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We all wish we could turn our camera off on Zoom meetings sometimes, but unfortunately, that’s not always an option. In lieu of hiding behind the little black box, boost your confidence by looking your best on a Zoom call. Zoom meetings are some of the only social interactions we’re getting these days, so you might as well dress up for the occasion. Here are six top tips for how to look good on Zoom calls.

How to look good on Zoom: 6 tips and tricks

Use these tips and tricks to look fabulous on your next Zoom meeting or chat with friends.

1. Prioritize poise over PJs

Zoom conference calls are the new in-person meetings, which is just one reason you should get ready every day as though you are going into the office.

When you pick out your clothes, think about what colors look good on a screen. Bright, solid colors tend to pop the most, whereas patterns can be distracting and pastels or neutral shades can wash you out.

If you’re putting on makeup, consider checking it in your laptop camera in addition to your mirror. Although your makeup might look great in person, it could look different on a screen. By using the camera your colleagues and clients will see you through, you can better predict how to look good on Zoom.

Unfortunately, the unforgiving built-in laptop camera and harsh screen lighting can magnify any blemishes or glares from shiny skin. If you’re worried about either, take some time to blot your face and apply tinted moisturizer or foundation. This will help even out your skin tone in preparation for tinted or unflattering lighting.

2. Use the “touch up my appearance” setting

Zoom also offers a “touch up my appearance” button in the settings that will smooth any blemishes and brighten up your features. This is an easy, automatic way to look good on Zoom with little to no effort on your part.

how to look good on zoom

3. Stick to natural lighting

Lighting is everything when it comes to looking good on Zoom. The most important thing is to sit with your light source in front of you, facing your way. If the light is behind you, you will be backlit and will appear as a silhouette. Side lighting will also emphasize shadows and glares.

Natural light from a window tends to be the most flattering. It brightens up shadows, reduces shine, and spreads evenly across your face.

If you don’t have access to natural lighting or are meeting at night or early in the morning, you can buy an affordable clip-on light or ring light (see our top recommendations below).

4. Don’t forget about your background

Your face isn’t the only thing people see during Zoom meetings. They’ll also likely get a glimpse into your home office or personal space.

A designed background will provide greater comfort and control over how to look good on Zoom. Alongside natural lighting, the background should enhance, not detract, from what you’re saying.

A clean, neutral background will make sure all the focus remains on you. Simple props like plants or small pieces of art can also work well. As long as both the sound and space are quiet, you will look and feel more professional and focused.

5. Angle your laptop just right

Laptop cameras are generally wide-angle, which can distort your features if you stand too close. A good rule of thumb is to keep an arm’s length between you and the screen.

Aim to have your face centered on the screen so that all of your features are visible. Put the camera at eye level or slightly above to avoid creating a double chin effect or a straight shot of your forehead.

Make sure you have a flat, clean surface, such as a desk or table, to set your laptop on to avoid any shaking, tilting, or sliding of the camera.

6. Use a ring light or webcam

If you want to look really good on Zoom, you can up the ante with a ring light or external webcam. These products will give you a studio-quality image and lighting for a low price.