Should I get a new webcam?

[Homunculus150]

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Hello,

Recently had my first interview and it went well but there was one thing that bugged me. Despite having spent a good amount of time getting dressed for the interview (actually had pants and shoes on believe it or not), my laptop's built-in webcam has a pretty limited FOV and could not really capture anything beyond my face. I doubt this hurt me or anything but I was wondering if it would be worth it to buy a dedicated webcam for future interviews so that more of me is visible.

If so, I'd love to hear some recommendations!

 

[PapaGuava]

Most external webcams are not that expesnive especially if you aren’t planning on doing any high-definition streaming. It’s fairly early in the cycle so I’d grab one if you want better quality.

 

[deleted1053887]

I took all the money saved from travelling to out of state interviews and invested it in a good logitech c615 webcam. I believe the c920 is the best out of the logitech webcams, but it's been sold out since the pandemic started.

 

[Blueprint Med School]

I think it's definitely worth investing in a decent camera. While I'm sure adcoms are instructed to try and avoid judging applicants based on their webcam, having a clearer image and being able to see your upper body just looks better and that will implicitly affect how you're seen.

Kevin W, MCAT Tutor
Med School Tutors

 

[yokiguz]

Also going to chime in. Lighting makes 10X the difference a camera does. Focus on getting good lighting. If you still aren't happy then get a new camera.

EDIT: Facing a window/the sun usually is a good start. If that's not possible you can find some cheap lighting setups on amazon.