Tips for those appearing on Zoom 
(compiled from a variety of sources)

1. VISUAL:  

1. Lighting – Strive for even, steady lighting.  If available, put yourself in front of a window - the camera will adjust for the window brightness and you will be visually clear.  If a very sunny spot, you might need to put your shades down slightly to keep from being over-exposed.  Walk around your house/room and where the video on your computer or phone looks the best, that’s where you should put your Zoom meeting spot! 
   If you're outdoors, remember that the sky is going to be brighter than anything else in the image. It's generally best to be in open shade with a building behind you. Avoid putting trees or foliage behind you if there's any breeze or wind, as their movement will cause problems with the image.
   
   
2. Adjust the camera down so that your eyes are about one-third of the way down from the top of image. "Eye to eye contact is the best connection." Look at that camera directly, straight ahead.  How to do that when the webcam is physically below your eye? Stack a bunch of books under your laptop or phone until you see the webcam eye to eye. 
    
3. Background - Be aware of what's visible behind you.  Distractions or privacy concerns should be considered. If you have to, Zoom has a "virtual background" that will obscure most of what's behind you if you need it to.  Just be aware that it frequently causes a "halo" effect around your head that can be distracting. Good lighting will help with this.

2. AUDIO:

1. When picking a place to Zoom, be aware of ambient noise around you (dogs barking, loud air conditioning, phones ringing, kids watching TV, etc.) and avoid them as much as possible.  If you cannot control these sounds, just mute yourself unless you are speaking.
   
   
2. Don’t be so far away from your device that your voice is not picked up easily by your microphone. 
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3. If you like to gesture, do NOT wear bangles or jewelry that makes noise.