Lighting and Camera Tips for Better Video Chats

September 6, 2026 by the Monkey App Pro team

Quick answer

Good video chats are mostly about setup, a friendly opener and the confidence to move on when a conversation is not working.

Below we cover lighting and camera tips for better video chats in detail: what it means, how it works in practice, what to watch out for, and what to do next. Menus in Monkey change between versions, so if a button has moved, look for it under your profile or settings.

Start with the setup

• Face a window or lamp so light falls on your face, not behind you.
• Hold the phone at eye level and keep a tidy, neutral background.
• Use earphones in noisy places so you can hear and be heard.
• Check your frame for personal details before you start.

Openers and topics that work

• “Quick question: pineapple on pizza, yes or no?”
• “What’s the weather like where you are?”
• “If you could teleport anywhere for one day, where would you go?”
• “What’s a hobby you got into recently?”
• “Do you have a go-to comfort food?”
• “What’s something you’re looking forward to?”
• “Hey! What’s the best thing that happened to you this week?”

Keeping it going

Ask open questions, react to what the other person says, and share a little about yourself in return without giving away identifying details. If the conversation stalls, a light game such as two truths and a lie or would you rather can restart it. If it still feels flat, it is fine to say goodbye and move on.

Boundaries are part of good conversation

Good chats feel comfortable for both people. If someone asks for personal details, wants you to switch apps, or steers things somewhere you do not like, skip. Being polite never requires staying in a conversation that feels wrong.

Frequently asked questions