Virtual backgrounds on Zoom and other video-conferencing platforms often make the person’s head/shoulders pixelate and appear to dissolve to others watching on the video-call. This can be quite distracting! Given that #remotework and #WFH is not ever going away completely, here are some possible solutions:

Do not use fake backgrounds at all. Instead consider:

  • Making sure your lighting is even.
  • Using an uncluttered background.  
  • Adding a few, select knickknacks on a shelf or some books, which can add some nice depth to your video background.
  • Putting a branded banner, sign, or other select piece(s) within the frame of your video camera.
  • Blurring your background (not available on Zoom).

If you are using a fake background, here are some ways to optimize your use of them from video expert Rob Kates from Kates Media:

  • Check that your computer has the right specifications for the video platform you are using. For Zoom, check here – https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/360043484511-System-requirements-for-Virtual-Background.
  • Check your lighting.  Even lighting is best.
  • Check your webcam’s software settings.
  • Check your bandwidth: 10Mbps upload and 5Mbps download.
  • If the videocam on your computer does not meet the above specs, consider investing in a new one that can be plugged in.
  • Use a green screen. But make sure there is even lighting on it.

For more tips on how to optimize the use of videocams, check out these free tutorials by Nancy Myrland from Myrland Marketing: