Have you tried webcam conferencing yet? No? Sometimes email and phone calls aren’t enough. You need to see the speaker. Time to get started with webcam conferencing
Some webcams are still pretty spendy (well over $200) but you can find a lot of good-quality webcams priced from $28-$80. I like the Logitech models and have found them to be easy to use for a good price.
Your choice should definitely be a USB webcam. Installation is easy, and you’ll be ready to go in a snap. My website lists a number of webcam brands/prices for you to review.
Personal Use:
Now, how to get started? The best starting point is with free instant messaging software. If you’re a member of AOL Instant Messenger, Yahoo Messenger, or Windows Live Messenger you already have video integration available. Get one of your friends to practice with you until you’re comfortable with your webcam. It’ll be fun.
Business Use:
Using your webcam for business? Chances are you don’t plan to go down the “video-enabled instant message” route. You’re more likely to integrat with your web conference software’s video streaming features.
I still think you’re best off practicing over instant messaging first, just to make sure you have the hang of your webcam hardware. Then it’s time to practice with your web conferencing software. Worried about the cost of the practice time? Sign up for a free trial with a conferencing vendor and take your webcam for a spin. This article’s resource box has a link pointing you to a full-featured 14-day trial for online web conferencing.
Points to Remember:
You’ll want to speak a tinch more slowly than normal. This is actually a recommendation for all presenters, but is even more relevent in webcam conferencing.
Check out your webcam’s features. Many of them offer real-time enhancement (think: wrinkle-smoothing), lighting adjustments, and other features to improve the image. Use that web conference free trial to practice a bit.
All done? Great. You’re part of the webcam conferencing world. Have fun!