If you’re an entrepreneur, business person, or professional in general, the shift towards remote work and video conferencing has been inevitable. Virtual meetings and video calls are now the norm, and they’ve replaced the old-fashioned, in-person face to face meetings.
Given the current global situation, the demand for video calls has drastically increased, and so has the need for professional video backgrounds. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing some practical tips on how to choose the right physical backdrops for video calls, to ensure that your calls are conducted in a professional and appealing manner. This is a vitally important skill for any entrepreneur or business professional.
Why Choose a Physical Backdrop?
As more and more people are working remotely, video calls have become crucial for communication. However, have you ever considered what’s behind you during those calls? A physical backdrop can not only give a professional look to your video calls, but it can also help eliminate distractions. Using a physical backdrop, such as a neutral-coloured wall or a branded banner, can make a lasting impression on your clients or colleagues. It shows that you are invested in your work and are taking your video calls seriously. Additionally, it helps avoid awkward moments that can arise if your background is messy or unprofessional. When it comes to video calls, every detail matters, so it’s worth investing in a physical backdrop to ensure that you are putting your best foot forward.
Tips for Choosing Your Physical Backdrop
- Assess Your Colour Choices
- Evaluate the Lighting
- Choose a Professional Background
- Be Mindful of Your Location
- Incorporate Your Personality!
Assess Your Colour Choices
Colour coordination is crucial when it comes to selecting the perfect backdrop for your video call. When choosing colours, it’s important to keep in mind that bright colours, neon colours, and clashing shades can be distracting and overwhelming for the viewer. Hence, opt for neutrals like beige, grey, or white, which will create a balanced and professional backdrop.
Evaluate the Lighting in Your Environment
Your choice of background should also be determined by your environment’s lighting conditions. Ensure that you’re in a well-lit space for your video call. Consider the direction of the light, the brightness of the room, and the time of day, to guarantee that you aren’t under or overexposed. If you want to opt for a more creative and artistic background, make sure that it’s well-lit to emphasize the details.
Choose a Professional Background
When conducting a virtual meeting or call, it’s important to maintain a level of professionalism. Opting for a professional or corporate backdrop can make a significant impact by conveying your focus and setting the tone for the discussion. A professional-looking office, curtains, a bookcase, or a plain wall can all serve as a great video call backdrop.
Be Mindful of Your Location
Location scouting is just as important for video calls as it is for a film. Choose a specific spot in your home that’s cordoned off and orderly, with little to no extraneous noise, ensuring that your visual background is uncluttered and free of too many distractions. It’s best to avoid spaces like kitchens, bedrooms, or bathrooms as they can seem unprofessional.
Incorporate Your Personality!
Lastly, while professionalism is critical in business, it’s essential to express yourself and be authentic. Incorporating pieces of your personality, like travel souvenirs, personal photos, or a statement piece in your background, can be a relatable and engaging conversation starter during your call. It will make the atmosphere less formal, and at the same time, you’re adding a bit of character to your video.
Who Should invest in a Physical Backdrop for Video Calls?
While we all strive to look our best on these calls, a good physical backdrop can make a huge difference in how we are perceived by others. If you are someone who frequently conducts business meetings or interviews via video calls, you should consider investing in a physical backdrop. A clean and professional-looking setup behind you can help you create a lasting impression and convey a sense of seriousness and commitment towards your work. This often applies to business professional, managers, entrepreneurs and those who work in remote agency’s.
If you are an entrepreneur, you might want to read our article ‘Tips for Buying Purchase Order Books.’ However, anyone who spends a significant portion of their day looking at faces on a screen might consider improving the quality of their surroundings.
How Much Should You Spend?
One question that often arises is whether it’s worth investing in an expensive physical backdrop for these calls. The answer to this largely depends on your personal preferences and how frequently you engage in video calls. If you’re a professional who frequently engages in high-stakes meetings, investing in a physical backdrop can create a professional environment and enhance your video call experience. On the other hand, if you’re an occasional user, it may not be worth the expense. A good place to start is at Lencarta.
However, the general price range for these backdrops can vary, starting at around $30 and reaching up to $500 or more. While an expensive backdrop may offer higher quality and features, it may not necessarily be essential for everyone. Ultimately, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and budget before making a purchase decision.
Examples of Professional Backgrounds
When it comes to video calls, a suitable backdrop can make all the difference. Not only does it add aesthetic appeal to your environment, but it can also increase your professionalism and help you stand out.
1. Natural scenery: If you’re lucky enough to have access to a garden, park or beach, use it to your advantage! The natural scenery can create a beautiful aesthetic and gives a calming vibe to your video call.
2. Bookshelf: A bookshelf offers a classic and sophisticated setting for your video calls. It can also be a great conversational starter, and you can even use it to display your favorite books and artifacts.
3. Blank wall: Keep it simple with a blank wall. A solid-colored backdrop can make you stand out more in the foreground, and it won’t distract from your conversation.
4. Tasteful art: If you have some tasteful art pieces, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase them. Colorful or abstract art can add a touch of creativity and personality to your calls.
5. Office setting: If you have a home office, set up your call there. This shows that you take your work seriously and reinforces your professionalism.
Remember, the key is to avoid distracting or cluttered backgrounds as it can be off-putting and disrupt your conversation. Instead, opt for subtle and tasteful backdrops that help to elevate your video call experience.
Conclusion
Your choice of backdrop can affect your brand image, reputation, and even your sales indirectly. For professionals in the remote working world of today, virtual meetings have become a formal setting for business talks. If you’d like to create a professional image for yourself and encourage productivity in people around you, selecting and using the right physical background for video calls is vital. When choosing a backdrop, consider color choices, lighting, location, and personalization. Follow these simple tips, and choose the perfect physical backdrop to make sure your video calls are engaging, polished, and professional.