AS THIS pandemic forced our meetings, hangouts and e-numans to go digital, we are starting to accept that even though the best get-togethers don't happen in video conferences, it is the best and safest space to get together. So let's keep it that way.
Thus, on behalf of everyone on the other end of your screen: Please pause before slyly taking screenshots of your gang's quarantine hangs.
This might be an unpopular opinion, but all over social media—from Instagram stories to LinkedIn—folks are showcasing screenshots of their video calls. And these photos aren’t always, well, the best. And I know, I know: We have distinct descriptions of what a “good” photo is, and some truly might care less if you post a screenshot of them when they're in the middle of their sumptuous-quarantine meal. But while a snap of my unwashed face isn't viral yet, let's talk about some guidelines.
1. Give everyone on the call a heads-up: Yes. asking first might ruin the humorous, unscripted, candid vibe, but it gives everyone a chance to smile, push back their hair, smooth out their eyebrows, and put on some lip tint (whatever that is) if they opt to. I mean do we not deserve that much in these stressful times?
2. Avoid tagging friends in awful screenshots: We’re not new to this! Just like you wouldn’t have wanted to be tagged in a terrible Facebook photo back in 2005, your entire feed doesn’t need to see your couch potato buddy in pajamas.
3. If you can’t resist the awkward snap, don’t post it without permission: You might catch sight of yourself in the right flash of light while video chatting and realize that you look like a legit IG influencer who does glossier tutorials. But the thing is, one person’s endearing photo-moment might just be a bad picture of someone else. So vibe-check with the folks in the photo before uploading, and, if someone is less than enthused, this particular screenshot is just for your vault. #RespectIsTheKey as the hashtag says.
PS. Not all video conference calls are created equal. Thus, your outfits and looks should match the expectations of your audiences. So, if it’s just your family and friends, you could probably get away with your comfiest sweatpants/T-shirt combo. But with your colleagues, it’s probably best to adhere to your company’s dress and grooming code, at least from the waist up.
Stay active until our next chat!