WFH: Tips for Video Calls

As remote work (life) becomes the new normal, we’re scrambling to establish new routines and best practices. Among those, the video conference call has shifted from a novelty to a necessity. 

Lucky for you, at NJI Media we are no strangers to Zoom, Google Meet, Bluejeans or Highfive. We also have the added benefit of an expert in-house video team, who have put together some quick tips to ensure that you look, and sound, like a pro on your next call. 

How to best light & frame your video conference:

1. Make sure that your computer or phone camera is clean. You can wipe it down with a microfiber cloth before meetings – in a pinch, your sleeve works too. 
2. Allow for as much natural lighting as possible. Sitting next to a window can add a better quality of light than a lamp. Don’t just rely on the brightness of your laptop, that will cause your face to appear blue tinted. 
3. Don’t have a bright light source in the frame behind you. That will cause your camera to adjust and darken the rest of the image, including your face. 
4. Position the camera roughly at eye level.
5. Reduce the amount of clutter in the background of the image, this includes dishes, laundry, children, or anything that may be considered inappropriate at work. You should also do your best to avoid solid white backgrounds. A painting or some plants/furniture in the background will look nice, within reason. 

How to best capture audio on your computer, or phone:

1. Ensure that the microphone is not picking up noise from fans, air conditioning, or outdoor noise from an open window. If you think it might be, turn off those appliances and close any windows until the meeting or recording is over. 
2. Stay as close to your microphone as possible, the further away you are the more background noise the microphone will pick up – this must be balanced with appropriately framing the video picture, if necessary. 
3. Mute your audio if you are expecting any noises that would be distracting to other members of the conference call. 

How to best capture a video, and edit on your phone:

1. If possible, place your phone on a stable surface so that the image is not shaking. If you must hold the camera, try to set yourself up in a comfortable position and avoid shifting the position. 
2. Make sure that you are facing a natural light source if possible, and there are no strong light sources in the frame behind you.
3. Remain cognizant of what’s in the background and adjust it accordingly.
4. To edit, Adobe Premiere Rush is mobile-friendly and easily accessible for basic video editing via phone. 

If you have questions on an easy remote setup, or tips that aren’t included here – let us know!