The struggle to look good on video calls is a common one, especially with the less-than-ideal quality of laptop webcams. Many of us have experienced the frustration of looking like a potato on these calls, but there are ways to improve our appearance without much effort.
In an article by The Wall Street Journal, the author shares their own experience of trying to look presentable on video calls. They mention spending a significant amount of time setting up their surroundings to create the best possible lighting and angle for their webcam. This includes using floor lamps to counteract harsh fluorescent lighting and even resorting to unconventional setups, like placing their laptop on a windowsill for better lighting.
Despite these efforts, the author admits that they still never quite achieve the level of sharpness they desire. This is primarily attributed to the poor quality of laptop webcams, which are often low-resolution and unable to capture fine details. It’s a hardware limitation that many laptop manufacturers overlook in favor of slim design and cost-cutting.
However, there is a solution to this problem. Some companies, such as Apple, allow users to use their phones as webcams for their laptops. By connecting your iPhone to your laptop via the same iCloud account, you can easily use it as a high-quality webcam. This option provides better video quality and can significantly enhance your appearance during video calls.
While this solution may sound promising, it’s important to note that relying on your phone as a webcam may come with its own set of challenges. It can be unreliable at times, and constantly using your phone as a webcam can drain its battery quickly. Nevertheless, it can still be a viable alternative if you’re looking for a way to improve your video call appearance without investing in external webcams or other expensive equipment.
In conclusion, looking good on video calls is not always easy, especially when relying on the mediocre webcams found on most laptops. However, with the option to use your phone as a webcam, you can significantly enhance your video quality and improve your appearance. Despite the potential drawbacks, it’s a simple and cost-effective solution that can make a noticeable difference in how you come across during virtual meetings. So, say goodbye to looking like a potato and hello to a sharper, more professional image on your next video call.
