Before 2020 few people regularly used Zoom or other video conferencing programs. By the beginning of 2020, however, they have become an integral part of our lives.
Most of us know what it is like to gasp at our image onscreen and wonder why we look so bad! A new kind of envy has settled in as we find ourselves jealous of those who seem to have a perfect model appearance on camera.
The truth of the matter is that there are a few simple tricks that can help us look great on Zoom. We may even be able to look better online than in person! This article will go over a few tricks and tips that we all will do well to apply.
Tip 1: Use the Right Lighting
This may not seem like a fashion tip; however, there are few things as important to the fashion industry as lighting. If you have ever been to –or on– a runway, then you know just how much importance there is on the lighting. Not to mention that no model, no matter how beautiful, will have a successful photoshoot without the right lighting.
So why should your Zoom meeting camera be any different? There are a few simple tricks that will help you, for example, never have your back to a window. The lighting should be straight on, pay attention to the quality of the lighting also. Bright white lights make may you look pale and may bring out imperfections, however lights that are too “warm” may make you look yellowish. Play around with the quality of the light and the colors, while paying attention to the shadows.
Tip 2: Wear the Right Colors
Colors can cause several complications. Most cameras don’t pick up nuances in patterns, sometimes any dark color comes across as black, and bright white can throw off the camera’s balance and seem to glow depending on the lighting.
Therefore, it is safer to avoid crazy or intricate patterns, opting for solid colors. Be wary, however, of bright white or black. Black can lose depth and look like a blob, and nobody wants to look like a blob! 😉
Tip 3: Adjust Your Makeup Routine
Don’t think that being at home means being able to skimp on makeup! It is almost more important to a Zoom meeting than an in-person meeting! Wear your normal makeup while you take into consideration the following points:
- Pay attention to dark look under your eyes; the camera likes to pick up on that!
- Make sure your eyebrows are filled in, as the lighting sometimes makes them look thinned out.
- Cover up any marks or pimples; these are usually exaggerated by the camera.
- Use some kind of blush the camera likes to make us look pale.
Tip 4: Concentrate on Your Upper Body
It is no surprise that your upper body is the most important and visible part on a zoom call. Some people wear shorts, sweats, or even their underwear without being noticed. We do not recommend that, however, since there have been embarrassing cases of tablets or cellphones falling. In addition to the fact that dressing professionally helps you feel and act professionally.
It is better always to choose a top that shows your neck. If you use a turtleneck, buttoned-up shirt, etc., it sometimes makes you look like a floating head. Such an effect can be very distracting and somewhat embarrassing!
Tip 5: Avoid Shiney Fabrics
Shiney fabrics or sheer tops can be picked up by the camera in an unflattering way. It is usually much better to choose knits, matte fabrics to use in front of the camera.
Conclusion
Looking good on Zoom is possible and quite easy once you understand the quirks of being in front of a computer camera. We recommend taking some time to practice in front of your computer by yourself. There is a way that you can open camera settings while in a Zoom call by yourself, or simply use a program like Photo Booth that shows your image on your computer screen.
Once you have your image on the screen, you can play around with the lighting, angles, background, outfits, makeup, etc. You will find that on your next Zoom meeting, you will look and feel better than ever!
