Use a stand, a pile of books, whatever you have, to raise your device so that the camera (usually at the top of the device) is at eye level.
When you speak, look into the camera, not at the middle of the monitor or other people on the call.
Don’t sit too close or too far away from the screen
Don’t wear a top with a busy pattern, clunky jewelry, or big dangly earrings because they may be distracting and/or noisy.
Ideally, sit facing a window so that it lights your face. The bigger the window, the better. Never sit with your back to the window or you risk looking like a silhouette. If you have no choice, set up a soft light directed at your face. Don’t use overhead lighting because it can produce unflattering shadows on your face.
Scrutinize the space you are in and what can be seen around and behind you. Neaten things up or move items out of the view of the camera. When I am able to see you and your background (as your camera sees it) I may have suggestions to help make things look even better.
Choose a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted or distracted in any way.
Make sure your phone, emails, and any other notifications are silent.
Take a deep breath and just be yourself. Yes, you may be on camera, but imagine that instead of recording our conversation, you are face to face with a loved one telling them your wonderful stories. I remember when I started out on television, I would get nervous in front of the camera or doing a live shot. Someone told me to just imagine I was talking to someone I was close to. It worked. I’d imagine I was talking to my beloved grandmother, which immediately calmed me down and also prompted me to speak more naturally. Really, that is what you’re doing — talking to the people you are close to. When you look into the camera, imagine they are there with you.
