Improved Video Conferencing with Digital Cameras

Course details

Video conference calls have replaced many of our in-person meetings. This course is designed to help you improve your appearance and audio online as easily as possible. Instructor Derrick Story explains the advantages of digital cameras over built-in webcams and offers advice on whether or not to use your smartphone as a webcam. He shows you some things to look for in selecting the right camera and lens for you, then explains how you can adjust aperture setting, lighting, and color to look your best. Audio is just as important as video for conference calls, and Derrick steps you through how to select the right mic for your needs and shows how earbuds with mics and AirPods can be reasonable alternatives to USB mics. Creating a background that isn't distracting will help others focus on you and what you are saying. Derrick concludes by giving you useful tips on how to control your background and limit distractions.

Concepts

0. Introduction

01 - Use your digital camera to improve video conferencing

1. Beyond the Webcam

02 - Built-in webcams are for convenience, not quality
03 - Advantages of a digital camera over a built-in webcam
04 - Using a digital camera you already have
05 - Considerations for buying a new camera

2. Connectivity Options for a Digital Camera

06 - Using a video interface device
07 - Webcam software provided by the camera s manufacturer
08 - Third-party software options
09 - Will a smartphone work as a webcam connected to the computer
10 - Pitfalls to look out for
11 - Software is constantly evolving

3. Setting Up Your Camera for Video Conferencing

12 - Camera selection and clean HDMI
13 - Lens selection
14 - Aperture setting and focus control
15 - Lighting for best results
16 - Getting the color right
17 - Testing your setup before an actual conference call

4. Improving Your Audio as Well

18 - Going beyond the built-in computer mic
19 - How to set up a dedicated USB mic
20 - Using non-USB mics
21 - Using your earbuds as a mic
22 - Using AirPods for video conferencing

5. Backgrounds and Environment

23 - Tips for avoiding distracting backgrounds
24 - How much light in the background
25 - Are simulated backgrounds worth using
26 - Configuring your home office for video conferencing
27 - How to deal with distractions and unexpected visitors

Conclusion

28 - Goodbye and next steps