Practice in video communication (I)

From business meetings and academic conferences to tutoring sessions, video calls give us the opportunity to connect with people all over the world. However, to get the most out of these virtual interactions, it is essential to ensure that the video quality is optimal.

In this session, we will explore in depth the importance of ensuring a professional image in our video calls, as well as some general recommendations we can take to achieve a successful video communication experience.

Proper framing during a video communication is of utmost importance, as it directly affects the perception and understanding of our message. Proper framing ensures that our face is the focal point and allows us to convey our facial expressions and body language effectively.

When we are too far away from the camera, our face can appear small and unclear, making it difficult for others to see us clearly and connect with us emotionally.

On the other hand, positioning ourselves too close to the camera can be equally problematic. In this position, our face can take up much of the frame, which can be overwhelming for the audience. Also, by being too close, our movements may be limited or others may not be able to appreciate the full context of what we are communicating.

Proper framing also helps maintain a more natural and flattering perspective. When our face is centered and clearly visible on the screen, we create a sense of closeness and connection with the audience.

Some general recommendations to ensure a smooth and professional video call experience are:

• Dress appropriately: Although video communication is often conducted from the comfort of our home, it is important to dress appropriately for the context. Opt for attire that is appropriate for the occasion and reflects professionalism if necessary.

• Maintain eye contact: During video communication, try to look directly into the camera rather than at the screen. This creates a sense of eye contact and makes communication more up close and personal.

• Adjust volume and audio quality: Check that your microphone is set up correctly to ensure that your voice is heard clearly. Avoid speaking too loud or too soft and adjust the audio quality for a more pleasant listening experience.

• Speak clearly: When speaking during the video call, it is important to articulate words clearly and pause appropriately to allow others to process the information.

Lighting is a critical aspect of video communication, as it directly affects the quality of the image. Adequate lighting is essential to ensure that our face is well lit and our facial expressions are clearly perceptible during the video call.

Avoiding excessive shadows is important because shadows can obscure parts of our face, making it difficult to see our expressions and gestures. Direct light from above or from the side can create unflattering shadows under our eyes, nose or chin, which can negatively affect our appearance and the understanding of our expressions.

To maintain a balanced and professional image, it is advisable to use a soft, diffused light that evenly illuminates our face without creating harsh shadows. A natural light source, such as daylight through a window, can be ideal.

If you do not have access to a natural light source, additional lights, such as lamps or ring lights, can be used to provide even and pleasant illumination.

Good lighting also helps to project a good image and ensures that other participants can see you clearly and in detail.