Better Video Conferencing Tips: Part 2

Show Notes

• 6:15 — What to do about background noise including an AI-based software solution that cancels background sounds and a pro-level solution that uses audio hardware to block unwanted sounds.
• 11:31 — Why it’s important to pay attention to keeping your face centered in your webcam.
• 13:00 — Tailoring your backdrop so you look professional.
• 14:55 — Ian suggests using software or a good camera lens to blur your background.
• 17:19 — Green screen solutions for less than $10.
• 18:24 — How kids are using custom backgrounds to trick teachers into thinking that they are paying attention in virtual class.
• 19:49 — Picking a good router to ensure that you have adequate bandwidth to stream good quality video.
• 24:18 — How to get the most out of the software you use to connect with others.
• 29:29 — Maintaining a sense of presence while engaging with others via a video call.
• 32:10 — Gaze correction software.
• 33:19 — Darren shares his experience with video conferencing with friends and family using the Facebook Portal TV.
• 34:17 — The etiquette of using the mute button.
• 37:15 — The etiquette of activating your video versus broadcasting in the dark.
• 40:01 — Several nice things you can do as a participant to make a video conference more pleasant and productive for everyone involved.
• 45:59 — Tips for business-focused video conferences including recording calls for those who cannot attend.
• 54:00 — Ian gets inspired by the Fraiser sitcom. 😁
• 55:01 — Zoom fatigue and how to recover from it.
• 58:55 — March discusses his experience using virtual reality for some of his video conferences with his friends.
• 1:01:30 — Darren shares some ideas for things you can do to mix up your video calls with family and friends including cooking together, virtual poker, and a virtual wine or spirit tastings.
• 1:04:55 — Ian, Darren, and March invent a new video conferencing game based on Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon.

Mentions

• 📦 Product: TP-Link Archer 20 wireless router
• 📦 Product: Eero Pro + 2 Eero Beacons
• 📰 Article: How to make a cheap green screen
• 📦 Product: Netflix Together Chrome extension
• 📰 Article: Table quiz (100 questions to get your started)
• 📰 Website: Roll20
• 📰 Website: Tabletopia
• 📰 Article: Best Use of Zoom Goes to Katie Nolan
• 📦 Product: Surface Pro X gaze correction
• 📦 Product: iOS 13 gaze correction