It’s not just you - we all look terrible on webcams. Here are five easy tips to look your best while you’re Skyping someone far, far away.

1. What’s behind you?

Give some thought to what your Skype caller will see behind you when you’re video-chatting, especially if it’s not your Aunt Joy in Canada but a job-related call. Just because you can’t see the bong on the bookshelf behind you...

2. Lights, camera, action!

What kind of light is in the room? Natural light is best, so Skype during the day if possible. If it’s after dark and you’re using a lamp, make sure it’s behind the webcam – illuminating your face. If it’s behind your chair, your face will be shrouded in darkness. Stay away from harsh fluorescent lights if you’re worried about highlighting wrinkles.

3. Keep it natural.

Admit it; you’ve put on make-up especially for a Skype call. The rule-of-thumb here is not attempt to define your face with dark kohl eyes, heavy blusher and gothic lips because the camera puts on 10kgs and all that. Rather lighten things up; use neutral eye-shadow and with lashings of mascara that opens up your face.

4. What to wear?

It depends on who you’re video-calling. Solid colours look best on camera. Avoid tops with deep scooped necklines in case of a wardrobe malfunction, and any material that’s very shiny, you’ll look like a disco ball. Should you knock the webcam to the floor, and you’re wearing a skirt... be prepared.

5. It’s all in the eyes.

You want to position your webcam at eye-level. Any higher, and your forehead will look enormous. Any lower, and those double chins will get plenty of airtime. It’s tempting, but don’t watch yourself when you Skype, and don’t try maintain eye contact by looking into the other video-caller’s eyes – you’ll look like you’re talking to your wall. Look into the webcam!