Setup

A good setup is about control, not expense.

Lighting, audio and a clean background beat an expensive camera every time. This guide teaches good presentation without ever being explicit.

The priorities, in order

1. Lighting — the single biggest quality upgrade. Soft, even light from the front; avoid harsh overhead shadows.
2. Audio — viewers forgive video, not bad sound. A simple USB mic beats a built-in laptop mic.
3. Background — clean, consistent and privacy-safe (see background privacy).
4. Camera — a recent phone or 1080p webcam is plenty to start.
5. Internet — stable upload matters more than raw speed. See the streaming readiness check.

Camera placement

• Eye level or slightly above — not looking up your nose.
• Leave headroom; keep the camera stable (tripod or mount).
• Frame yourself against your controlled background, not an open room.

Lighting basics

• One key light (ring light or softbox) slightly off-center.
• Soft, diffused light reduces harsh shadows and is flattering.
• Consistency matters more than intensity — set it once and leave it.

Audio

• A USB microphone close to you, in a quiet room.
• Soft surfaces (rugs, curtains) reduce echo.

Privacy and device security in the studio

• Cover or angle away from windows; close curtains during shoots.
• Log out of work accounts when not working; lock devices with passcodes.
• Keep personal devices out of the frame and off the work network where practical.
• Store content on a dedicated work storage account, not personal photo libraries.