How to Light Yourself for Video Calls Using Your Screen

Good light matters more than a good camera. In a dim room, a bright screen near your camera is a free way to even out your face.

Face the light

The most important rule is to put the light in front of you. A bright window or lamp behind you makes your face dark, because the camera adjusts for the brightest part of the picture.

Use a second screen

If you light yourself with the same screen that shows the call, your call window disappears in fullscreen. A phone, tablet or second monitor works better. Open Zoom Lighting, press F, and place it just beside or behind your camera.

Brightness and color

• Start around 5000K and 90% brightness for a neutral look.
• If your skin looks too pale, lower the warmth slider for a warmer light.
• If it looks orange, raise the warmth for a cooler, whiter light.
• Keep your own screen brightness high. A bigger screen gives softer light.

Placement

• Put the light slightly above eye level, near the camera.
• Avoid hard side shadows by keeping the light close to straight ahead.
• If you wear glasses and see a reflection, move the light slightly to the side.

Quick checks

Look at your own video before the call. Your face should be brighter than the background, with no strong shadows. If the light is too harsh, lower brightness or move the screen back.