How to Look Professional in Your Living Room
In this world of remote working, many things have changed. You might find yourself giving an important client presentation on zoom, attending a virtual job interview, or pre-recording a talk from your living room. When such a large part of human communication is visual, including all the cues we pick up from body language, how do you compensate for not being in the room?
Here are our top ten tips for recording a professional video on your laptop or hosting that important zoom call:
Elevate
Elevate your laptop so that your camera is at, or above, eye level. That way, you’re looking people directly in the eye (well, at least virtually).
Lighting
Think about lighting. If possible, try facing a window so that natural light is on your face. This will reduce shadows and create a more flattering look.
Window Light
Don’t have lights, windows, or bright reflective walls or objects directly behind you. Subtle backlighting is ok, but you don’t want your background to be stealing all the attention.
Background
Consider what’s behind you. What does your background and any visible objects convey to your audience? Try to have a simple background that isn’t too busy or distracting.
Microphone
Use an external USB microphone and test it in advance. These microphones are easy to use and will help to filter out background noise. You want to ensure that your audience hears your message.
Distance
Position your laptop at a distance from your face where your head and shoulders are visible. This is referred to as a medium close-up in the movies. Any closer, and it can look a bit intimidating.
Expressions
Think about your facial expressions and the message you are conveying. Your audience can’t see your body language, so it’s even more important to express interest and enthusiasm.
Voice
We’ve all been in a meeting where someone drones on in a monotone. Don’t be that person. Add voice fluctuations to keep your audience’s attention.
Time Length
If you’re making a video, think about the length. If a 10-minute video is required, then consider breaking it into three smaller videos. It’s easier for your audience to re-watch specific content and more manageable when it’s in bitesize chunks.
Outline
Write down the bullet points of what you want to convey. Show your audience you’re prepared for the video. It’s ok to look down at your notes now and then.
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