We've all been there. The 9 AM video call. You've been awake for 12 minutes. Your hair is doing something unprecedented. Below the camera frame, you're wearing pajama pants with little biscuits on them. Above the frame, you need to look like a competent professional. Here's how to pull it off.
Lighting Is Everything
Natural light facing you is ideal. If that's not possible, a desk lamp positioned behind your laptop, shining toward your face, works wonders. Never sit with a window behind you — you'll look like you're in witness protection.
Quick Fix
The "Work Mullet" Wardrobe
Business on top, party on the bottom. A solid-colored shirt or sweater is your best friend. Avoid busy patterns — they look weird on camera. Keep a "Zoom shirt" draped over your chair. No one will ever know you're wearing it for the third time this week.
Remote Work Reality Check
Background Matters
You don't need a perfect backdrop. Just make sure there's nothing behind you that you wouldn't want your boss to see. A blank wall is fine. A bookshelf makes you look thoughtful. A pile of laundry makes you look like you have a pile of laundry.
Camera Position
Raise your laptop so the camera is at eye level or slightly above. Looking down at the camera gives you a double chin. Looking up at the camera makes you look like a villain in a spy movie. Eye level is the sweet spot.
Kelley's Take
