A guide to video conference lighting

Today, video conferencing is nearly as common as texting and phone calls. Video calls are effective ways to virtually hold meetings, work with clients, and hire employees. However, unlike phone calls, video often requires you to be on camera. And with the right lighting and a few pro tips, you can always look your best.

Read on for a few ways to use natural light and affordable lighting solutions to ensure your next video call is high-quality and polished.

Understand your computer’s webcam and the lighting in your space

Optimize video quality

First, you’ll want to tune the settings in your computer’s camera and video conferencing software. Many modern laptops have HD (high-definition) cameras built in, but even the best camera can be impacted by low-light conditions. A grainy, unflattering video can be distracting to your peers.

Double-check the contrast, brightness, white balance, and color temperature settings, which, when off, can cause you to look orangey or blueish in tone.

Assess your workspace for better lighting

Next, get a sense of what you’re working with and where you typically sit. This will help you figure out if you can easily use what you’ve got or if additional lights would improve the scene.

(Tip: If you’re in a room with windows, try this a few times during the day, so you know how morning light differs from afternoon light.)

Fire up your video conferencing app or turn on your computer’s camera. What do you notice? Is the background dark, but your face is harshly lit? Is your face dark, but the background is washed out? Are there distracting shadows on your face? Move your camera and seat around to see how contrast, exposure, and video quality change. Then, experiment with overhead lights, dimming or brightening your computer’s screen, and drawing blinds or drapes.

If the light is still lacking, here are more tricks and tools to help you get things right.

A professional’s guide to lighting setup

Before you invest in a new light, there are a few hacks you can try to improve the lighting when you’re in front of the camera.

Maximize natural light

Use natural light to your benefit. Natural light is best when it’s coming at you directly or at an angle, but never from behind you. (This will cause your face to be very dark.) If you can, position your device near a window, so you’re facing it, or at a slight angle for a more cinematic, flattering look. If your space doesn’t allow that, a simple, white poster board can be used as a “bounce board” to reflect more natural light your way.

Techniques for softening your lighting setup

Find ways to soften lighting. Brighter isn’t always better. If you can, adjust light settings or lamp angles to avoid harsh light. Aim a light at the ceiling or wall to get a “bounce” effect. Or, try diffusing light by draping a T-shirt or an inexpensive shower curtain over a lamp or window to soften harsh angles.

Balancing natural and indoor lighting: Avoiding color casts

Be careful when mixing natural light with indoor light. This can cause color casts and an unnatural look, like an orange or blue tone.

Choosing LED lights for comfort and efficiency

Opt for LED-powered lights. LED bulbs won’t put off as much heat, which is helpful when you’re sitting in close range for a long time.

Enhance your video background

Don’t forget the backdrop. Background lamps can help boost brightness in your space, but avoid bare bulbs that may be too distracting or cause glare. Need to hide your background altogether? A collapsible photo background is an option, or you can opt for a virtual background. Many companies have a graphic designer create a custom background with a company logo for some solidarity from afar.

Improve video conferencing with affordable & quality lights

Even with all of the above, sometimes your space is just too tricky, and natural light will always depend on the weather. This can make additional lighting helpful to polish up your appearance. You can find a variety of options in a few price ranges, including:

• Ring lights. These are flattering for artificial lights because of their shape and diffused bulbs.
• Lights under $25. Search for small, dimmable LED camera lights that use AA batteries like this one. They’re easy to take with you and set up.
• Lights under $50. For this price, you can find more professional lights with softboxes, stands, and remotes—if you’re looking for something more heavy-duty for recorded calls.
• Lights under $100. This portable RGB light is powerful and magnetic, so that it can be mounted easily on metal surfaces. It also charges wirelessly and comes with its own softbox and mobile app.

Invest in your business's communication equipment and services

When it comes to video conferencing, there’s no substitute for the right technology and good connectivity. Sign up for Capital One Business Deals for free and get corporate discounts on mobile data plans and computer equipment. Ensure you’re boosting productivity, minimizing interruption and frustration as you work remotely, and most of all, staying connected to your customers.