Zoom was originally designed for webcams and smartphones. While this approach is convenient for internal meetings, the presentation quality leaves much to be desired, especially when presenting to stake holders and potential clients. Cornerstone chose this event to be Hybrid style, with both an on-premise and online audience. With the right combination of production equipment and backend settings on Zoom you can produce the same quality results for your organization.
This is how we did it:
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Add a Zoom Webinar License - The first prerequisite is to have a Zoom Pro, Business, or Enterprise account. From there you can add a webinar license. Pricing starts at $79 per month.
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Activate HD Video - Log in to your Zoom account web portal. Go to "Settings / In Meeting (advanced)." From there turn on "Group HD Video." This will enable 720P HD for Pro accounts or 1080P HD for Business/Enterprise accounts. Both are broadcast quality settings but 1080P is best.
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Staging - Choose a space with a nice backdrop, perhaps some added plants or props to look interesting. Consider whether your presenters will be seated or standing. Also try to find a space that is reasonably quiet, devoid of traffic, and appliances such as refrigerators.
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Lighting - Ambient room lighting is typically insufficient for television quality. Professional key and fill lighting fixtures with soft box attachments produce flattering soft light that makes your presenters look great on camera.
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Cameras - It goes without saying; studio cameras are a must to get a professional look. We recommend at least two cameras to provide seamless switching between close-up and wider group shots.
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Switcher - A broadcast switcher provides clean cuts between cameras, adds titles, integrates PowerPoint slides, creates side-by-side split screen layouts, and adds transitions to your production.
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Audio - Professional sound makes all the difference in a broadcast. Choose between clip-on, handheld, podium, desktop, or headset styles. Wireless mics are often preferred but requires an experienced audio engineer to set up correctly.
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Encoder / Recorder - This device facilitates insertion of the program feed into the Zoom platform. Without this, all you have available is your webcam.
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Crew - Beyond the gear itself you need experience professionals to make everything look and sound its best. Moreover, professionals make sure everything is working reliably and take the stress off oy your team so that your focus is on the presentation.
