Zoom Technical Checklist to Get You "TV Ready"
The following article and checklist will get you “TV Ready” for your next Zoom conference, meeting, or event!
First we cover nine easy steps to ensure you’re TV ready.
After that, we provide our top recommendations of hardware you want on hand to have a TV-quality Zoom production.
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, we will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase. We never recommend a product we don’t use or have tested ourselves.
Zoom Technical Checklist Step-by-Step
Step 1: Use a laptop or desktop computer.
When you are going to be speaking at a Zoom meeting or event, it’s best if you can use a laptop or desktop computer.
Avoid using your cellphone or tablet, as you won’t see all the spotlighting and the chat is difficult to find.
Step 2: Download the latest version of Zoom software.
Make sure you have the latest version of Zoom on your computer or laptop.
To ensure you have the latest version, click on the following link that will take you directly to Zoom Support: https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362233-Upgrade-update-to-the-latest-version
Step 3: Ensure your internet signal is strong.
Broadband speed is very important. It can make or break a Zoom call.
If you’re using WiFi:
Be as close to your WiFi router as possible for a strong signal or get a good mesh system for your home like this Eero 6 Dual-Band Mesh WiFi Smart Home Hub so you have strong internet all through the house.
If you’re using ethernet:
When possible, plugging directly into your internet router via Ethernet is a better option than WiFi.
You can buy different lengths but usually, you won’t need more than 25ft.
Our favorite is the 25-foot Mediabridge Ethernet Cable also available in 15-foot.
You can connect one end of the Ethernet cable directly to your internet router and the other end to your computer or laptop.
Step 4: Check your audio.
Below are four critical tips to ensure your audio is of the highest quality possible.
Tip 1: AVOID USING THE MIC ON YOUR LAPTOP
Please DO NOT USE the microphone built into your laptop or computer.
It will be difficult to hear you, as the microphone picks up a lot of ambient noise and can lead to distortion.
Tip 2: BUY A GOOD MICROPHONE
Buy a good solid microphone that can sit on your desk.
If you don’t want to do that, then use a headset.
We have some great recommendations below.
TIP 3: USE A HEADSET IF YOU DON’T WANT A MICROPHONE
An alternative option is to use a headset or microphone that is plugged into the computer or laptop you will use Zoom on.
TIP 4: BE AWARE OF NOISE FROM A HEADSET
If you use a headset with a microphone, make sure it is not scraping your hair or clothing. Also, create a single knit to lift the mic up and away from your clothing and closer to your mouth.
Step 5: The position of your eyes to the camera is critical.
It’s very important that the camera on your computer or laptop is at eye level and not looking up your nose or down on your head.
To prevent this, position your computer so that your eyeline is directly at the camera.
Place your laptop on books or a stand to ensure that you are looking directly at the camera when seated or standing.
If you have a computer older than 2 years you may want to consider buying an HD camera to attach to the top.
We have some great recommendations below for high-quality and affordable webcams.
Step 6: Choose a simple background that doesn’t distract viewers.
When possible, have a blank wall behind you for a Zoom call or meeting.
Avoid having windows in the background.
If this isn’t possible, have minimal distractions behind you, such as simple wall art or a bookcase.
If the room where you’re participating in the Zoom call is distracting, consider blurring your background or using a virtual background.
You can customize your background under Video Settings - Backgrounds and Effects.
Customizing your background is as easy as 1, 2, 3…
1. Click the ^ next to the Video icon at the bottom of your screen.
2. Click “Choose Virtual Background”.
3. Choose “Background & Effects”.
4. Choose your virtual background or upload your own.
Step 7: Lighting on your face is important.
To have proper lighting, position yourself to have a light source in front of you.
A lamp, ring light, or small LED lights work best.
Your face should be slightly brighter than your background.
Step 8: Position yourself in the Zoom frame.
Position yourself in the Zoom frame with 1 inch of space above your head and the bottom of the frame at chest level.
You should look the same in the frame either sitting or standing.
Step 9: Be aware of possible audio delay.
Zoom can sometimes have a very slight audio delay.
Wait a moment when speaking with someone in order to not cut them off prematurely.
TV Ready Recommended Hardware for Zoom
Now that you have the nine basic steps to be “TV Ready” for your next Zoom webinar or meeting, we want to provide you with our tried-and-true hardware recommendations.
The Jumpwire Media team has personally tried and tested each of these products and use them daily.
Headsets and Microphones
GOOD OPTION
Apple EarPods Headphones with 3.5mm Plug -
Buy Here: https://amzn.to/3PbUYgT
These headphones have an amazing microphone that picks up your voice well.
Apple EarPods feature surprisingly strong audio intake and output, while being reasonably priced.
They are an excellent option for traveling and on-the-go meetings where you require quality audio.
If using this design, be sure to tie a loose knot on the microphone side to lift the mic up closer to your mouth and away from clothing or long hair.
TONOR USB Microphone with Tripod Stand and Pop Filter
Buy here: https://amzn.to/3uBPeoJ
BETTER OPTION
If you do a lot of Zoom calls, we recommend this microphone for clarity.
It can be a bit roomy but people will be able to hear you clearly and you will have better Zoom meetings.
It conveys a serious presentation style while remaining an affordable option with quality audio.
The set-up also comes complete with a pop filter, which aids in muffling hard consonants, such a B, P, or T.
BEST OPTION
Yeti USB Microphone
Buy here: https://amzn.to/3I2t4BI
This is the microphone many of the Jumpwire Media team use daily and we recommend to all of our clients for its superior sound quality, adjustable design, and reliability.
The built-in stand works well on any flat surface and is easy to maneuver.
It comes with a built-in mute button, so you can quickly adjust for that sneeze or cough.
And, it has great sound quality, even at a distance.
Lighting
10” Selfie Ring Light with Tripod Stand and Phone Holder
Buy here: https://amzn.to/3uJ0rUE
GOOD OPTION
Using a ring light such as this one can make a large impact on your lighting during a Zoom call or meeting.
Simply set up the ring light behind your computer or laptop, placing it slightly above eye level.
It also works as a phone stand to take video recordings, along with a built-in tripod.
BETTER OPTION
Neewer 2-Pack Dimmable USB LED Video Light
Buy here: https://amzn.to/3uekGZU
If you’re looking for some fancy features without spending a fortune, this Neewer light kit is a great option.
With tripod stands included, you can place these lights on each side of your computer or laptop to give you full lighting.
Each light is adjustable 180 degrees and has up to 4 feet of height adjustment.
There are also four different color filters to choose from, including red, blue, yellow, and white.
Both lights are dimmable, allowing for custom lighting selections.
BEST OPTION
Neewer Dimmable Bi-Color LED 2-Pack
Buy here: https://amzn.to/3OvipSm
If you want the best lighting option possible or need a very tall light kit, this LED light kit is high-end and won’t disappoint.
It has incredible studio-quality performance with ranging color temperatures for customizing your lighting options.
Each light box comes with a tripod stand that can extend up to 75 inches (over 6 feet).
Soft box diffusers are also included to remove shadows and glare.
Green Screens for Virtual Backgrounds
Prymall Pop Up Green Screen Chair Attachment
Buy here: https://amzn.to/3awDhKa
GOOD OPTION
If you want a green screen that is easy to set-up, portable, and under $50 USD, then consider a chair attachment such as this.
They come in two sizes - 50” or 60” and easy slip over the back of your office or work chair.
Ideal for small spaces or when you need to use a virtual background occasionally.
Neewer Collapsible Chromakey Backdrop
Buy here: https://amzn.to/3yZiSH1
BETTER OPTION
This green screen backdrop is versatile and easy to set up, with the added option of a blue background.
The screen itself is an adequate size at 5’ x 7’.
It can be used horizontally, vertically, or even mounted to a wall.
The set up is lightweight and comes with a carrying case for storage or transport.
ALTERNATIVE OPTION
Green Screen Curtain Set-Up
This is specific green screen backdrop, you require three essential components: a wire rod, curtain clips, and a green photography screen.
A curtain backdrop is ideal in a room where you’d like to eliminate the background.
It can easily be pushed aside when not in use and can provide full coverage for virtual backgrounds.
You will need each of the following:
Curtain Drape Wire Rod Set
Buy here: https://amzn.to/3OkQMdG
25 Pack Curtain Clips
Buy here: https://amzn.to/3Pzt52k
10 x 20 feet Green Photography Screen
Buy here: https://amzn.to/3PlAZge
Adjustable Desks
VariDesk Pro Plus 48 – Height Adjustable Standing Desk Converter – Sit Stand Riser for Dual Monitors
Buy here: https://amzn.to/3yRRDgy
To overcome Zoom and meeting fatigue, we recommend a standing desk to help stay focused.
Our recommended adjustable desk fits on top of any existing desk or table.
This option moves up and down quickly and can easily fit dual screens and a laptop in the middle for three screens, when required.