Virtual background for video conferencing. Color block pattern. Blocks of different sizes. Template for courses or webinars.
We recently met with a client virtually. His background was a white field with product logos that his company manufactures. The depth of products was impressive, yet each time our client moved his head, his outline blurred and odd images behind him popped in and out of the frame.
Going forward, communication will be a hybrid of virtual and live. When virtual, we recommend you adopt techniques from the Entertainment Industry. Whatever is behind you is in a dominant visual position, so don’t allow it to upstage you.
You carry the most important message—not your background or PowerPoint. Defer to a simple background. Avoid anything ‘growing out of your head’ (like a ceiling fan), harsh side lighting, or too many elements to draw our attention including books, art, or certificates of achievement. A beige-colored wall or uncluttered office setting work quite well.
And until Zoom, Microsoft Teams, etc. come up with a better solution for motion blur on green screens, we recommend avoiding their use. Once you decide where you want to direct the audience’s eyeballs, the background should only enhance you. Less is more.