On Zoom, "changing the camera size" primarily refers to adjusting the aspect ratio of your video feed, which dictates its shape and how it fits within the viewing window. Zoom provides options to select between a standard 4:3 aspect ratio or a widescreen 16:9 High Definition (HD) aspect ratio to optimize your video appearance.
Understanding Camera Size and Aspect Ratios on Zoom
When you change your "camera size" on Zoom, you're essentially choosing between two primary video aspect ratios:
- Original Ratio (4:3): This is a more traditional, squarer video format often found in older webcams or for a classic look. It's usually the default if your camera or network conditions don't support higher resolutions smoothly.
- HD (16:9): This is a widescreen format, standard for modern displays and video content, providing a more cinematic and immersive look. It often comes with higher resolution (e.g., 720p or 1080p, depending on your camera and subscription).
Selecting between these options influences how your video feed is cropped or displayed within the Zoom meeting.
Adjusting Your Camera's Aspect Ratio in Zoom
You can change your video's aspect ratio and other camera settings both before joining a meeting and while in a meeting.
Steps to Change Video Settings Before a Meeting
- Open Zoom Desktop Client: Launch the Zoom application on your computer.
- Access Settings: Click on the gear icon (⚙️) located in the top-right corner, which takes you to the Zoom settings menu.
- Navigate to Video Settings: In the left-hand panel of the settings window, click on "Video".
- Select Your Camera: Under the "Camera" section, you can select the camera you want Zoom to use if you have multiple cameras connected.
- Adjust Camera Settings: Look for the "Camera settings" section. Here, you will find the crucial options for your video's appearance:
- Select Original Ratio (usually a 4:3 aspect ratio): Choose this for a more square video feed.
- Select HD (usually 16:9 aspect ratio): Choose this for a widescreen, high-definition video feed.
- You can also select Mirror my video, which will horizontally flip your video, making your self-view appear as if you're looking in a mirror.
Steps to Change Video Settings During a Meeting
- Locate Video Controls: In the meeting toolbar at the bottom of your Zoom window, find the "Stop Video" button.
- Open Video Settings: Click the up arrow (⬆️) next to "Stop Video."
- Access Settings: From the pop-up menu, select "Video Settings..." This will open the Video settings tab directly.
- Adjust Settings: Follow steps 4 and 5 from the "Before a Meeting" instructions to change your camera, aspect ratio (Original Ratio or HD), and mirror settings.
Choosing the Right Aspect Ratio
The best aspect ratio depends on your camera, internet connection, and desired video quality.
| Setting | Aspect Ratio | Typical Use Case | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original Ratio | 4:3 | Older webcams, lower bandwidth connections. | Less data consumption, good for basic video calls. | May appear less modern or "cinematic." |
| HD | 16:9 | Modern webcams, higher quality streaming, professional setups. | Widescreen view, often higher resolution and clarity. | Requires more bandwidth, may strain older computers or slow connections. |
Other Related Video Settings
Beyond just the aspect ratio, the "Camera settings" section also offers another important option:
- Mirror my video: This feature horizontally flips your video feed for your own view. It makes your self-view appear more natural, like looking into a mirror. However, other participants in the meeting will always see your un-mirrored, actual video feed. This setting does not affect how others see you, only your personal preview.
Additionally, Zoom allows you to select the camera you want to use if you have multiple cameras connected to your device (e.g., built-in webcam, external USB camera, virtual camera). This selection is made in the "Camera" dropdown menu within the Video settings.
