10 Camera Blunders Sabotaging Your Video Interviews

By Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter

Job interviews have undergone a transformation, with virtual platforms becoming the new norm. While this offers convenience, it also introduces a whole new set of challenges when it comes to making a strong impression. It’s no longer just about what you say, but how you appear and present yourself through the lens of a camera. Many qualified people unknowingly sabotage their chances by making easily correctable visual mistakes. Don’t let your camera presence be the reason you miss out on your dream job. Here are 10 common, easy-to-correct mistakes people make during on-camera interviews, focusing purely on appearance, body language, and presentation style, not content.

1. The “Looking Up Your Nose” Angle

Your camera should ideally be at eye level. Placing your laptop on a low desk forces the camera to look up at you, creating an unflattering angle and potentially highlighting your ceiling rather than your face.

• The Fix: Stack books, use a laptop stand, or adjust your chair height until your camera lens is directly level with your eyes. This creates a more professional and engaging perspective.

2. The “Dark Cave” Lighting

Poor lighting can make you look shadowy, tired, or even sinister. Facing away from a window, or relying on dim overhead room lights, can cast harsh shadows and obscure your features.

• The Fix: Position yourself facing a natural light source, like a window, if possible. If not, use a ring light, desk lamp, or even a couple of lamps positioned behind your monitor, pointed at your face, not behind you. Aim for soft, even illumination that eliminates shadows.

3. The “Busy Background” Distraction

A cluttered bedroom, an unmade bed, or a family photo collage can divert your interviewer’s attention from you and your answers. Your background speaks volumes about your professionalism.

• The Fix: Opt for a plain, neutral background. A blank wall, a tidy bookshelf (with appropriate items), or a clean home office setup works best. If using a virtual background, ensure it’s professional, static, and doesn’t glitch.

4. The “Floating Head” or “Too Far Away” Framing

Being too close to the camera can be intimidating, while being too far away makes it hard for interviewers to read your expressions and body language.

• The Fix: Aim for a shot that includes your head and shoulders, with a little bit of space above your head. This “bust shot” allows for good eye contact and captures some of your natural hand gestures without being distracting.

5. The “No Eye Contact” Gaze

It’s natural to look at your interviewer’s face on your screen, but to them, it looks like you’re looking down or away. Consistent direct eye contact conveys confidence and engagement.

• The Fix: Train yourself to look directly into your webcam lens as much as possible, especially when speaking. If you need to glance at notes, make it brief. You can also drag the interviewer’s video feed as close to your camera lens as possible.

6. The “Slouching Silhouette” Posture

Even if you’re dressed professionally, poor posture can convey disinterest, lethargy, or a lack of confidence. Slouching makes you appear less energetic and less engaged.

• The Fix: Sit up straight with your shoulders back and chest open. Imagine a string pulling your head gently towards the ceiling. Maintaining good posture not only looks better but can also make you feel more confident.

7. The “Distracting Fidgeter” Syndrome

Jiggling your leg, tapping your fingers, playing with your hair, or swaying in your chair can be incredibly distracting to an interviewer, even if you’re unaware you’re doing it.

• The Fix: Be mindful of your movements. Before the interview, take a moment to settle yourself. Place your hands gently on your lap or desk. Channel nervous energy into subtle, purposeful gestures when speaking, rather than aimless fidgeting.

8. The “Underdressed from the Waist Down” Trap

While only your upper half is visible, the illusion of being fully prepared can impact your mindset. Plus, unexpected situations (like needing to stand up) can expose your secret.

• The Fix: Dress professionally from head to toe. This isn’t just about appearances; it puts you in the right headspace and ensures you’re prepared for any unexpected movement during the interview.

9. The “Ghostly Glare” or “Shiny Forehead”

Harsh overhead lights or a lack of proper face powder can leave you with an undesirable glare on your forehead, nose, or cheekbones, making you look sweaty or unprepared.

• The Fix: Adjust your lighting to be more diffused and even. For those prone to shine, a quick dab of translucent powder (even for men) can make a significant difference in how you appear on camera.

10. The “Static Statue” vs. “Overly Animated” Balance

Some candidates remain unnervingly still, appearing stiff and unnatural. Others gesticulate wildly, making them look scattered or uncomposed. Both extremes are unhelpful.

• The Fix: Aim for natural, expressive communication. Use subtle hand gestures to emphasize points, smile genuinely, and nod to show engagement. Practice in front of a mirror or record yourself to find a balanced, confident presentation style that feels authentic.

A successful virtual interview goes beyond well-rehearsed answers; it’s a performance where visual cues play a critical role. By addressing these 10 easy-to-correct mistakes, you can ensure your on-camera presence is as polished and professional as your qualifications, significantly boosting your chances of landing that coveted job offer.

Ⓒ The Big Game Hunter, Inc., Asheville, NC 2025  

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