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Virtual Production Tips

This guide will cover some standards for producing the best quality audio and video from home. Not everything on this list will be possible for every presenter, but the more you can apply, the more impactful your message will be.

OPTIMIZE YOUR HOME INTERNET

  • Put your wifi router in "free space", i.e. not in a TV stand or behind the couch
  • Check and tighten all connections on your wi-fi router
  • The ideal upload speed for sharing video and images is 9+ MBPS. You can test your internet at https://www.speedtest.net/. Most homes have 5 or 6 MBPS, but you can increase speeds with some of the tips below.
    • Go wired from your router to your laptop
    • If you must use Wi-Fi, try and use 5GHz
    • Wi-Fi works best 5ft to 8ft from the router
    • Close out other apps on your laptop
    • Turn off other Internet devices around the house, i.e. Tablets, Phones, Video Game Systems, Smart TVs, etc.

PRESENTATION TIPS

  • Be cautious of distracting noises like piles of papers, dogs barking, typing, etc.
  • Choose a quiet space, away from distractions and away from others
  • Consider standing up during your presentation as if presenting on a stage. Or, sit up straight with camera angled head on and at eye level
  • Minimize movement as it can be distracting to the viewer
  • Always look at the camera, not the screen
  • Use computer audio for your main connection
  • If you have material to share (slides, video, pictures, etc), have someone else ready to share in case your computer fails
  • Have your speech and any slides prepared and written in front of you. If possible, use cue cards above your recording device to avoid your eyes looking down too often.
    • Free teleprompter option to run your remarks on a second computer screen:
      • https://telepromptermirror.com/telepromptersoftware.htm
      • https://promptdog.com/
  • Agree on a plan for what will happen if you can't continue
    • Backup presenter on the line
    • Change of topic
    • End the session and promise a recording later
  • Don't draw attention to technical glitches, most viewers won't notice

MAKE THE BEST USE OF SPACE

  • Light from the front to light your whole face
  • Avoid having your back to a window
  • If you wear glasses, move the light or camera until the glare is out of your eyes
  • Turn down the brightness of your monitor to reduce glare
  • Use the best mic setup you have, the below are listed in descending order of best performing
    1. Wireless Phone Headset (Make sure they are fully charged and no other Bluetooth devices are connected)
    2. Wired Earphones
    3. Webcam mic
    4. Laptop mic
  • Clean the lens of your video camera
  • Position the video camera at eye level
    • Use a stack of books to make sure your camera is at the right level
  • If you use your hands a lot when you present, frame the shot to include your hands
  • Depending on the event, think about using a professional looking or virtual background
  • Wear clothes that contrast with your backdrop.
    • Avoid white and super dark colors. Bright colors work well.
    • Go for crisp, textured fabrics; avoid wrinkly or "floppy fabrics"