Zoom calling for years as they struggle to get their lighting and camera just right.