Tips to Master the Webcam
A video for business will require a little more attention than a personal recording. The way you present yourself on camera when recording a video is incredibly important. We’ve all experienced webcam errors, especially these days as more and more of us are working remote and using video for business. Today, we’re going to dive into some webcam technical tips to assure that your camera, lighting, and audio are just right.
Lighting for a video for business
Keep the light source in front of you when recording
Webcam lighting is an often overlooked part of video that truly makes a huge difference in the end result. Have you ever filmed a video in front of a window where you couldn’t see yourself? That’s because the sun is way too bright. For a quick fix, use that window to your advantage by simply turning to face the window. Now, the sun will be working with you to light your face. You always want to keep the light source in front of you, so avoid recording videos with your back to a large window.
Camera angles for a video for business
When recording raise your camera to eye level
How you position yourself on camera, and the webcam angle itself, are both important factors to making a great video. When recording a video, you want the webcam placement to be raised so it matches your eye level. You can use books, boxes, or anything stable you have lying around for a DIY stand. A standing desk is a great option too! This way, it looks like you’re talking directly to your recipient as opposed to looking down, or up at them.
Look directly at the webcam
When speaking, look directly into your webcam rather than watching yourself on the screen. Looking at the camera gives the impression that you’re making eye contact, and eliminates those wandering eyes.
Center yourself on screen
Your position on screen matters too. Centering yourself on the video makes you appear more direct, instead of hiding in one of the corners. Remove any background distractions so there’s no doubt that your message is the main focus.
Audio in a video for business
Stay close to the microphone
A couple things to keep in mind for audio for video are distance to the microphone and background noise. Your distance from the microphone determines how well your recipient can hear you. As you move further away from the microphone, you will get harder to hear. Always try to keep in mind where the microphone is when recording your videos.
Eliminate background noise
Background noise is also something to look out for. If needed, try moving into a secluded room for clearer audio.
Bonus Tip
Consider the video thumbnail
When making your Covideos, keep in mind how you want the first frame to look. This is what people will see when they open your email. Be sure to smile and wave during the 3,2,1 countdown so you are ready to go when the video starts and the first frame is captured. Or you can use an animated gif, which is a great way to add some life and movement to your email to capture your recipients attention.
The best tip is to just get started.
People like doing business with people, not technology. Using a webcam reminds others that you’re human and adds a touch of personalization to business communication. So stop overthinking it – turn on that webcam and embrace the opportunity to connect person to person rather than device to device. Like anything, the more you use it, the easier it will get.
Good news!
You can give that webcam a try today with Covideo. Record and send video messages via email or text for free with Get Covideo Free. No external webcam software or additional equipment is necessary, all you need is that built-in webcam on your laptop or smartphone.
