Webcam Quality, 2011 vs 2017

[A_ardvark]

Hi!

I have a Skype job interview next Wednesday. I'm currently using a 2011 Macbook Pro, but I was wondering if the newer models have a significantly better webcam. It's going to be a longer interview with a teaching demo, so I want to make sure the audio / video is as good as possible for the interview.

Other options I could use are my iPhone 8 or iPad air, but this seems a bit gimmicky.

Thanks!

 

[Ma2k5]

The webcams on even the new MacBook Pro's are not good. Use whatever alternatives you can.

 

[estabya]

I would suggest purchasing an external web cam. Some pretty high quality ones can be had for less than $50.

 

[leman]

Use the iPad, nothing gimmicky about that. They probably won't even notice...

 

[jerryk]

As important as the quality of the web came is the position of the camera.

Ensure it is at eye level so you are looking directly at the person you are speaking to. They really do not want to see your nose hair, and if you look off to the side when the cameras is below your eye line you look "shifty".

So put your laptop on a box or books to get it up. Also, put a lamp (or other light source) off to the side to illuminate your face with some side light to give it some depth.

If you do go with an external webcam use a tripod or other stand to get it to eye level.

Finally, make sure the space you are in is quiet and does not have a lot of distracting background items, traffic, crazy posters, clutter, etc.

And before you get online, spend a time in Skype checking out what image you are sending out looks like, and how you sound.

Best of luck on your interview.