3 Simple Improvements for Video Call Setups
Hybrid work is here to stay and so are video calls. Here are 3 simple improvements for video call setups that you can implement ASAP.
When the 2020 lockdowns began, some of us sat at our computers thinking “I enjoy working from home.” You have your own set up, no commute and you’re closer to the fridge.
Others felt the opposite; wanting to go back to their office and be around colleagues. A work and home separation.
Whatever your feelings are – and whether you still have those feelings – we’ve all found ourselves in some sort of hybrid functioning work situation.
Some people are back to working in an office, some are still at home. The days of everyone being in the same place at the same time are long gone. Maybe indefinitely.
Bet you never utilized your computers camera so much in such a short period of time.
In other words, video calls are here to stay.
So we put together some ways to simply enhance your video call set up. Give you some things to consider if you want to invest in your work situation.
At the end of the day, these little tweaks will improve your quality of work, and that’s what’s important.
Let’s get into these improvements.
Picture Quality
Many people rely on their laptops to work remotely. Which means they use their laptop’s built-in camera, which is OK. The use of cheap webcams will also suffice.
However, if you spend a lot of you time on video calls, getting a decent quality camera will instantly make yourself look better and more professional.
The simplest solution is using an old smartphone. Most modern phones have excellent cameras. It’s also quite simple to connect them to your computer using free apps like Iruin.
If you are really looking to purchase something to up your video-call quality, you could invest in a 4K webcam. A 4K webcam will give you the most professional look, but this option can certainly be costly. Most people feel a camera that is at least 1080p HD will more than suffice.
Sound Improvements
Next up we have probably the most important aspect of your call that is most often neglected, the sound.
Think about all the calls you joined. Consider how well you can hear the other people on your call, and how well they can hear you.
These days, most video call systems give you the option of testing your microphones quality.
If you notice that your built-in microphone on your computer isn’t doing the job, it’s time to invest in a USB desk microphone.
Alternatively, you could purchase a headset with a mic. This is a very cost-effective method. Especially if you work in a noisy setting. Not only will the people in your meeting be able to hear you better, but you will be able to hear them more clearly as well.
Lighting
Lastly, we want you to think about your lighting. Even the best cameras will have issues making you looks good if there is poor lighting.
Have you ever noticed a co-workers getting lit up on a call in a way that makes them look tired or washed out. It can be very distracting.
For those who have access to good natural light, that would be the most effective solution. Natural light will always be top tier lighting.
However, this isn’t always the most accessible for everyone. If your using your phone for a call, this would imply you sitting right in front of the window. Meaning it might not be the most ideal location for doing work.
When natural light isn’t feasible, or you have time where you need an alternative light source, consider a ring light.
A ring light can definitely help illuminate you and your space. This will ensure even lighting over your face.
Once again, this does not have to be costly. In the age of social media stars, purchasing ring lights has become extremely accessible.
If you want to have full control over your lighting set up, consider using two LED lights. Therefore, you can adjust the lighting to light you and your area up. You can change the color, and even the temperature of the light to mimic the natural light coming in through your window. This will give you consistency throughout the day on all your calls.
Final Thoughts
Now here’s our last recommendation. Consider buying a camera with a built in microphone AND ring light. This is a great option that doesn’t clutter your work space. You may lose some control, but you exchange control for convenience.
The best part about all these options we’ve given you, is it doesn’t require expert set up. You could make these improvements without previous technical knowledge. You can get them all up and operating in no time, making your next video call your most professional yet!
We’d love to hear what you think about this. Are you considering updating your video call setup?
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Published with permission from Your Tech Updates.
