Tech Help
Scroll down for Zoom tips and troubleshooting, as well as advice on how to best to record yourselves or perform live in eFlute Sessions
ZOOM TECH HELP
Website: www.zoom.com
You don’t need a Zoom account in order to join us as a participant – you just need a link and a password which we provide. However, we recommend downloading the Zoom Workplace App as it will enhance your experience. It offers higher quality audio/visual quality, more features, and better stability. It’s quick, easy and free via the link above.
Zoom works on phones and tablets but we recommend using a desktop or laptop for eFlute sessions where possible, this is so you will have a good view of any screen sharing.
If you would ever like to play or perform at any point, you need to have ‘Original Sound for Musicians’ ON
This is usually found in the top right corner of the screen or in Audio Settings. If you need any help with this, please get in touch and we’ll walk you through it. It’s easy when you know how!
** As a general rule, stay close to your device when speaking, and move further back when playing the flute **
TROUBLESHOOTING ZOOM and COMPUTER
If using the recommended ‘Workplace Zoom App’, it may need updating
Likewise, your computer might need updating (if so, it will often also require a restart)
TROUBLESHOOTING WIFI CONNECTION
No online music experience will be enhanced by better equipment unless the internet connection is good
If you’re having WiFi issues, move as close to the router as you can (you can even plug your laptop into the router with an ethernet cable if it’s still sketchy)
A classic but often a solution… switch your router off and on again!
Where possible, disable other devices using wifi in your home as this strengthens the overall signal
Have you run out of bandwidth?
Recording a Video: Quick Filming Guide
iPhones and Smart Phones have come a long way and now produce excellent video/audio quality
Before You Start Filming
Clean your camera lens
Film horizontally
Record in 1080p or 4K where possible
Turn on Airplane Mode to avoid interruptions
Check you have enough storage and battery before you begin
Audio Tips
Your phone’s microphone picks up more background noise than you might think, so choose a quiet location where you won't be interrupted.
Film somewhere quiet. Don’t film near traffic, loud conversations or background noise.
Use a little tripod or phone stand whenever possible - they’re worth investing in (not expensive!) and encourage good posture
Don’t play too close to the phone/recording device - check levels with a test first.
Play low/high/loud/quiet notesUse the rear (back) camera for the best video quality.
If you want it to look Pro as well….
Lighting
Natural light is always the best option, try to film near a window whenever possible.
Position yourself so the light is in front of you, not behind you.
Remember: You don't need expensive equipment or years of experience to create a good video. Good lighting, clear audio and a steady camera will make a big difference.
Sharing Your File
YouTube: The easiest way to send eFlute your video is by downloading it straight onto YouTube yourself and sending us the link (select ‘unlisted’ so as to keep private) - we appreciate this where possible because it saves us downloading it.
WhatsApp: You can send it to us via WhatsApp. If you send as a video, the file will be compressed but still reasonable quality. If you’d like to keep the quality higher, send as a ‘Document’ instead
WeTransfer: Very easy and free. Visit wetransfer.com and it’s self explanatory - just send to us at eflutenet@gmail.com