When it comes to video calls, excessive glare on your glasses can be a nuisance. While it's impossible to completely eliminate reflections, especially if you're not wearing fashion frames or in a professional video production studio, there are some proven tips that can help minimize the issue.
These tips have been compiled from advice given by eyeglass manufacturers, television studio directors, and my own personal observations.
1. Upgrade your lighting setup
Consider replacing ring lights or halo lights with LED panels that have diffusers. Ring lights tend to cast shadows and produce noticeable reflections on glasses or other reflective surfaces. Dimmable LED panel lights emit softer light that reduces the visibility of reflections. Another option is using a Softbox lighting kit which provides affordable studio-quality lighting at home.
2. Adjust the angle of your light source
Understanding how light reflects off surfaces is crucial in reducing glare during video calls. Try positioning your light source above head height and angled towards the sides of your face. If you're dealing with sunlight coming through a window, consider lowering shades or blocking the incoming light with cardboard.
3. Dim your computer display screen
Computer screens often contribute to glare issues, especially when working at night. Lower the brightness of your display screen or attach an anti-glare monitor filter to reduce glare effects. Additionally, increase ambient room lighting during nighttime video conferences as this helps offset the intensity of both computer screen and conferencing lighting glares.
4. Adjust chin position and tilt glasses
Avoid looking directly at bright sources of light during video calls by slightly lowering your chin while maintaining eye-level contact with the camera lens. You can also lift the earpieces (temples) of your glasses slightly to change their angle relative to the light source.
5.Use caution with blue-light blocking glasses
Although blue-light blocking lenses provide benefits for eye strain and long-term eye health, they may not be the best choice for video conferences. These lenses tend to reflect a gray or blue tint on camera, potentially affecting your appearance. Consider using them outside of video calls for optimal eye protection.
6. Explore anti-glare lens technology
Some eyeglass manufacturers offer advanced non-glare technology that helps reduce reflections during video calls. Anti-reflective (AR) coatings can be applied to both new glasses and existing ones. However, it's important to note that this technology is relatively new in the context of video conferencing. Keep an eye out for updates as I plan to explore these options further and provide an update in a future article.
7. Practice and consider contact lenses
Achieving your best look on a video call requires practice and experimentation with different lighting setups. Record yourself in various configurations to determine what works best for you. If you're still struggling with glare issues despite trying different techniques, it might be worth considering switching to contact lenses as an alternative solution.
By following these simple tips, you can significantly reduce glare on your glasses during video conferences and present yourself in the best possible light.
