August 13, 2020
How to Look Good on Zoom
It’s a new world, folks, and it seems like everyone from teachers and business executives to plumbers are using Zoom and similar programs to do business.
Here are a few tips to keep you looking as good (or better!) on screen than in real life.
Lighting
Natural light is best, but please pay attention to the direction it’s coming from. Unless you want to look like someone in the Witness Protection Program, ie. a shadowy silhouette with no discernible features, don’t plant yourself with your back to that lovely window. Try flipping things around and face the window instead-with your laptop or web cam positioned between you and that nice garden view.
Also, unless you have the complexion of a porcelain doll, beware of light that hits you from the side. Professional photographers employ side lighting to highlight and emphasize “interesting” textures, but most of us don’t consider our personal topography of moles, enlarged pores and crepe-y skin very interesting. Your best option is diffused (think sheer curtains or a transparent shade) natural lighting that hits us from the front. You can test drive different positions before going live with your Zoom call.
If natural light is unavailable, experiment with a variety of different light sources and positions-for example combining an overhead light fixture and a well-positioned reading lamp. Try doing this well in advanceof your Zoom event so you are not tripping over extension cords, switching out light bulbs and precariously balancing table lamps on bookshelves two minutes before your meeting.
