Group Video Call Tips

Pick the right app

• FaceTime — best if everyone has iPhone/iPad. Up to 32 people. Free.
• Zoom — best mixed-device. Free 40-minute calls, unlimited 1-on-1. Best for big groups.
• Google Meet — free, works in browser. Up to 100 people for 1 hour free.
• WhatsApp — up to 32 people. Best if family lives overseas.
• Facebook Messenger — up to 50 people. Best if family already on Facebook.

Lighting

• Sit FACING a window. Light on your face = clear video.
• Don't sit with window BEHIND you — backlit silhouette.
• If no window — table lamp pointed at face, not at ceiling.
• $15 ring light for phones is a game changer.

Hearing better

• Wired headphones or AirPods improve audio dramatically.
• Cut down background noise — TV off, fan off, AC off.
• iPhone Live Captions (Settings → Accessibility) — auto subtitles for every call.
• Zoom has built-in captions — turn on "Show Captions" during call.

Camera angle

• Phone propped UP at eye level. Not in your lap.
• Pile of books or a phone stand ($10) works fine.
• Looking down into phone shows ceiling and chin. Not flattering.
• iPad on a kitchen counter at standing height works great.

Group call etiquette

• Mute when not speaking — kills background noise. Tap mic icon.
• Have a "host" who picks who speaks (avoids talking over each other).
• "Speaker view" shows whoever is talking large. Easier to follow.
• Take turns — each person talks for 60 seconds, then passes to next.
• If kids/grandkids on call — keep it under 45 minutes.

Schedule a recurring call

Pick the same day & time every week. Sunday 4 PM. Wednesday 7 PM. Whatever. Recurring beats "let's plan one" — that one rarely happens. Send a calendar invite to family. Auto-reminders.