Technical Aspects for Using Webcam Videos to Communicate Effectively
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Introduction
3 -
Level Camera Shot
4 -
Framing Shot
5 -
Framing Example
6 -
Lighting for Webcams
7 -
Audio
8 -
Review Best Pracitces
9 -
Sources
10
Using web cameras, or small audio and video cameras connected to a computer, have become a popular way to perform communications.
To have an optimal experience a few technical tips will ensure the best possible communications.
Level Camera Shot
By using a level cmaera shot it recreates interpersonal interactions that we would have in face-to-face contexts. It avoids unnatural, highly angeld views of people that are best served for cinematic and creative uses for storytelling. Make sure your camera shoots as close to perpendicular to your body as possible.
Framing Shot
Framing is what the camera "sees" and therefore displays to other viewers. Again, working to recreate interpersonal interactions and allow for observation of non-verbal cimmunications such as facial expressions, frame the camera for a traditional head and shoulder view of the person.
Framing Example
In this framing example, we can see an instructor who has a level camera shot and frames the camera to his head and shoulders.
Lighting for Webcams
Put light sources facing you to help illuminate your body/face naturally. Sitting infront of light sources (light source behind you) such as windows or bright lamps will work to make other elements in the video darker (i.e. you) as the camera automatically reduces the maount of light entering the camera.
Audio
Position yourself so that you are always within 24" or two feet of the microphone to ensure the best audio quality. Remember that audio is the most important aspect as most of your content and communication occurs through audio.
Review Best Pracitces
Just to recap, ther are the best technical practices for communicating with web cameras.
- Keep the camera level with your head and shoulders
- Frame the camera to see your head and shoulders
- Face light sources instead of having them behind you
- Stay within two feet of the aduio microphone
Citrix Online, LLC. 7 best practices for using video in online training. 2013. Retrieved from: http://l1.osdimg.com/online/dam/pdf/en/resources/wp/GoToTraining-7-Best-Practices-for-Using-Video-in-online-training-brief.pdf
Video:
Best Practices: Producing Online Videos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kj7Yu50n70U