How do you look professional on zoom or any live event
When you are getting ready for your live broadcast, be sure to not just check your outfit and your surroundings, but also your background and camera's position as well as lighting and audio.
Ten tips to appear attractive on Zoom or a virtual event
1. Choose neutral colors
Colors that are neutral and solid like lavender, lemon yellow, and beige are the best colors to wear on camera.
However, the most important thing is choosing a shade that compliments the tone of your skin. It helps you stand out as it will ensure that your face will be well-lit as per Brian McEuen, the founder of On Brand who has worked as the Director of Merchandising at Banana Republic, too.
McEuen advises "For people with lighter complexions, choose a more dark colored top like navy, dark gray or olive-green. It can be difficult to get the right lighting on computer cameras, so it is important to ensure that your face stands out on the phone. If you're a darker-skinned person it is the reverse that works."
Another tip for success is to select a color that contrasts with your background. Why? because it prevents you from showing as the head of a fish on camera. So remember to use deeply vibrant, vivid shades.
2. Dress to feel confident
In addition to choosing colors to complement your skin tone, plan to wear what makes you feel comfortable.
At , we love blazers, blouses, collared shirts without ties as well as pullovers and more.
McEuen adds to this: "You know the nature of the call, however, to remain professional, I'd suggest to wear a dress shirt that has an appropriate collar. The audience won't only be more attentive however, dressing the way you would for going into the workplace will increase the efficiency of your employees."
3. Avoid loud prints and patterns
Reginald Ferguson of New York Fashion Geek cautions against wearing patterns on Zoom calls. "Certain designs like houndstooth can create an 'emotion' when you look at the screen."
Ferguson credits this buzz on the "More effect". The effect is created when an object such as clothing items are composed of fineand repetitive elements which are not noticed by the camera. To viewers, this can create the illusion of blurred and disorienting designs.
Ferguson is also adamant about pairing contrast colors. "For instance, pairing a light blue shirt and a grey sweater makes a bold fashion statement. It's inviting to the eyes."
4. Opt to use natural light
Position yourself in front of the window, making sure it's not behind you or on your side because that could cast shadows that appear on your face when you use the camera.
Do you work from an alternate time zone? Take a flashlight and put the lamp in front of you -- behind the camera, so that it shines on your face.
It's best to purchase a different lampIt doesn't need to be as bright as your current one. You can create a 2-point lighting set in which you place lighting sources next to your camera , or webcamwhatever you're using , facing each other from opposite directions.
5. Frame the scene
The way you see your the screen is crucial however, it's not only the one thing your colleagues will see. It is also important to consider how the video will be framed, including your distance to the camera your background, and any objects that are in the shot.
Begin by distancing yourself from the camera because the camera tends to be wide angle, which could cause a fish-eye appearance. As a result? Your face appears stretched on the outside, and then bloated in the middle.
- Keep the camera at arm's length and position your body on a flat surface.
- Make sure the camera is away from your body, but give it the interest of a throwing and even plants
Attention: If you are dependent on the mic on your laptop, don't put a large distance between you and the workspace, as it will affect the quality of your audio.
Choose a neutral color scheme with simple decor, like plant life or a vibrant throw for visually appealing. Make sure you ensure that everything is neat and tidy in order to keep your surroundings from becoming distracting.
6. Set your camera to the desired position
To look your best, position your camera at eye level. If your camera is positioned too low, the angle of your face is less flattering. Position the camera too high and the viewers will not be able to see your expressions.
For the best angle for your camera, invest in an adjustable laptop or monitor stand. If you don't have one then a pile of books will help you set up your screen so that the camera's near your eyes.
As we're on the subject, here's some more advice Look directly at the webcam -- not at the person that you're talking to for a look that mimics eye contact. You'll definitely need to look at the person to see their reactions. However, you can also look to the camera.
Pro Tip: Hide your own video during the call. This saves you from getting distracted and fixing your hair each and again.
7. Keep noise-making devices at a reasonable distance from the microphone
Your microphone will listen to the background sound (like fans, air conditioning or even cats meowing) in your space. Make sure to be aware of noises that distract you in your space.
If you are able, put the ambient sound devices far from your computer's microphone, or disable them. For the best results, always put your microphone or audio on mute when you're not speaking.
8. Enhance the acoustic absorption of your workplace
Instead of answering calls in empty rooms make your calls in rooms that have window curtains or carpets and even furniture. The reason? Sounds echo in the rooms that are not well-lit or furnished. The presence of furniture means there are surfaces that can absorb the noise, as well as help to in reducing background noise.
Do you want to create a tranquil room that doesn't have echo? Put a blanket or rug on the wall behind you, so that it blocks any sound, while also limiting the noises from outside.
Another method to reduce background noise is to place towel rolls under your room's door(s) that may have the space. It will reduce the sound emanating from.
9. Mind the audio
A different way to appear professional on Zoom calls is to improve the audio quality.
In this regard, it's best to use headphones with microphones because it puts the microphone near your. This means that it picks your voice -- not the noisy background.
If your laptop has an built-in microphone, make sure you don't stand in a position too close to your laptop. Be sure to remember that whenever you're not talking then put your voice on the mute. Selecting the mute-by-spacebar option is a great way to do this.
10. Test your video before you make
And, finally, it's crucial to review the video prior to joining an online meeting. This'll help you check your lighting, the background, as well as the frame.
The objective? Be sure that the frame is well-lit, the background is free of clutter and that nothing on the frame or clothing is interrupting viewers' focus.
To test your video before taking part in a Zoom call, select your profile image and then tap Settings. Then select Video. This will show you an overview of the selected camera. If another camera is available choose it and view your video from it.
Wrap-up: How to look good on Zoom
Here's a brief summary of key things to remember:
What to wear on camera:
- Colors that are neutral and solid. They complement your skin tone and stand out against the background.
- The collared shirt or the other item that makes you comfortable. Do not wear patterns because they may look distracting.
Background, camera, and lighting settings
- Make sure you have enough distance between you and the camera to ensure that your face doesn't appear bloated.
- Position against a flat background for a professional conference. Include a plant or vibrant artwork in the frame to make it interesting and not overcrowded.
- Make use of natural light or lamps that are placed on your side.
Audio settings for Zoom calls:
- You should ensure that your microphone is close to you to pick up your voice best. Shut off calls when you are not speaking.
- Take calls from a quiet room or use blankets, towels, and other sound absorbing accessories to cut down on echo as well as outdoor noise.
Are you interested in developing your presentation skills or virtual speaking at events? Check out our easy webinar speaker guidelines for a quick list on what to do.