The No-Stress Guide to Setting Up Your Phone or Tablet for Video Chats

Video calling has quickly become an important part of digital communication. The 2020 pandemic exploded this portion of the industry and made it a necessity to learn how to do it. But if you're not particularly tech-savvy, the idea of using a smartphone or tablet for video chats might feel overwhelming. 

We’ve written this guide to help you improve your video chatting skills and walk you through everything you need to know. By the end, you will be complimented on how great your video call looks and sounds. Feel confident, connected, and stress-free the next time you are video chatting with friends, family, or co-workers. 

The "Video Call Checklist"

Before getting into the call, run through your own personalized checklist so you do not run into any mishaps. These can make a huge difference in how smoothly your call goes. 

• Is your device fully charged or plugged in? Nothing ends a good conversation like a dead battery.

• Is your Wi-Fi signal strong where you're sitting? Move closer to your router if needed or consider a Wi-Fi extender.

• Do you have your glasses and hearing aids nearby? These tools help you stay engaged without struggling.

• Do you know what app you're using? Zoom, FaceTime, WhatsApp, and Skype are common options.

• Have you received the link or know how to call the person? Keep this handy before the call begins.

• Is your app up to date? Older versions may not work as well or have bugs.

• Is your camera lens clean? A simple wipe with a soft cloth can fix blurry video fast.

Choose a Good Background

Where you make your call makes all the difference in the world in how you present yourself on camera. You can really impress people with a professional and quality setup. 

You can have high-quality lighting by facing a natural light source. The most available location is to face a window. It’s important not to have a bright light behind your head because that will cause the camera to shift to a darker exposure setting to adjust for the extra light. You will be washed out. If you don’t have a window, you can use artificial lighting behind your phone, but nothing too bright.

Prop It Up: How to Hold Your Phone or Tablet

Where you set up your camera is key. Use a small tripod, a phone stand, or stack a few books to get your camera at eye level. This helps you avoid unflattering angles (no more double-chin shots or awkward nose-up views).

Sit close enough for your voice to carry, but not so close that your face fills the entire screen: Make sure your head and shoulders are centered in the frame.

The background should also be presentable. Keep clutter away from the view and have aesthetically friendly colors. Plants, wall decor, or other eye-catching visuals are great for this!

Sound and Screen Tips

The following can make or break your audio settings for you and the person you are calling. 

• Volume: Turn up the volume before the call starts. Do a quick test with music or a video to make sure you can hear.

• Mute Button: Learn where the mute and unmute buttons are in your app. Muting can help if there’s background noise.

• Flip the Camera: If you want to show someone your garden or pet, use the flip camera button to switch from front-facing to rear camera.

• Use Headphones: If you have earbuds or headphones with a microphone, use them for better sound quality and less echo.

• Speak clearly and at a normal pace. Especially if someone on the other end has hearing difficulties.

Quick Guides to the Most Popular Video Calling Apps

There are tons of video calling apps out there, but let’s be real—most people stick to just a handful. Knowing the basics for each will save you from that awkward last-minute scramble when someone says, “Let’s jump on a quick video call.”

Zoom

This one’s huge for work meetings, family reunions, and virtual happy hours.

• To join a call: Open the app, click “Join a Meeting,” and enter the Meeting ID and password your host gave you.

• To host a call: Log in, hit “New Meeting,” and send your friends or coworkers the meeting link and passcode.

• Bonus Tip: Use “Gallery View” to see everyone at once (great for big groups).

FaceTime (Apple Devices Only)

Perfect for casual chats if everyone in the group has an iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

• To start a call: Open the FaceTime app, tap the “+” icon, and select your contact.

• Good to Know: You can do one-on-one or group calls (up to 32 people), but it won’t work with Android users.

WhatsApp Video Calling

Great for international calls, especially if you already text with someone on WhatsApp.

• To start a call: Open your chat with the person, tap the camera icon at the top right.

• For Group Calls: Start a group chat first, then hit the video icon.

Google Meet

Solid option for Android users and anyone with a Gmail account.

• To join a call: Click the Google Meet link someone sent you—no app needed if you’re on a computer.

• To start a call: Open the Google Meet app or go to meet.google.com and click “New Meeting.”

Skype

An old favorite that still works well for international calls and folks who’ve used it for years.

• To make a call: Open the app, find your contact, and hit the video camera icon.

• Why use it: Skype’s good for people who don’t want to download something new.

Quick Tips for Any App:

• Test your mic and camera before the call starts.

• If you’re not sure what app to use, ask the other person what they prefer.

• Keep your software updated—older versions can glitch during calls.

• Don’t forget: Mute yourself if your dog starts barking or if you’re eating chips (trust us on that one).

Troubleshooting Common Video Call Problems (And How to Fix Them Fast)

Glitches happen— even to tech pros. The good news? Most video call problems have quick and easy fixes. Here’s how to troubleshoot the most common issues without breaking a sweat:

• No Sound?
  First, check your device volume. On iPhones, flip the mute switch on the side. On Android, make sure your media volume (not just ringtone) is up. Still no luck? Try unplugging your headphones or switching to speaker mode.

• Blurry or Dark Video?
  Wipe your camera lens with a soft cloth (yes, smudges happen). Then, check your lighting. Face a window or add a small lamp behind your camera. Avoid sitting with a bright window behind you—unless you want to look like a shadowy mystery guest.

• Wi-Fi Acting Up?
  If your video keeps freezing or dropping, move closer to your router. Still glitchy? Try resetting your router by unplugging it for about 10 seconds, then plugging it back in. If all else fails, switch to mobile data (just watch your data limits!).

• Can’t Connect to the Call?
  Double-check the meeting link, Meeting ID, or contact number. Make sure you’re using the right app and that it’s updated. If you’re still stuck, reach out to the person hosting the call—they may need to resend the invite.

• Screen Frozen or App Crashing?
  Close the app completely—not just minimize it—and reopen it. On most phones, you can swipe up or use your recent apps menu to fully shut it down. If that doesn’t work, restart your device.

• If the Call Drops Mid-Conversation: Don’t panic—wait a minute to see if the other person calls you back. If not, reopen the app and try calling them. Check your Wi-Fi connection or switch to mobile data if needed.

Keep a notepad nearby to write down any fixes that worked, so you can use them next time.

Protect Your Privacy While Video Calling

A few simple steps can keep your personal info safe:

• Check what’s visible behind you—move anything with personal details like mail, calendars, or family photos.

• Avoid discussing sensitive topics like passwords, banking info, or your home address while on calls.

• If you’re in a shared space, use headphones to keep the conversation private.

When In Doubt… Practice First!

If you’re nervous, do a short test call with a friend or family member. Try out the mute button, adjust your camera, and practice logging in before your real call starts. A little practice now saves a lot of stress later.