It seams like we're all spending most of our time on Zoom calls these days. We're speaking to family, friends, co-workers, doctors -- you name it! It's easy to make ourselves look put together (I'm looking at you "button down with pajama pants") but how do we make our home look put together and ready to make its best impression? You know you're judging everyone else by the tiniest glimpses we can get into their homes so you better believe they're judging you! Here are a few quick and easy ways to make sure your home is putting its best foot forward:
Natural and Ambient Light
Try your best to avoid an area that receives too much direct sunlight. A large area that receives natural light filtered in during the daytime is best. If you can help it, try to move away from windows that can create strange shadows with too many distracting light and dark areas.
At nigh time, be sure to place a lamp in front of the camera to create the best ambient lighting situation so people and see your face and surroundings. If you have a light on behind you, make sure you can't directly see the light bulb. The only lighting is overhead? Then make sure you aren't positioned directly underneath so your face, as well as your room, are lit as well as they can possibly be.
Neutral Colors
Areas that make the most appealing backgrounds should consist entirely of neutral colors and soft textures. Your daughter's pink playroom or your zebra print bedspread are not great choices of location. Light and bright is best.
Avoid Distractions
Mirrors and artwork with glass in the front of the frame are a big no-no as they create a blinding glare and reflect any natural or ambient lighting. Move anything that is cluttered out of the frame. Put away laundry, piles of magazines, stacks of board games in favor of a shot with that special artwork you picked up on your vacation that one summer.
Make It Personal
Don't be afraid to show off a small amount of your home (instead of that plain white wall). A styled bookcase wall, plant on a table or artwork hanging on the wall are all great ways to show your style in a professional way. Still can't find a great location? Removable wallpaper is an amazing way to dress up your plain walls and create an area as unique as you! Just be sure to keep the pattern simple, in a neutral color, and not distracting.
If all else fails, you can download one of my free virtual backdrops below.
