Zoom Client setup

You can use just about any computer that has a camera and microphone.
Most smart phones and tablets will work fine. Laptops and desktops that
have camera and microphone will also work, but they will not be as easy
to move around. You might experiment with different devices to see
which gives you the best result.

If you have never used Zoom before, get someone to send you a Zoom invitation.
In that invitation, click on the "long blue link", probably near the bottom.
That link usually starts something like "https://us02web.zoom.us/j/...."
Follow the instructions that appear. It is usually quite simple and fast.

 

How to set up a room for Zoom

(This also applies to still photography and making videos!)
Try to have a mostly straight line with:
 
        Lights ====> Camera ====> Action    (i.e. your subjects)
              [like a movie director says: "Lights! Camera! Action!"]
 
You may not have control over the placement of all 3, but you almost always have
a choice on where to place the Camera.
 
LIGHTS:
    Lights should be strong but diffuse (not a glaring bulb). Sunlight reflecting off
    walls works well (subjects not looking directly into the sun).
 
CAMERA:
    Most laptop and similar "web cams" have a focus of 3'-6'. Try to adjust the distance
    from camera to subjects so the subjects fill 50%-80% of the frame.
 
ACTION:
    Try to have a non-descript background. Hackers and thieves use books, photos,
    statues, etc. to steal your identity and your property. Don't use a virtual background
    unless you are certain how it works.