Webcam Eye Contact
How can we make eye contact over the web?
When collaborating with individuals across the globe, we lose a part of our humanity. We cease to be people and become pictures on a screen. To rehumanize our interactions, we can take several steps. One approach is to ensure that we have a high quality webcam and microphone. This not only helps others recognize us as human, but also enhances our perceived credibility. [1]
As part of rehumanizing ourselves, we should also consider how we can restore one of the most important aspects of human conversation: eye contact. Apple has invested significant effort in addressing this through "FaceTime Eye Contact". Unfortunately, this software-based implementation has limitations, and nothing quite matches a hardware solution. To this end, I designed a foldable telescoping webcam mount.
Since my computer monitor is mounted on a monitor arm, I decided to reuse the VESA mounting interface. Using standoffs, I attached the webcam mount through the same screw holes that connect to the VESA interface.
Here is how it looks in the stowed position:
The webcam can still be used from the stowed position, though it is not at the optimal angle. For quick, impromptu calls, this configuration is sufficient. Since my monitor is on an arm, I can also adjust the monitor position to improve the angle. However, when I want to truly focus on the conversation, I can deploy the full extension.
Using this setup, I can align the webcam perfectly with my eyes. The individual I am conversing with appears in the center of my screen, and I am looking directly at them through the camera. You'll also notice the presence of a fill light, which I use to eliminate shadows in the image captured by the webcam.
Overall, I am very satisfied with this solution. The angle is ideal, and the audio quality is excellent.
If you're interested in building something like this for yourself, you can download the FreeCAD design files:
| [1] | Walter-Terrill, R., Ongchoco, J. D. K., & Scholl, B. J. (2025). Tinny voices, big consequences: Microphone quality alters perceptions of attractiveness, intelligence, credibility, and hireability. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). |