Microsoft Hardware Blog

When people shoot videos with their webcam, they often don’t consider how their surrounding environment (or even what they’re wearing) might affect the overall quality of their video. The result, in many cases, is videos that are dark, bland, or even distracting. You want to make sure that viewers can easily focus on the video’s main subject, and don’t have to make an effort to see it clearly. If you’re having an important video call or you’re just recording a funny video to post online here are some tips that can help you look your best:

• Position your LifeCam following a straight line from your eyes. Also, sit at least 12 inches away from the camera.
• Remember that having good lighting is really important. Make sure that the light surrounding your face is as even as possible. This way, you won’t see shadows on your face.
• Avoid uneven lighting such as pointing a lamp directly to your face or very dim light such as using your monitor as the only light source. These situations are challenging for any camera.
• Try wearing solid, light colors. Wearing heavy patterns like stripes or plaid can create some funny effects on the video.
• Trial and error usually works. Open your LifeCam software and see what the video looks like before a having a video call. Go ahead and turn on/off the lights, move the lamps around or even change your location in the room. This way you can find the best spot for your video call.
• Finally, if you have an HD LifeCam (LifeCam Cinema, LifeCam HD-5000, LifeCam HD-5001), make sure that TrueColor Technology is always on by opening the LifeCam software and clicking on “settings” on the right hand side of the image. This way, the webcam will make the necessary adjustments to improve the video quality automatically.

Feel free share other tips with us that you’ve found useful when setting up a video call.