Room Light & Sound

It is important to get the light and sound levels right for a video conference. Most cameras and microphones can be adjusted to tweak the performance but it is still more sensible to get it right through proper planning than by troubleshooting.

The focus of a video image is normally on a person's face. It is best therefore to consider the following points:

  • Choose a uniform, neutral background that is darker than normal skin tone. A blue curtain or similar is a good way of removing distracting background.
  • Try to get good lighting on the presenter's face. Daylight or normal room lighting will usually suffice but ensure that it is constant and watch out for flickering fluorescent tubes for example.
  • Aim for a uniform light and avoid high contrast bright lights and deep shadow.

There are also sound considerations when planning a conference:

  • Find a room away from loud noise sources such as dining halls, sports halls and playgrounds.
  • Remember that the noise levels may vary at different points in the school timetable
  • Carpets and curtains can help reduce echo off solid walls and floors