Your 60 seconds of fame
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Your 60 seconds of fame

By October 5, 2018 No Comments

In all likelihood, if you haven’t experienced it already, you will be asked by a client or media outlet to join a Skype, Go To Meeting or Facetime or other form of video call. Don’t mess up the opportunity by making any one of these 3 mistakes!

1

Don't:

Open your laptop and tilt the screen back so the viewer is looking up your nostrils.
2

Don’t:

Ignore what else is visible in the shot, that might be embarrassing later.
3

Don’t:

Ignore the lighting.
This FaceTime call comparison shows how with a few adjustments, you can greatly improve the video you are sharing:
bad Video call sample good Video call sample
1

Compose the shot you intend to broadcast before you start.

Turn your camera on and find a location that looks good. Try not to sit with a wall close behind you and be aware of what is visible in the background. Ensure your head and shoulders are framed without too much headroom.
2

Control the camera angle.

Don’t sit too close to the camera with the screen tilted back. Instead, prop your camera up to raise it to the same level as your face.
3

Be aware of your light sources and make adjustments if necessary.

If a bright light source is behind you (for example windows) turn around so that you are facing the light or move a lamp between the computer and your face, but off to the side (out of frame) to add fill light. Try to avoid overhead light unless you can make corrective adjustments.
Doug McLellan

Doug McLellan

Doug is a writer, director and cinematographer. A visual thinker who has travelled the world, he likes seeing the big picture while sharing the important details.