Essential Video Conferencing Lighting Tips to Look Great on Calls

In today’s era of remote work and virtual meetups, finding the perfect lighting for your video conferencing setup has become a matter of making a strong first impression. Whether you’re a CEO presenting to stakeholders, a consultant weaving pitches, or a real estate agent showcasing properties, the right lighting can be the missing piece that elevates your video presence and sets you apart from the competition.

However, with so many video conferencing lighting options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. From ring lights to LED panels, the choices can seem overwhelming. In this post, we’ll explore the best video conferencing lighting solutions for 2024, helping you create a professional and engaging virtual presence that leaves a lasting impact on your audience.

The Best Video Conferencing Lighting in 2024

Unflattering lighting can be the biggest downfall of even the most well-prepared video calls, leaving you looking tired and washed out.

Whatever the occasion, you want to shine during a video conference. It could be a meeting with a potential client, your boss, or a new business partner. To help you look and feel professional, we’ve rounded up the best lighting for video conferencing and some simple tips to follow.

Types of Video Conferencing Lights

Made to light up online discussions, ring lights join the legion of tools making virtual meetings more enjoyable. Burring irrelevant lighting concerns, they thrive in situations where participants face unpredictable lighting situations.

Brightening our worlds with incredible adjustability, LED panels merge stunning color temperatures with a customizable brightness, creating extraordinary lighting experiences. For more fleeting lighting demands, innovative light bars like the Hioume excel.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Video Conferencing Lighting

Let’s talk about lighting for video conferencing – a crucial aspect that’s often overlooked. Proper lighting can elevate your on-camera presence and minimize distracting shadows. Try repositioning lamps or using a ring light to bounce excess light and create a softer glow.

1. Light color: Choose a light with a color temperature around 5000K-6000K for a natural, daylight-like appearance that complements most skin tones.
2. Brightness: Ensure the light is bright enough to illuminate your face evenly without washing you out or creating harsh shadows.
3. Adjustability: Look for lights with adjustable brightness and color temperature settings to adapt to different environments and preferences.
4. Portability: If you need to move your setup frequently, consider lightweight, compact options like ring lights or light bars.
5. Compatibility: Make sure the light is compatible with your existing setup, such as your computer or mobile device, and has the necessary power and connectivity options.

Setting Up Your Video Conferencing Lighting

A professional video conferencing experience starts with the right lighting. Take the first step by learning how to optimize your conferencing light for a distraction-free call.

1. Position the light slightly above eye level and angled down towards your face at a 45-degree angle for the most flattering illumination.
2. If using a single light source, place it directly in front of you to minimize shadows. For a more advanced setup, consider using multiple lights in a three-point lighting arrangement.
3. Adjust the brightness and color temperature settings to create a soft, even light that complements your skin tone and environment.
4. Experiment with different placements and settings to find the most flattering arrangement for your unique setup.

Top 7 Video Conferencing Lights for Professional Meetings

1. Lume Cube Video Conferencing Kit: This versatile kit includes a powerful LED light with adjustable brightness and color temperature, along with a flexible suction cup mount for easy attachment to various surfaces.
2. Logitech Litra Glow: A premium LED streaming light with adjustable brightness and color temperature, featuring a compact design and USB-C connectivity for easy integration with your setup.
3. Neewer MS60C: A powerful, portable video LED with RGB color options, adjustable brightness, and compatibility with both battery and mains power for maximum flexibility.
4. Elgato Key Light Air: A professional-grade LED panel with adjustable brightness, color temperature, and wireless control via the Elgato Control Center app.
5. GVM Great Video Maker RGB Video Light: An RGB LED light with adjustable brightness, color temperature, and hue, offering a wide range of creative lighting options for your video conferences.
6. Hioume Light Bar: A compact, versatile light bar with adjustable brightness and color temperature, perfect for small spaces or on-the-go lighting setups.
7. Rotolight Ultimate Vlogging Kit: A comprehensive lighting kit featuring the Rotolight NEO 2, a powerful LED light with adjustable brightness, color temperature, and special effects, along with a range of accessories for professional-quality video conferencing.

How to Achieve the Perfect Video Conferencing Lighting

Mastering the art of video calls requires attention to detail, and that starts with perfect lighting. So, how can you set up your lighting for a conference call or a virtual meeting to avoid those harsh shadows and glaring flash? Follow these simple tips to ensure you look your best and your guests are fully engaged in the conversation.

1. Position your light source slightly above eye level and angled down towards your face at a 45-degree angle for the most flattering illumination.
2. Use a light with a color temperature around 5000K-6000K to create a natural, daylight-like appearance that complements most skin tones.
3. Ensure the light is bright enough to evenly illuminate your face without washing you out or creating harsh shadows. Adjust the brightness as needed to find the perfect balance.
4. If possible, use natural light from a window as a secondary light source to add depth and dimension to your lighting setup. Position yourself facing the window for the best results.
5. Avoid sitting with your back to a window or bright light source, as this can create a harsh silhouette effect and make it difficult for others to see your face clearly.
6. Experiment with different lighting placements and settings to find the most flattering arrangement for your unique setup and environment.

Mastering the Art of Video Conferencing Lighting

The right lighting can make all the difference in your online meetings. Proper placement of lamps, deskside illuminators, and other light sources is crucial to create a setting where participants feel comfortable and focused.

1. Use a three-point lighting setup for a professional, polished look. This involves using a key light as your main light source, a fill light to soften shadows, and a backlight to separate you from the background.
2. Experiment with different color temperatures and hues to create a unique and engaging visual atmosphere. Adjust the settings on your RGB LED light to find the perfect combination for your brand or personal style.
3. Incorporate practical effects, such as a catchlight or hair light, to add depth and dimension to your lighting setup. A small, focused light positioned above and behind you can create a subtle glow around your head and shoulders, making you appear more vibrant and engaging on camera.
4. Invest in high-quality, adjustable lighting equipment to ensure consistent results across different environments and setups. Look for lights with a wide range of brightness and color temperature settings, as well as reliable power and connectivity options like USB ports.
5. Continuously assess and refine your lighting setup based on feedback from others and your own observations. Pay attention to how your lighting appears on different devices and platforms, and make adjustments as needed to ensure the best possible results for your zoom calls and virtual meetings.

Key Takeaway:

Just like a portrait photographer sculpts with light, position your video conferencing light slightly above eye level and angled down towards your face at a 45-degree angle to create a naturally flattering, daylight-like illumination that accentuates your features and commands attention.

Conclusion

Video conferencing lighting is no longer a luxury but a necessity in today’s digital world. By investing in the right lighting setup, you can elevate your virtual presence, captivate your audience, and leave a lasting impression. Whether you opt for a versatile ring light, a powerful LED panel, or a compact light bar, the key is to find a solution that fits your specific needs and budget.

In the virtual world, lighting can make or break a first impression. By carefully considering the lighting in a video conferencing setup, professionals can elevate their appearance, increase their confidence, and communicate more effectively with others.

So, take the time to explore the various video conferencing lighting options available, experiment with different setups, and find the perfect solution for your unique needs. With the right lighting on your side, you’ll be ready to shine in every virtual meeting, presentation, and video call that comes your way.